Teeth Whitening
How teeth whitening works
Your teeth are covered with a layer of porcelain-like enamel, which give them their naturally brilliant whiteness. However, over time, the enamel breaks down, revealing the more transparent surface underneath. This, in turn allows the yellow dentin – the material that comprises the bulk of your teeth – to show through. Thus, many people seek teeth whitening to restore the whiter appearance their teeth had when their enamel was strong.
Teeth Whitening Systems
Many people are aware they can get their teeth bleached but aren't quite sure how teeth whitening works. Broadly speaking, you have two main options when it comes to teeth whitening: gel bleaching and laser teeth whitening.
Gel-based teeth bleaching systems come in two forms: high-concentration and low-concentration. These types of teeth whiteners use carbamide peroxide or a similar oxidizing agent to bleach your teeth. High-concentration teeth whitening gels are typically applied by a dentist or other dental professional, as you must take great care to confine them only to the surfaces of your teeth to avoid potential irritation and complications.
Low-concentration gels are available in teeth whitening kits, which you can purchase at your drugstore. Usually, these gels are applied via thin strips, or in mouthguard-like appliances that you wear for a specified period of time.
While gels are safe and effective, not everyone's teeth respond to bleach. Thus, your dentist can also offer you laser teeth whitening. This method still uses bleach, but adds laser-powered energy to heat the bleach and speed up its absorption.
Natural Teeth Whitening Tips
Teeth whitening toothpaste is available, both from traditional manufacturers as well as organic ones. If you want to experience subtle teeth whitening without exposing your teeth to chemicals, you should try them out and see if you get the results you're looking for.
Proponents of natural teeth whitening claim strawberries and orange peels, when left on the teeth, provide dramatic results, but these are scientifically unproven. You're best off to quit smoking, stop drinking coffee and tea, and to eat as many raw foods as possible while avoiding excessive amounts of fluoride. Supplement your regular tooth care with baking soda. This strengthens the enamel you have left, which can lead to a whiter smile.