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Panorama Dental Care

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

everything you need to know about teeth whitening

What Is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening or bleaching is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves removing stains and discoloration from the surface of your teeth to achieve a brighter and whiter smile. The bleaching agent chemically breaks down the stain (otherwise known as a chromogen). The most common active ingredient in whitening products are  hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. Carbamide peroxide actually breaks down in contact with water to release hydrogen peroxide, so chemically the main whitening agent in all products is hydrogen peroxide.

 

There are several methods of teeth whitening, including in-office treatments, at-home kits, and over-the-counter products. It is important to talk to your dentist before undergoing any teeth whitening treatment to find the method that it is safe and appropriate for you. Some individuals may experience sensitivity or discomfort during or after the treatment, and there may be risks associated with the procedure, such as gum irritation or damage to dental restorations.

 

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

The effectiveness of teeth whitening treatments will vary based on the severity of the discoloration and the type of staining that is present. Certain types of staining, such as those caused by certain medications or medical conditions, may not respond to teeth whitening treatments. In ideal conditions, over the counter products can improve tooth value 1 to 2 shades, and more for professionally applied products.

It is difficult to foretell how long the whitening will last. It depends on the original severity of the stain, and how often they re-expose their teeth to food or beverages which are known to stain teeth. If someone was to avoid items like coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking; whiter teeth could persist for up to a year.

 

snow teeth whitening
teeth whitening at home

How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?

The cost of teeth whitening will vary based on the type of treatment, and the product being used. Most dental insurance plans will not cover the cost of cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening. 

 

Teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to remove stains and discoloration from your teeth and improve the appearance of your smile. If you are considering teeth whitening, it is important to talk to your dentist to determine if it is the right solution for you and to understand the benefits and risks of the procedure.