Tooth whitening
Tooth whitening is the process of restoring a brilliant white shine to discoloured teeth. Very few people are lucky enough to have natural bright white teeth; everyday foods and drink stain them, turning our teeth a yellow-white colour. Tea, coffee, red wine and blackcurrant are the biggest offenders, while smoking and not getting rid of tartar in our mouth through proper brushing just accelerates the discoloration process.
Professional tooth whitening is performed by a dentist. They will use a bleaching agent containing the active ingredient hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. When applied to the teeth, the active ingredient interacts with the stain, releasing oxygen into the tooth enamel, making the teeth appear lighter and less stained. The procedure itself is quick, but two or three trips to the dentist will be required beforehand so a protective guard can be moulded to the shape of your gums. This prevents the bleaching agent from damaging the gum's soft tissue.
'Power Whitening', where a laser is used to activate a bleaching ingredient pasted onto your teeth, is becoming an increasingly popular tooth whitening alternative. The procedure is fast and effective, and is readily administered in private dental and cosmetic enhancement practices.
Home tooth whitening kits are available if you wish to whiten your teeth yourself. The active ingredient in these kits is generally the same as in professional tooth whitening products.
For more information on tooth whitening please use the resources on our site.