A great smile can prove to be a valuable asset, especially when you meet someone for the first time. However, people whose teeth have brown or yellow stains are very conscious of this deficiency. This can also lead to social insecurity. One of the best treatment methods available to regain is that white perfect smile is whitening teeth. The basic method of tooth whitening is that it reverses the process of tooth discoloration, again bleaching them to reveal white enamel.

The teeth usually become darker over a period of time. This may be due to the consumption of caffeinated beverages (eg. tea, coffee and cola) or tobacco products. In addition, excessive fluoride production and use of antibiotics may also cause discoloration of teeth. However, the biggest factor contributing to the loss of whiteness is age. Teeth whitening is one of the safest and most popular procedures in cosmetic dentistry, to combat the process of discoloration. Studies indicate that approximately 96% of people who undergo this treatment experience visual benefits.

There are three options available for those considering this procedure – you can either undergo professional bleaching, try bleaching at home, or use whitening toothpaste. Of the three listed, the fastest and most effective is professional bleaching. It is also called in-office or chair-side bleaching. This usually requires two or more visits from the dentist. However, the effects are much longer lasting than any other process. However, the gums do not get harmed. After the dentist has carefully applied the bleaching agent to his teeth, he may wish to use additional heat or mild procedures to intensify the agent. The usual treatment of sitting can be from 30 minutes to an hour.

Another option that is available to you is home bleaching. You can buy the kit from any certified pharmacist or dentist. This kit usually contains hydrogen peroxide-based bleaching gel or solution. It is meant to be applied to tooth enamel. As a rule, the kit also includes a mouth guard. You are about to apply a solution or gel to the mouth guard and then follow the instructions with the tool. Overnight treatments work for a very short duration. However, if you say, it is necessary to use the kit twice a day, then the treatment can be effective for a longer period.

Whitening toothpastes work in a different way from the bleaching technique because they are not targeted towards permanent changes in the color of teeth. These usually contain polishing agents. They work to remove some dark stains, which a regular toothpaste may not effectively dislike. You should always consult your dentist before proceeding with any of these procedures – he is the best person to guide you and can advise you on the most effective treatment plan suited to your needs.