bipinchandra
Mar 30, 2008, 08:31 PM
The original white color of teeth get yellow over the years.Is there method available to bring them to white?
jrebel7
Mar 30, 2008, 09:11 PM
There are several methods to accomplish the whitening of teeth. If you check with your dentist, he/she can offer several ways, at different price levels. There are numerous across the counter products available. There are some products to stay away from as they will make teeth appear splotchy.
The dental results to having teeth whitened are great in appearance. It is a little pricey, does not last very long since cola, even vegetables with strong color, coffee, tea, etc. restain the teeth. Also some products can make your gums really sensitive.
Your best choice I believe would be to just consult with your dentist. He/she might even suggest one of the over the counter products if price is an issue for you. The processes with the dentists are not as costly as they use to be.
jillianleab
Mar 30, 2008, 09:37 PM
jrebel7 is correct. There are in-office whitening procedures that many dentists (and some orthodontists) offer, as well as over-the-counter products. The procedures done in an office will generally yield better, faster results, but are also the most costly.
A common method for whitening is the use of Crest Whitestrips, and, having used them myself, they work pretty well. They have also gone down in price in recent years, and store brand versions can be found for even less. You may experience "splotchy" results as mentioned, but this is generally because different parts of your teeth whiten faster than others; the effect will go away on it's own and lessen with additional use of the product (usually).
Two tips, if you decide to whiten (at home or in office):
1. Brush for a week or more in advance with a toothpaste for sensitive teeth (like Sensodyne), as the bleaching solution might cause tooth or gum sensitivity. This will help reduce that possibility.
2. When using whitening products, DO NOT use additional fluoride! When you whiten, your teeth "open up" so to speak, and when you use fluoride, it gets "into" your teeth. The problem? Fluoride is brown! So all that whitening you do is for nothing! I just learned this from my dentist on my most recent visit; it explains why my whitening attempts before had failed!
Once you've whitened and you're happy with your results, brush with a whitening toothpaste everyday to maintain the results. These toothpastes remove surface stains, so if you drink coffee or tea, it will help (not prevent, but help) ward off staining.