Teeth Whitening Can Brighten Smiles

There are multiple methods for teeth whitening that are available today. Some are do-it-yourself kits to use at home and others are performed by a dentist in the dental office. There are lots of reasons why individuals' pearly whites became dingy or discolored. As human beings age, their tooth enamel becomes yellowed as a natural course of action. Certain substances also cause problems such as red wine, coffee, tea, smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco. Even healthy foods can cause staining such as blueberries, cranberries, and dark fruit juices. Spottiness on enamel can also be caused by taking certain types of medications.

Here are some different methods for brightening one's choppers:

- Do-it-yourself: There are a variety of ways to perform DIY whitening but a person should be certain to follow the directions carefully to avoid problems. The at-home kits are usually best for minor discoloration.
o Strips: Strips are available and can be purchased off the shelf of a local drugstore. They are made of a thin, transparent material that is coated with bleaching product.
o Toothpaste: Many toothpastes contain polishing agents or abrasive products to whiten enamel as individuals brush.
o Kits: Bleaching kits are available at the drugstore or from a dentist's office. These kits usually contain a gel, brush and trays which must be used for specific lengths of time such as half an hour. Directions must be followed to the letter or oversensitivity may occur.
- Natural home remedies: Some of the old fashioned natural home remedies may be quite helpful.
o Baking soda: This is what our forefathers used to whiten their choppers. Most people have a box of baking soda in their cupboards or fridge.
o Apples, carrots and celery: When a person can't brush his or her teeth, munching on an apple, carrot or celery can clean debris from the surfaces fairly well.
o Sugarless gum: Sugarless gum that has the American Dental Association's seal of approval can help keep surfaces tidy.
- Dental office: A dentist has an array of whitening tricks up his or her sleeve.
o Bleaching: Bleaching trays are one way to achieve a bright, white smile.
o Veneers: Veneers are coverings that slip over a tooth to give it a near perfect appearance.
o Bonding: Bonding is a cosmetic dental method to cover up flaws and discoloration.
- Prevention: Just like in all areas of life, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In order to prevent stains and discoloration:
o Brush regularly: Twice a day at a minimum
o Floss after meals: Flossing is at least as important as brushing
o Checkups: Seeing a dentist twice a year for an exam is crucial.
o Cleanings: A dental hygienist should perform a thorough cleaning twice a year.
o Avoid substances that stain: Beverages and foods that are known stain producers should be curtailed. If they are ingested, it's important to rinse the mouth or brush as soon as possible.

Teeth whitening can make a big difference in the attractiveness of a smile. There are multiple ways to achieve this.