Fifty percent of Americans are likely to remember a person’s smile over any other visual trait after a first meeting. That’s great news, especially for the Generation Y demographic, as modern dental trends are focusing on naturalism over idealism. That means more people are opting for cosmetic dentistry procedures that won’t break the bank. And professional teeth whitening happens to be the most popular and commonly requested procedure. A simple call can get ensure your Manhattan teeth whitening works around your schedule and for your specific needs. But there are some things you should know about the procedure before diving in headfirst.
Do Whitening Toothpaste and Over-the-Counter Whitening Kits Work?
Teeth whitening is all the rage in the retail sector, and major brands of toothpaste and whitening kits make huge promises. But do they really work? In the event of toothpaste, not so much. Even those with beads or “bleaching aids” only clean surface stains. So while the results may seem lighter due to the minimal stain removal, the tooth color doesn’t actually change permanently. Store shelf box kits work for some but not for everyone. The chemical concentration may be too low to lift serious stains, but most people keep the strips on far too long or reapply too often… which can lead to tissue damage and weakened enamel.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe for Everyone?
Teeth whitening has become an instant sensation for countless Americans, and kids love to emulate their peers and parents. Many store kits make huge claims that their products are safe enough for all or most ages, but is that the truth? Most home kit concentrations contain up to 13% peroxide. The higher the concentration, the more likely it can harm your children. The final verdict of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) is that whitening strips should not be used on anyone under the age of 15. But professional whitening may potentially be safe from age ten and above.
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
The lifespan of whitening is dependent on the procedure itself as well as individual post-procedure care. Avoiding vices that stain such as cigarettes, coffee, and red wine can extend the lifespan. Store kits are usually weak and may last a month or two if they work at all. Professional options, however, generally last between six months and a couple years. Although in some cases, professional teeth whitening has been recorded as lasting up to a decade.
Does Professional Teeth Whitening Damage or Effect Existing Dental Materials?
The last thing anyone wants is a short lifespan of expensive dental work. Fortunately, restorative materials such as porcelain veneers, crowns, composite fillings, and bridgework aren’t affected or harmed by professional whitening agents. However, the adhesive and bond strength between the materials and enamel may be weakened. Always check with your dentist prior to the procedure.
Is Manhattan Teeth Whitening Right for You?
The only way to know for sure whether professional teeth whitening is the right choice for your needs is to call and arrange a consultation. But professional whitening is safe and effective for most people. It’s customized to each patient’s needs and desires. It’s overseen by a consummate professional. And it only takes an hour to brighten your teeth ten shades or more. Give us a call today so we can give you something to smile about.
