Understanding Teeth Whitening in Stoke-on-Trent
Having white and bright teeth can do wonders for your confidence and self-esteem. With the popularity of teeth whitening increasing, many residents of Stoke-on-Trent are looking into ways they can whiten their teeth right at home.
What Causes Teeth to Become Discolored?
Over time, your teeth can become stained and discolored from food and drinks, smoking, and poor oral hygiene. Things like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries can cause stubborn surface stains on your enamel. Additionally, certain medications can cause chemical discoloration in your teeth. A buildup of tartar and calculus can also give your teeth a yellowish appearance.
Professional In-Office Whitening Versus At-Home Whitening
Residents of Stoke-on-Trent have two main options when it comes to whitening their teeth - professional whitening done in a dentist's office or at-home whitening using over-the-counter products. In-office whitening provides the fastest and most dramatic results, but it is also the most expensive option. During an in-office treatment, your dentist will use a high-concentration peroxide gel along with heat and/or light to whiten your teeth quickly.
At-home whiteners from your local pharmacy contain low concentrations of whitening ingredients to gently lift stains from your enamel over time. With proper use, you can gradually whiten your teeth over a couple weeks with whitening toothpastes, strips, rinses, and tray kits.
What to Consider Before Whitening Your Teeth
Before moving forward with teeth whitening, there are a few things you should consider first:
- Consult your dentist, especially if you have sensitive teeth, dental work like fillings or crowns, or gum disease
- Whitening treatments may not produce results if you have stain-resistant enamel genetics
- Artificial teeth like dentures, crowns, veneers cannot be whitened
- Be patient - gradually lighten over time for a natural look
- Use products as directed to avoid irritated gums and increased sensitivity
Top At-Home Whitening Products Available in Stoke-on-Trent
For residents looking for affordable at-home teeth whitening options in Stoke-on-Trent, there are many over-the-counter products to consider from brands like Crest, Colgate, Go Smile, and more. Here are some top-rated DIY methods and products you can find locally.
Whitening Toothpastes
Whitening toothpastes like Crest 3D White and Arm & Hammer Advance White contain gentle cleaning and polishing ingredients to buff away surface stains overtime with regular brushing. While results are modest compared to other methods, toothpastes are an easy way to maintain a brighter smile after using a different whitening treatment. Check your local supermarket or pharmacy in Stoke-on-Trent for a variety of whitening toothpaste choices.
Whitening Rinses and Mouthwashes
Whitening mouthwashes can remove some pigmentation and slowly lighten teeth with consistent use. Most rinses utilize ingredients like hydrogen peroxide for bleaching. Popular over-the-counter options from Listernet, Colgate, Crest, and SmartMouth provide noticeable lightening over a couple weeks when used daily. You can find these products at local pharmacies and markets across Stoke-on-Trent.
Whitening Strips
Whitening strips that adhere directly to your teeth are a popular choice because they are easy to use and provide reliable results. Brands like Crest and Colgate offer disposable strips that use peroxide gel to lift deep stains from the tooth enamel. When used correctly for the length of treatment, you can see several shades of lightening. Look for whitening strips from leading brands at local pharmacies in Stoke-on-Trent.
Whitening Trays and Gels
Whitening trays allow you to customize the whitening process with dental-grade peroxide gels to brighten your smile from home. This includes products like Go Smile and SmartSmile that provide custom-fitted trays and syringes of high-concentration whitening serum. Using the trays and gel together for just 15-30 minutes a day leaves you with dramatically whiter teeth compared to other over-the-counter methods. While the upfront cost is more, the results make it worth considering.
Lifestyle Habits For Maintaining White Teeth in Stoke-on-Trent
While using at-home teeth whitening products can give you a brighter smile, maintaining your white smile for the long-term relies on practicing good oral hygiene habits daily. Here are some tips for keeping your teeth sparkling white once you have finished the whitening process:
Brush Teeth Twice Daily
Be sure to brush your teeth when you wake up in the morning and before going to bed at night. Regular brushing removes stains and buildup that can discolor teeth again after whitening treatments. Carefully brush along the gumlines as well to target plaque accumulation.
Floss Between Teeth Daily
Flossing gets rid of food debris trapped between teeth that can lead to new stains. Take the time to floss each tooth thoroughly once per day to prevent discoloration in hard-to-reach places. Consistent flossing keeps your brighter smile intact.
Rinse With Water After Eating/Drinking
Whenever you consume staining foods and drinks like coffee, wine, tomato sauce, dark sodas, etc., take a moment to swish water around your mouth. This prevents staining molecules from setting on enamel and maintains your white teeth.
Get Regular Dental Cleanings
See your local dentist in Stoke-on-Trent for a cleaning every six months. During cleanings, hardened tartar and stains get removed from above and below the gumline. Professional removal of unhealthy buildup keeps teeth whiter between whitening treatments.
Limit Staining Foods/Drinks
Be mindful of how often you consume foods and beverages that can stain your teeth again. Things like berries, tomato sauce, soy sauce, red wine, coffee, and dark sodas will restain your bright smile if consumed too often. Moderate your intake to protect your investment.
Following healthy home care habits keeps your smile glowing after undergoing teeth whitening. Contact local dentists in Stoke-on-Trent if you need help developing better oral hygiene practices.
FAQs
What is the quickest way to whiten your teeth at home?
The fastest at-home teeth whitening uses custom dental trays with strong whitening gel. Products like Go Smile and Opalescence Go pre-fill trays that fit your teeth exactly to intensify the whitening process. Applying the trays for just 15-30 minutes daily provides dramatic results within a week or two.
Is activated charcoal good for teeth whitening?
Activated charcoal has recently gained popularity for whitening teeth. Supporters claim it lifts stains by absorbing plaque and tartar. However, evidence shows charcoal is too abrasive for enamel and dentists do not recommend using it. The particles may damage the tooth protective layer and natural whiteness.
Can you whiten teeth with braces?
Special whitening treatments made for those with braces can improve the appearance of stained teeth with orthodontic brackets. Many braces-friendly whitening kits include custom trays that provide bleaching solution only to visible tooth surfaces. However, speak with your local dentist first before applying any new dental products.
What damages teeth and causes discoloration?
Frequent coffee, tea, soda, wine, and dark fruit consumption can stain outer enamel layers. Smoking also significantly yellows tooth color. As you age, teeth naturally dim a bit. Trauma and big dental procedures may result in grey spots. Staining bacteria, tartar buildup, and certain medications also contribute to tooth darkening over time.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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