Even though you brush your teeth after your morning coffee, you may still notice that your smile just isn’t as white as you would like it to be. Years of drinking and eating foods and beverages that stain your teeth over time can take their toll. Many people are self-conscious of their smiles and wish they could get whiter teeth. However, without knowing the pros and cons of teeth whitening in New Westminster, it is challenging to make an informed decision about whether or not it is something you would like it to undergo. In this article, our team at Artis Dental Centre provides you with information about teeth whitening to help you make the right choice for your smile.
Types of Teeth Whitening
There are two main options for teeth whitening near you: at-home teeth whitening or in-office teeth whitening. Both of these options use a bleaching agent with a peroxide base. However, the amount of bleach used differs between treatments. When you opt for at-home teeth whitening, our dentist in New Westminster will provide you with a bleaching agent that has between 3-20% peroxide, while if you opt for in-office teeth whitening, the bleaching agent will have about 15-43% peroxide. While in-office whitening treatments cost a little more, they are more effective and take less time overall to whiten your teeth to the level you want.
Pros of Teeth Whitening
The biggest benefit of teeth whitening in New Westminster is cosmetics. A smile says a lot about you. An attractive smile is one of the main things that people look for in a partner. Having a smile you are proud of boosts your confidence, which allows you to become more successful in all your endeavours.
Additionally, teeth whitening is a simple, quick, and non-invasive way to enhance your smile, making it a popular choice for many patients. When done by a dentist near you, teeth whitening is very safe and effective.
Cons of Teeth Whitening
If you choose to whiten your teeth, there are a few side effects that you should be aware of. The major side effects that teeth whitening can cause are gum irritation and tooth sensitivity.
Our dentist in New Westminster has noted that gum irritation can be caused due to poorly-fitting whitening trays and not due to the bleaching agent itself. Due to this, you must have the correct tray for your mouth structure before beginning your treatment. At Artis Dental Centre, our dentist can provide you with trays that are custom-fitted to your mouth. In most cases, tissue irritation and sensitivity will fade on their own within a few days of completing treatment.
Teeth whitening is not the right choice for everyone. It can be costly and does not work on all forms of discoloration. For this reason, it is important to consult with your dentist to see if you are a viable candidate for this cosmetic treatment.
The Bottom Line
In the majority of cases, if the instructions are followed properly and our dentist oversees the treatment, teeth whitening is safe and effective. Knowing the pros and cons of teeth whitening will help you make an informed decision about if this treatment is right for you. If you would like to learn more about teeth whitening, please contact Artis Dental Centre for a consultation today!
