Your smile is the first thing that people notice about you. A healthy, beautiful smile imparts a spark to your personality. However, sometimes you may suffer from tooth discoloration for several reasons. You may feel embarrassed to flaunt your smile. But fret not! Modern dentistry has been evolving tremendously using cutting-edge innovation and technology. 

The Dental Clinic Weston, MA offers a compassionate solution for teeth discoloration in the form of at-home teeth whitening trays that offer you effective, and long-lasting results.  Here is an overview of the at-home teeth whitening procedure. So read on!

What do you understand by teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening or bleaching is a common dental procedure that can aesthetically enhance the way your teeth look. It involves lightening your teeth to 2 to 3 shades lighter using concentrated chemical agents. Teeth whitening systems come in two types, which are in-office and at-home bleaching procedures. The latter teeth whitening system is increasing in popularity due to ease and convenience.

What is the principle behind the teeth whitening system?

Teeth whitening systems consist of an active bleaching agent such as carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. This active ingredient usually breaks down into tiny oxygen bubbles when in contact with water. These oxygen bubbles readily eliminate stains from the tooth surface. 

Why is teeth whitening recommended?

Your dentist may recommend teeth whitening for:

Intrinsic stains

• This is an internal discoloration of the tooth, usually due to the natural aging process. The enamel surface wears away, exposing the underlying yellowish dentin. 
• Example- Fluorosis (excess fluoridation during tooth development), or enamel hypoplasia

Extrinsic stains 

• This is external discoloration of the tooth surface due to multiple reasons, such as: 
  • High-pigmented beverages like coffee, red wine, tea, and cola. 
  • Smoking or tobacco use
  • Medications like tetracycline

How are the at-home teeth whitening trays fabricated and used?

At-home teeth whitening systems are simple and convenient, which is explained in the following steps:

Fabrication of the plastic trays

• A full mouth impression will be recorded and sent to the laboratory for fabricating thin and clear trays. 

Using the trays at home

• Brush your teeth before you use the trays to remove any food debris.
• Apply a sufficient amount of refrigerated active whitening gel on the trays and place them inside your mouth.
• You will be advised to use the trays twice a day for 30 minutes.
• However, overnight use is also suggested depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.

Virtually, when you opt for a teeth-whitening solution, you can experience moderate to substantial improvement in the brightness and whiteness of your smile.