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. 

Getting a cosmetic treatment like Sculptra has its own perks, including giving you a more youthful appearance. As a person ages, skin undergoes changes too, and seeing you lose your charm to the age can be tricky. If you have opted for Sculptra body treament for the first time, the process can be overwhelming and intimidating. 

Understanding what to do and things you should avoid is important for the best results. However, remember that you should also speak to your clinic to provide you with the best solutions to prepare yourself before the treatment. 

How to prepare yourself before your treatment?

Here are a few reminders to keep in mind while preparing yourself for Sculptra treatment. 

• Think About Your Goals 

Before booking your Sculptra appointment for Sculptra, spend time thinking about what you want to achieve. Do you want to restore lost volume subtly? Define and contour specific areas like your cheeks or temples. Remember, understanding your objectives will help guide appropriate treatment. You should also discuss goals thoroughly with your provider during your consultation to make your decision easier. 

• Schedule your appointment properly by planning for the days ahead. 

Properly planning and scheduling your appointment for Sculptra is important. After the process, you might experience discomfort and swelling, which is why you might want to schedule your appointment when you can take a leave from work. Depending on the body part, the time you need to take off will vary. However, keep at least 3-4 days off so you can take a break and relax. 

• Understand the restrictions and what to avoid.

Make sure you avoid blood-thinning over-the-counter medications. These include aspirin and ibuprofen. In addition, avoid: 

• Consuming alcohol before and after 24 hours of the treatment 
• Essential fatty acids
• Garlic supplements
• Flax oil
• Vitam A and E
• Sun exposure

Also, note that you should inform your provider about any medications you are currently taking. This will help them to understand if it will cause a problem with your treatment. They might recommend Arnica gel for its bruise healing properties and also recommend if you need any medications prior to your treatment.

• Stay hydrated and get sufficient sleep. 

You would want to stay relaxed for your treatment. Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Additionally, get proper 8-hour sleep. 

• Do not apply makeup 

When you go for the appointment, irrespective of the area of treatment, avoid wearing makeup or even moisturizer to the area. With a clean area, you can avoid irritation and reduce the chances of infection. 

Tooth decay is the most prevailing dental problem globally that can wreak havoc on your oral health and appearance. Thankfully dentistry has evolved tremendously which offers several preventive measures like fluoride treatment. Used over 50 years, this mineral possesses several benefits that find application in modern preventive dentistry. 

The Hanover dentist offers comprehensive fluoride treatments to keep tooth decay at bay! This can tremendously enhance your oral health and overall physical well-being.

Understanding the importance of fluoride treatment 

Fluoride treatment is a dental procedure where concentrated fluoride is applied to the teeth in the form of a gel, or varnish, or provided systemically through fluoridated water. The fluoride seeps into the deeper layers of the tooth structure and forms a protective coating that covers your teeth. 

Fluoride helps to:

• Remineralize your tooth enamel
• Reverse early tooth decay
• Slow down the process of demineralization
• Prevent the growth of cavity-causing bacteria 

Mode of delivery:

• Topical fluoride

Fluoride is delivered through toothpaste, mouth rinse, foam, varnish, and gels to prevent decay in the newly erupted teeth. The treatment is recommended for children at least twice a year during dental checkups.

• Systemic fluoride 

This type of fluoride delivery can strengthen the erupted teeth as well as the ones that are still developing under the gums. This is directly ingested through regular community water supply or in the form of gels or tablets. However, care should be taken to discuss the dose with your dentist to prevent fluorosis (excess fluoride levels that cause white spots or stains on your teeth).

Indications:

Fluoride treatment helps in the following conditions:

• Deep pits and fissures on the occlusal surfaces of the teeth
• Recent history of dental decay
• Exposed and sensitive root surfaces
• Poor oral hygiene
• Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake
• Xerostomia, a condition caused by low saliva content leading to dry mouth 

Benefits:

Fluoride treatment is beneficial in the following ways: 

• It can be used for both children and adults
• Effectively prevents tooth decay
• Significantly arrests existing caries
• Is cost-effective 
• Less-time consuming
• Avoids the necessity for extensive and expensive dental work 
• Prevents premature loss of teeth

Dentists can effectively channel the potential and strength of fluorides efficiently to reinforce your tooth enamel and reduce the risk of caries. However, make sure you brush and floss your teeth twice daily, eat balanced meals, reduce in-between meal sugary snacks, and visit your dentist regularly for long-lasting results, in addition to fluoride treatment. Good oral health is essential for your overall health and wellness.