Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry
For many people an attractive smile is an important asset,
this is especially true for people who have careers in the
public eye. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the
aesthetics of a person's teeth and smile. One of the most
popular forms of cosmetic dentistry is teeth whitening; a
procedure which helps lightens teeth by removing stains and
discoloration. The primary causes of discoloration are
coffee, tea, tobacco, age and genetics.

Although anyone with permanent teeth may qualify for teeth
whitening, the procedure is most successful on people who
have healthy teeth and gums. In particular, cavities need
to be treated before undergoing any whitening process. This
is because the whitening solution can penetrate into the
decay, causing further sensitivity. In addition, teeth that
are yellowish in shade respond best to the whitening
solution, brownish teeth less well, and grey colored teeth
many not respond to whitening. It should also be noted that
only natural enamel respond to teeth whitening; fillings,
crowns and tooth colored resin will not respond to the
whitening. For those who do qualify, teeth whitening and
bleaching have been proven be both safe and effective.
Furthermore, even a change of just two or three shades can
make a noticeable difference.

There are several options when it comes to teeth whitening:
whitening toothpastes, over the counter whitening strips
and gels, tray based whitening systems and in office
bleaching. Whitening toothpastes are only able to remove
surface stains and typically lighten your teeth's color by
one shade. Whitening strips and gels both contain peroxide
and results are usually seen in a few days, typically the
results are sustained for four months. Tray based whitening
systems can be purchased either over the counter or from
your dentist. As the name suggest, tray based whitening,
involves wearing a mouth guard like "tray" for a couple of
hours every night for up to four weeks. Both over the
counter and dentist provided tray whitening systems contain
peroxide; however, only a dentist will be able to provide
you with a tray that is customized to fit your teeth
exactly. Over the counter trays are one-size-fits-all; if
the tray is an ill fit, the whitening gel may seep onto the
gums, causing irritation. In office bleaching provides the
most efficient and effective method for whitening teeth,
although it does cost more than tray based at home
bleaching. The whitening products are used in conjecture
with heat, laser or a special light to accelerate the
process. Results can be achieved in one hour, in
particular, laser based bleaching can provide dramatic
results in one hour. Other forms of in office bleaching may
need several appointments to achieve very dramatic results.
In office bleaching lightens teeth color approximately
three to seven shades lighter.

As always, it is important to consult with your dentist to
ask what form of whitening works best for you.

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For more information, you may visit
http://www.chicago-dental.com .