Thursday, March 5, 2009

The White Way: Different Methods Of Tooth Whitening

Tooth whitening is an increasingly popular procedure that is highly effective at lightening the natural colour of your teeth and diminishing any stains at the same time. It’s important to understand you cannot completely change the colour of your teeth, but you can lighten their existing appearance, sometimes by up to six or seven shades. 

Everyday drinks and foods such as blackcurrant, tea and even curry can stain your teeth and leave them looking less than brilliant white. Calculus or tartar can also affect the natural colour of your teeth, so there are many different reasons as to why you might want to consider whitening your teeth. 

If brighter, whiter teeth are something you dream about having then this is now a distinct possibility due to an array of whitening products, treatments and procedures that are available. 

Tray whitening is one such method which can be carried out at home; however, you would still require an initial consultation with your dentist who will tell you if you are an ideal candidate for the treatment. If this type of treatment is suitable for you then impressions will be taken of your teeth. These impressions are used to create a rubber tray that fits into your mouth perfectly, which is followed by a tooth whitening gel being poured into the tray. This type of whitening is usually carried out over a course of five or six applications. 

The latest type of teeth whitening is called Zoom Advanced. This is an in-clinic bleaching process that works to lighten discolouration of the tooth enamel and produces instant results. This type of whitening treatment is capable of achieving results between six to ten shades lighter than the existing colour, so if it’s quick and efficient results you’re after then this may be the best option for you. 

Another type of treatment is internal tooth whitening, a technique used for a discoloured front tooth which has previously had root canal treatment. Many people often worry that it may not be possible to lighten teeth which have had root canal treatment, but internal tooth whitening offers a solution to this common concern. 

Regardless of whether you opt for professional bleaching or Zoom whitening, you can help to keep your teeth appearing white after the whitening procedure. 

First of all you can cut down your consumption of food and drink that can stain teeth. Red wine, tea and coffee are all common offenders and restricting consumption of these can make a definite difference. Stopping smoking can also help prevent discolouring and staining. The golden rule of brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste will also stand you in good stead when it comes to overall oral hygiene. 

There really are many whitening methods which you can apply to ensure your teeth appear as white as possible, meaning it is possible to have that smile you always wanted.

Paul McIndoe writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

Why Should You Choose A Private Dentist?

The nerves may not entirely go away when it comes to an appointment with the dentist, but going private can result in a much more pleasant experience. 

There are plenty of reasons why people decide to go private instead of sticking with an NHS dentist. Firstly you have a lot more choice as to who you have looking at your teeth; making appointments with NHS dentists are becoming more difficult by the day, which means you may have to settle for whoever is available at the time to take you on. 

That’s not the case with a private dentist - here it is possible to select the dentist that you feel most comfortable with, which means you will tend to feel far less nervous about going to see them. You will also feel much more at ease about talking to them and discussing whatever needs or questions you may have. 

What's more, you will notice that you get more time devoted to your dental care as well. The old philosophy of ‘in, out and get it over with as quickly as possible’ isn’t the best one to opt for if you want the best dental treatment possible. With a private dentist you will find that you can discuss the different options available for having a dental problem solved. Not only will these have an impact on the final price you will pay, but also on your own dental health - you will probably feel more in control too. 

Another main reason why many people choose to opt for private treatment is because the scope and range of treatments available tends to be wider. You won’t automatically get offered an amalgam filling if you need a filling done, for example. You will be told about all the different options there are for making your teeth look as good as new again. 

This leads on to cosmetic dentistry as well. NHS dentists tend more to repair damage when it occurs; if you want a cosmetic treatment you will be able to select from the full range at a private dentist. 

In short, it is obvious that you will feel more at ease about using a private dental practice. Instead of a ‘one size fits all’ service, you are able to choose a practice that can offer just what you are looking for. You can also expect to be able to benefit from more advanced services and the latest treatments as well. However, perhaps the most striking difference between NHS dentists and private ones is that you will indeed feel more in control of what happens with a private dentist, which is a good position to be in.

Victoria Cochrane writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.