When we see someone for the first time, one of the first things we notice is their smile. This is common and natural for everyone. However, many people are not comfortable with their own teeth and therefore end up feeling bad. Problems such as separated teeth, crooked teeth, and misaligned bite usually cause a person to hide their smile. But what many people really don’t like is the color of their teeth, which is often more yellow than they would like. But is teeth whitening a good alternative in these cases?
In today’s text, we’ll talk about everything involved in this much discussed and controversial technique that is teeth whitening. Is it really worth it? Can it be harmful to your health? How much does it cost to get teeth whitening? If you want the answer to these and other questions, read to the end!
What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is nothing more than a type of treatment done so that a person’s teeth can achieve whiter shades. It is a purely aesthetic treatment, but that does not mean it should be neglected or minimized. For many people, having a more attractive smile makes them feel better about themselves, which helps them in many areas of life.
In addition, consuming certain foods leads to a person’s teeth becoming more and more yellowed over time. Factors such as smoking and certain types of medication also contribute to this. And it’s common for someone to want to get back a whiter smile.
Although it is a type of treatment that is generally quite effective, it is important to know that, depending on the type of treatment, teeth can end up feeling more sensitive. That’s because various types of chemical products are usually used during the treatment, which inevitably ends up causing side effects like this. However, this should not stop someone who wants to whiten their teeth, especially since there are many recommendations that, when followed, make your adaptation to this sensitivity much smoother.
Types of Teeth Whitening
There is more than one way to make your smile whiter. That’s why we’re going to discuss the main types of teeth whitening, showing how each procedure is done and the advantages of each. The main types of teeth whitening are:
- Laser Teeth Whitening
- At-Home Teeth Whitening
- Non-vital Teeth Whitening
- Porcelain Veneers
Laser Teeth Whitening
Laser teeth whitening is perhaps the best known of all the options on this list. That’s why we think it’s important to talk about it first. Always performed in your dentist’s office, it requires between 1 and 3 sessions, but results are visible from the very first one. The price for this kind of treatment can range from R$ 500.00 to R$ 1,000.00 depending on the office you choose and also the region where you’re having the treatment.
At-Home Teeth Whitening
At-home teeth whitening can be done in several different ways. Many people do it on their own, with pharmacy products such as gels or mouthwashes, but there are also those who prefer to whiten with natural methods, using specific herbs and plants.
Another option for at-home teeth whitening is the use of a silicone mouth tray made by the dentist and worn at home for full effect. Before technologies such as laser emerged, this was the most common way to whiten teeth.
The price for at-home teeth whitening may vary depending on the products purchased or even whether the person will have assistance from a dentist. Therefore, it can be said that this method costs between R$ 100.00 and R$ 350.00.
Non-vital Teeth Whitening
Non-vital teeth whitening consists of an internal bleaching method. This allows its effects to be felt more quickly, in addition to it generally being a relatively brief treatment, requiring only a few or just one session. Depending on the case, a dentist may or may not use laser to finish the treatment.
Porcelain Veneers
The famous dental contact lenses have become increasingly popular due to their effectiveness and minimal or practically nonexistent impact on the body. With this method, teeth are covered with a porcelain veneer that, besides whitening the teeth, also corrects certain imperfections. Of those mentioned here, this one is without a doubt the most expensive, as each veneer can cost up to R$ 2,000.00.
Who Should Not Get Teeth Whitening?
Although it is not an invasive treatment and does not have many risks, there are some people who are in the group for whom teeth whitening is not recommended. They are:
- Pregnant women
- People who have undergone intensive treatments, such as root canal
- People with very sensitive teeth
- People with serious oral diseases
Care After Teeth Whitening
- Avoid drinks with dyes, such as soft drinks, wine, and coffee
- Avoid smoking
- Brush your teeth after every meal
- Floss every day
- Get your teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist regularly
By following all these precautions, you can be sure your teeth will stay whiter for much longer, and you will not need to undergo this type of treatment for quite some time.
