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Teeth Bleaching with Home-Use Products
There are several types of products available for use at home,
which can either be dispensed by your dentist or purchased over-the-counter.
Bleaching solutions. These products contain peroxide(s),
which actually bleach the tooth enamel. These products typically
rely on percent carbamide peroxide as the bleaching agent, carbamide
peroxide comes in several different concentrations (10%, 16%, 22%).
Peroxide-containing whiteners typically come in a gel and are placed
in a mouthguard. Usage regimens vary. Some products are used for
about twice a day for 2 weeks, and others are intended for overnight
use for 1-2 weeks. If you obtain the bleaching solution from your
dentist, he or she can make a custom-fitted mouthguard for you that
will fit your teeth precisely. Currently, only dentist-dispensed
home-use 10% carbamide peroxide tray-applied gels carry the ADA
Seal.
You also may want to speak with your dentist should any side effects
become bothersome. For example, teeth can become sensitive during
the period when you are using the bleaching solution. In many cases,
this sensitivity is temporary and should lessen once the treatment
is finished. Some people also experience soft tissue irritation-either
from a tray that doesn't fit properly or from solution that may
come in contact with the tissues. If you have concerns about such
side effects, you should discuss them with your dentist.
Toothpastes. All toothpastes help remove surface stain through
the action of mild abrasives. Some "whitening" toothpastes
have special chemical or polishing agents that provide additional
stain removal effectiveness. Unlike bleaches, these products do
not alter the intrinsic color of teeth.
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