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220 N Main Street,
Ste. 203, Natick, MA 01760

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Getting a Whiter, Brighter Smile

May 8, 2015
Getting a Whiter, Brighter Smile

A whiter, brighter smile has become extremely popular in the last decade. There are in-office treatments, at-home treatments, toothpastes, mouthwashes and even gum brands claiming to help whiten teeth, but what’s the best treatment for you?

In-office procedures: A common in-office whitening procedure involves custom-made trays that fit the shape of your teeth. The trays are filled with a bleaching solution and are placed on your teeth. Once the trays are created, this procedure can be taken home to complete. To speed up the process at the office, a light or heat source may be used in conjunction with the whitening trays.

At-home procedures: There are several types of home whitening procedures. Whitening strips are very common and are usually applied to the teeth once a day for about an hour, depending on the strength of the whitening agent. The whitening strips come in packs of two- one for your top teeth and one for the bottom. The strips should be made of polyethylene and should not contain chlorine dioxide, which can damage the enamel.

Another common at-home whitening procedure is whitening tray kits. These are similar to the in office procedure, but the trays are not customized to your teeth and may cause irritation to the gums. This product is usually used twice a day for two weeks.

Toothpastes and mouthwashes can also be used to help brighten your smile. Whitening toothpaste will usually contain a mild abrasiveness to remove surface stains. Whitening mouthwash contains whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide and helps whiten teeth gradually.

Whitening gum has gained popularity as well. Gum does not produce the whitening effects typically seen by in-office procedures or whitening strips, but whitening gums do have abrasive agents that help removed surface stains and helps prevent cavities by aiding in the removal of plaque.

All whitening products should contain the Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval on the outside of the package. Most at-home and in-office whitening products will contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, both bleaching agents. These ingredients may cause sensitivity to the teeth and gums.

To prevent further stains, continue brushing and flossing daily, drink water between each meal, and try drinking through a straw. Cigarettes, coffee, red wine and aging all cause discoloration of teeth. Before trying out a whitening procedure, talk to your dental hygienist about your options and if you’re a candidate for whitening.

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Chang Dental Group
Address
220 N Main Street,
Natick, MA 01760
Phone
Tel: 508-653-0444 | Fax: 508-655-5449
E-Mail
Hours
Monday | 8am - 5pm
Tuesday | 8am - 5pm
Wednesday | 8am - 5pm
Thursday | 8am - 5pm
Friday | 8am - 5pm
Saturday | Closed
Sunday | Closed

Contact our office today to schedule your appointment!

Natick

220 N Main Street,
Natick, MA 01760

Framingham

1671 Worcester Rd., Suite 401
Framingham, MA 01701
220 N Main Street, Natick, MA 01760
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