subject: Brightening Your Smile [print this page] Yellow or stained teeth are no longer a matter of embarrassment, thanks to the availability of a number of teeth whitening methods.
There are several factors that may lead to the discolouration of teeth. The natural shade of teeth can be affected due to age, surface stains from continuous use of tobacco products, consumption of alcohol, aerated beverages and certain foods, etc. Yellowed or stained teeth can be quite unsightly to look at, which can mar the appearance of an individual. This is when the need for teeth whitening arises. A number of dental clinics in Pune offer services like teeth whitening, tooth extractions, dental implants, smile makeover, orthodontic treatment, and dental surgery, etc.
Teeth whitening is more of a cosmetic procedure than treatment. Though considered to be a modern practice, teeth whitening has been around for almost centuries. The history of teeth whitening procedures can be traced back to the Egyptians and Romans. Pumice stones, wine vinegar, and even urine were used as whitening agents. In the 18th century, nitric and oxalic acid were used to whiten teeth. In 1884, hydrogen peroxide was used as a bleaching agent to reduce discoloration. According to American Dental Association (ADA), high intensity lights were introduced in 1918. These lights were used along with hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to speed up the bleaching process. Today, the materials used for bleaching teeth include:
Bleach
Bleaching trays
Whitening gels or strips
Whitening toothpaste
Many people also use natural whitening agents like lemon juice, apples, carrots, and celery to bleach their teeth. In a survey conducted by American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the demand for teeth whitening was almost 300% in between 1996 and 2002. Moreover, the percentage is still on the rise.
The latest innovation in cosmetic dentistry is Zoom teeth whitening. This is a modern bleaching process that is performed along with a specially designed light to reduce the discoloration of the enamel and dentin. The duration of the procedure may vary. However, it takes about an hour to complete the treatment on an average. Dental clinics in Pune provide the best dental care suited to the requirements of a patient. Teeth whitening has proved to be a boon for people looking to enhance their dental appearance. Though there are a number of 'do-it-yourself' teeth whitening options available, it is always advisable to go to a dentist for dental procedures.
