Teeth whitening equipment can vary from in-office professional supplies, to products that can be utilized at home in a do-it-yourself technique. The ideal method and product to be used will be dependent upon the extent of the discoloration, and what each particular patient hopes to achieve in the outcome. Whitening, also known as dental teeth bleaching is a process done in both general dental offices, as well as cosmetic dentistry practices. The teeth whitening equipment can vary from a more affordable bleaching strip or gel, to a pricier laser bleaching treatment. Each patient’s needs vary and should be determined by a dental professional.

Although these procedures have been around for ages, the demand for the process has greatly increased in recent times.  It is among one of the most popular dental procedures performed. Many people find that their teeth darken as they grow older due to the enamel becoming less porous. They can also become discolored or spotty from various foods and drinks, such as wine, coffee, dark sodas, and tea. Some antibiotics as well as tobacco products also tend to cause discoloration.

Depending on the depth of the discoloration, the treatment options will differ from patient to patient. It is important for each patient to have an oral health check on a regular basis, and certainly prior to having any type of procedure done, including bleaching.  The preceding exam should include verification of health and dental history, examination of tissues and restorations, as well as current dental x-rays.

Once the patient has been given the all clear, it is up to the patient and dentist to determine what teeth whitening equipment will be most successful.  The most common approaches to bleaching include pens and strips, bleaching gel, and laser LED dental bleaching.  The treatments used for doing it yourself are not nearly as effective as those provided by a professional.  A majority of these products are low concentration formulas and are used over a period of one to two weeks to get the desired effect. A higher concentrated gel is also available for use at home, but it will require you to have trays made to fit your teeth, and you would purchase the gel from your dentist.  The gel consists of a higher strength of carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide to allow for faster results. When performed by a trained professional with the proper teeth whitening equipment the risk for chemical burns can be decreased, and the patient can be sure to have a more thorough application.

Laser bleaching, also known as power bleaching uses the energy from a halogen or LED light to accelerate the process.  This procedure that is performed in dental offices across the country utilizes a light that is in the blue light spectrum to cause a reaction in the applied hydrogen peroxide without overheating the tooth pulp.  Although it is more expensive than other options, it is a quicker process, taking a single office visit and less than an hour from start to finish in the chair.

No matter what teeth whitening equipment the patient chooses to go with, it is crucial to look at the possible side effects that can result from this procedure.  They may vary from patient to patient, as will the results.