Why So Many People Need Teeth Whitening and How it Works

The need for teeth whitening has never been greater than it is in the modern world. While many people talk about how much desire there is for teeth whitening, it is also important to consider why the world has demanded teeth whitening in such large volumes. There is a definite element of understanding, where people have realized more than ever before, that they benefit from whiter teeth.

However, this understanding is not a new thing, which is why teeth whitening has been around for centuries in one form or another. The difference today is the massive access to teeth whitening, spurred on by a multi-billion dollar industry that makes it convenient for you to whiten your teeth at home or in our clinic.

How teeth whitening works –

One possible explanation for the explosion in demand for teeth whitening solutions is our access to a number of other products that cause discoloration and staining of the teeth. People are consuming products like coffee, red wine, tea, energy drinks, and cola at greater rates than ever before. Each of these products is responsible for slowly staining or removing the brilliant whiteness of teeth. The less white the teeth become, the greater the need for teeth-whitening solutions.

When one uses teeth whitening solutions, either over the counter or with us in the clinic, he or she is engaging in a chemical modification process. What this means is that the peroxide solution will make the smallest chemical change to the natural organic makeup of the enamel. The peroxide is quickly absorbed by the enamel and goes to work releasing free radicals which make the tooth more colorless, and hence whiter.

The teeth whitening process and the patient’s body

First, patients need to always be aware of what is happening when engaging in any process that involves their body; especially when using chemicals at home to make changes. Second, the most common mistake that many people make with teeth whitening is to over-whiten their teeth and use the product too frequently.

The truth is that after some time, absent great care, the patient is going to start to lose some of the whiteness. This does not mean that the patient should immediately start whitening again, much to the contrary. Constant teeth whitening can actually harm the teeth and lead to experiencing a lot of discomforts. Finally, because of the nature of teeth whitening, we strongly advise that patients seek out the care of a dentist prior to starting the process if they are going to be doing it at home.

At times, there can be underlying challenges with your teeth that can lead to extreme sensitivity and can be exasperated by the whitening process. Consulting with us will allow us to catch and correct any such underlying problem before you begin. Simultaneously, our whitening solution is stronger than what you can buy in the store so if you want dramatic and safe results - visit our dental office in Dubuque for your teeth whitening procedure.