A child usually has bright white sparkling teeth, but as we age so do our teeth.
Our enamel becomes worn down, revealing more and more of the color of our teeth under the thinning enamel.
Many people are put off by the color, and seek to have professional teeth whitening performed.
There are a number of ways to get your teeth whiter, either have professional tooth whitening done or choose one of the many at home formulas and do it yourself.
If you seek to have teeth bleaching done professionally by the dentist, usually it will require about an hour to remove the stains on your teeth.
How well professional teeth whitening may work, whether to have it done by the dentist or performed at home may depend on your age.
If you are a teenager, your teeth will most probably become a dazzling white with a home tooth whitening kit without needing a follow up.
However, for each decade thereafter it becomes harder and harder to perform any kind of tooth whitening.
This is due to the dentin stains described above.
Then you may want to consider professional teeth whitening at the dental office.
Your genetic makeup also has a lot to do with the efficacy of teeth whitening.
Genetics accounts for the natural color of your teeth.
Some have a yellow brown color, while others have a greenish gray cast to them.
The yellow browns are easier to bleach.
Thick teeth that are opaque will also be easier to whiten as opposed to thin translucent ones.
If you find that you have teeth that are more difficult to whiten, perhaps seeking professional help is a better idea.
Cost is a factor to consider when deciding which way to go for teeth whitening.
At a cost of about $20-$100, the over-the-counter tooth whitening kits may bleach the front teeth more than the rest, since the tray is a "fits all.
" You may also obtain a professional tooth whitening kit from your dentist for about $100-$400.
The solution used for bleaching your teeth will be stronger than the over-the-counter ones, and you will be supplied with a custom-made tray that makes a large difference.
Having the professional tooth whitening procedure done at the dental office, for about $650 per visit, will involve a much higher concentration peroxide gel.
Your gums will be protected as well.
The solution is left on for 15-20 minute intervals.
You may need to follow this up at home too.
Whether to go for professional tooth whitening or do it at home yourself really depends on the various factors mentioned above.