With time and use, our teeth naturally lose their beautiful white coloration. Here at Toothbar in downtown Austin, Texas, our team strives to provide solutions for tooth discoloration and other common oral health problems. Many people have questions when it comes to the teeth whitening products and solutions available. Here, we will briefly cover the best tooth-whitening practices.
1. Proper Product Use
To begin, be sure to read the instructions for your whitening strips fully. There are many products on the market and even products that seem similar may differ, requiring a specific application process. Always read and fully adhere to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Failure to do so may lead to unwanted results.
2. Pre-Care
Before applying your whitening strips, be sure to clean your teeth and mouth fully, including brushing, flossing, and an adequate mouthwash rinse. The enamel surfaces to be treated should be fully free of food and other materials which could prevent contact between the product and your tooth enamel. If your teeth are not fully clean before use, your whitening strips are likely to make incomplete contact with the enamel.
3. Strip Prep
Before application, take the time to ensure that you apply your strips to the proper location. Some products come with separate strips for the upper teeth and the lower teeth. Make sure to apply the side of each strip with the whitening gel agent to the tooth enamel and not to the gums. The side with no whitening gel should be smooth.
4. Application
Having found the right strips for the upper and lower teeth, and the correct side of each strip, place your strips over your teeth. Be sure the whitening gel makes contact with the enamel and that your teeth are fully covered by the strips. Dry your teeth before application. Gently smooth the strips with a toothbrush. Make sure the strips are not covering your gums.
5. Wait
Now, wait for the strips to do their job. Most strips take approximately 30 minutes to work. Again, check the manufacturer’s instructions for the amount of time your whitening strips require to do their job. To keep your mouth dry, lie on your back during the application and breathe through your mouth to avoid excessive saliva build-up.
6. Removal
Finally, remove your whitening strips. Peel them away and dispose of them. Do not use the same strips more than once. Do not leave them in longer than the manufacturer recommends. Clean your mouth and teeth fully after each application. Avoid swallowing the whitening gel, as it is not meant for human consumption.
To make the best choice for you, be sure to work with a qualified, professional Austin Cosmetic Dentist. Our team of orthodontists here at Toothbar is here to deliver expert care tailored to meet your needs. Get in touch today to learn more and find the teeth whitening solution that’s best for you.
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