Monday, June 9, 2008

Getting that all-white bridal smile


You'll be smiling all day, of course, for the pictures, and just because you're so darned happy! You want your smile to be every bit as white and bright as your bridal gown. If nature hasn't blessed you with naturally brilliant pearly whites, or if you routinely yellow your teeth with coffee, tea or cigarettes, you might decide to boost your dental brilliance artificially.
There are several ways to do that.
Dentist-supervised whitening include bleaching gels at a higher concentration than you can find in the pharmacy. You can also have your teen whitened with laser therapy. These therapies can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the method, your teeth, the number of treatments required.
The less expensive (and potentially less effective) methods are found in your pharmacy: teeth-whitening gels (usually applied with a tray), strips and toothpaste. Teeth-whitening toothpastes are the least effective of any of these methods, since they only treat the surface, and most yellowing occurs under the surface of the tooth. Gels and strips are better. They cost between ten and fifty dollars, typically, and often require a week or two weeks of treatment.
If you have caps or crowns, you must see your dentist before starting any type of tooth-whitening! Whether you have caps or not, if the whitening causes your teeth to become sensitive, you'll need to stop and talk it over with your dentist before proceeding.
You don't have to whiten your teeth, of course. Your smile will be brilliant with joy! But if you want that little extra sheen, take a little time to explore your options. You have lots of choice!

No comments: