Dr. Miriam Puig- November 21, 2023
We all want to have “pearly whites” and will try just about anything to make our teeth shine. Some methods work better than others. What about teeth-whitening pens?
Pens have become popular in recent years. They’re convenient, they’re inexpensive, and they’re quick. And they work on a very simple principle: Brush-like tips are soaked with a liquid solution with hydrogen peroxide as its base (some use carbamide, a bleaching compound similar to peroxide) that, when applied directly to the teeth, removes discoloration from staining caused by smoking, coffee, wine, and other substances. Once applied, it takes only a few minutes to restore your teeth’s natural whiteness.
What’s Good About Them?
Teeth-whitening pens appeal to a lot of people because they can be carried easily and inconspicuously in a purse or wallet. It takes only a few seconds to use them, and only about 15-30 minutes for them to do their work. While their whitening effect won’t last indefinitely, it will hold for several hours, lasting long enough for business or social engagements. And if they’re applied correctly, nobody will even realize you’ve used them.
What’s Not-So Good About Them?
The most obvious drawback to the pens is that they are a temporary solution. Moreover, since they are strictly a cosmetic item, they make no real contribution to the health of your teeth. They also will not cover crowns or fillings, and they shouldn’t be used if you have any exposed roots or cavities. They can also irritate teeth or gums in some people and can cause discomfort. Prolonged or extensive use can even erode enamel, and that can open up a lot of problems.
What Do Dentists Think About Them?
Of course, every periodontist or hygienist has their own opinions about over-the-counter dental treatments, but since the gel in pens is comprised of harmless substances, many don’t object to their use, after all, it’s just peroxide. However, they’d probably be quick to tell you that if you really want a dependable, longer-term solution to yellow teeth, professional intervention is the best way to go. Even though some of the newest pens come complete with an LED light to help “activate” the solution, there’s no substitution for the state-of-the-art dental techniques your provider can offer.
You Have Alternatives
While a teeth-whitening pen might be a good “quick fix,” there are other things you can do to make it more long-lasting.
• A regular dental cleaning—which is important on so many levels—is helpful in keeping your teeth from turning yellow. As a rule, the healthier your teeth are, the better they’ll probably look. A cleaning usually involves removing stain-causing plaque, followed by a polish to restore some of your teeth’s natural luster. Most dentists recommend 1-2 routine cleanings per year.
• Professional teeth whitening involves much the same principle as a whitening pen, but on a much more effective level. A hydrogen peroxide solution, enhanced by harmless laser light, is applied by a dental professional to thoroughly whiten your teeth, as much as eight shades lighter. The results will last a lot longer than a pen: as much as six months to a year, provided you steer clear of tobacco and other stain-causing agents.
• A dental-grade take-home kit is a type of follow-up to professional teeth whitening. Based on the same Zoom Phillips solution that’s used in your whitening session, you can do a “mini” whitening procedure yourself in the comfort of your own home. The occasional applications will help you maintain your new white smile longer, so you won’t have to come back to the dentist so often.
• Good dental hygiene can’t be stressed enough. When teeth or gums aren’t kept clean by regular brushing and flossing, bacteria can flourish. When that happens, your teeth may not look so good, and that will be the least of your worries! You may need to come in for a deep cleaning to address a serious medical situation before you can expect your teeth to shine.
Take The First Step
Getting whiter teeth shouldn’t be a stressful prospect. Whitening is a safe, non-invasive, and painless procedure performed while you relax in the dentist’s chair. The health benefits and the self-esteem boost are well worth your time. All you need is a qualified dental provider to do the work for you.
CallThe Dental District dental clinic in Tijuana today for a consultation with our dentist in Tijuana. When deciding ona dental implant vs. a bridge, differences, and what’s best for you, our dentists can help you choose what is right for you!
Contact us today and schedule your appointment! Ask about our best services such as dental implants in Mexico, invisible orthodontics in Tijuana,teeth whitening in Tijuana,root canal in Mexicoanddental crowns in Tijuana.
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Dr. Miriam Puig
Graduated from the Intercontinental University in Mexico City with extensive experience in the field of dentistry, Dr. Miriam Puig is dedicated to caring for her patients through endodontics, being a specialist in treatments that involve the tissues of the teeth to solve problems such as deep cavities that have spread to the pulp of the teeth.
