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All About Implants

My teeth were starting to deteriorate, and I was running out of options to repair them. The dentist gave me a choice. I could wait until the bone loss was so bad that I would have to have my teeth removed and get dentures, or I could have them removed now and get dental implants. I opted for the implants. If you’re thinking of getting dental implants, you probably have a lot of questions. I love mine, but they took some getting used to. In this blog, I’m sharing my experience and all the information that I picked up throughout my implant experience. You can find out what the procedure entails, how to prepare for your implants, and how to care for them once they’re in.

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All About Implants

3 Teeth Whitening Applications

by Alfredo Moore

If you would like your teeth to be several shades whiter than they currently are, there are teeth-whitening applications that are designed to help brighten your teeth. Here are a few of them:

Over-the-Counter Whitening Kits

Most drugstores offer teeth-whitening kits that are available without a prescription. These kits often include a whitening solution or gel and sometimes a mouth guard to help hold the solution in place. There may even be whitening strips to which the gel is pre-applied. The whitening product is allowed to remain on the teeth for a period of time before being removed.

Usually, the whitening process can take several weeks. However, it is best not to try to rush the process by using the strips more frequently than prescribed on the packaging. Overuse of home teeth-whitening kits can sometimes lead to painful dental sensitivity.

In-Office Whitening Procedures

Teeth whitening can be performed by your dentist in his or her office. The whitening solutions used in professional products are usually much stronger and more effective than those used in over-the-counter products.

To prepare for a teeth whitening session, your dentist will likely perform a dental exam to ensure that the reason for your discoloration is not associated with a need for restorative dental care. Once he or she is assured that the discoloration is due to dental staining, he or she will proceed with the treatment.

Your gums and any exposed tooth roots will be protected by covering them with a barrier. In addition, your lips and cheeks are pulled back from your teeth using a specialized retracting device. The dentist then applies a peroxide-based gel to the teeth. The gel is left in place for a period, and a specialized light may be applied to intensify the whitening power of the product.

Home-Use Whitening Applications from Your Dentist

Your dentist may also offer approved whitening kits for use at home. These are generally stronger than over-the-counter whitening kits but not as concentrated as the in-office whitening gels.

The take-home kits from the dentist may include a mouth tray that is customized for you. To prepare the tray, your dentist will likely make a mold of your teeth in the office. A separate mold is made for your top and bottom teeth so that the whitening trays are perfectly positioned over the teeth only.

If you're interested in having your teeth whitened professionally, contact the office of a dentist in your area or check out websites like http://www.fortcollinsdentist.com for more information.

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