Sensitivity & Whitening

A dazzling smile is something most of us want. After all our smile is part of the first impression we present to people. A beautiful smile can improve self esteem and create good feelings in those we bestow are smile on. Getting your brilliant smile it's whitest can be easy. 

"Who is a candidate for whitening? Well, almost anyone who has their natural teeth can whiten," says Dr. Judith Ko from Hemet. "And there are a variety of products that can help."

Over the counter whitening products abound. They generally provide a small amount of the ingredient necessary to whiten your teeth. For years dentists have provided an alternative - whitening trays. These are taken home and used periodically has needed. Finally there is the whitening that is done in the dental office. "When whitening under the supervision of a dentist, you are able to receive a higher concentration of the active ingredient. This allows us to provide patients with a white smile many shades lighter than when they first began treatment," Adds Dr. Ko. 

The down side? Some patients complain about sensitivity following whitening. If you are one of those who experiences sensitivity here are some ideas for what may help:

1. Reduce the amount of product you are using at one time.

2. Reduce the amount of time you spend at home with your trays in your mouth.

3. Use Fluoride regularly and brush on your teeth, or use a toothpaste especially designed for sensitivity.

4. Limit your intake of cold drinks and liquids.

5. Speak to your dentist and let her know that you are having discomfort, many times she may have an alternate solution.

This year smile and be proud of your pearly whites.

What's the Best Way to Whiten My Teeth?

According to WebMD, the best and most inexpensive way to keep your teeth white and bright is to have regular dental visits. Having your teeth cleaned removes the stain that comes from normal eating and drinking. Stains occur when you drink coffee and tea and can even come from eating things like apples. While regular visits to your dentist keeps most smiles at their brightest, some people may need or want additional help.

"If your smile needs a boost, to get it to the shade you desire, there are a couple of methods that work well," says Dr. Judith Ko from her cosmetic dental practice located in Hemet, California. Trays can be formulated specifically for a particular mouth by your dentist. These trays are then filled with a whitening solution. The solutions are different from what you can purchase at your local pharmacy and produce a more dramatic result. The trays and solution can be applied to your teeth at home when it is convenient.

Another method of whitening is completed in the dental office. Many times referred to as 1-hour or in-office whitening, this method utilizes a stronger solution and is monitored by a professional when applied. "Both methods are great for giving you a whiter smile," Dr. Ko says.

With the holiday season fast approaching, wouldn't you like to have a brighter smile?