Not too happy when you see yourself smile? If one is not comfortable flashing that bright smile, its no longer a worry as one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures is very common. So common that you can even do it in the comforts of your own home.

Teeth whitening is a procedure done to remove or improve discoloration of the teeth. The process can be classified into two major categories: bleaching and non-bleaching.

Bleaching is when the products use contain peroxide and it purposely changes the “natural teeth color. It works from inside to the surface of the teeth. As with non-bleaching, it has components that help remove or improve the appearance of surface stains.

There are several causes why teeth develop discoloration. Some of them are due to “colored drinks like coffee, soda and wine. Food can also be included in the list. The top cause for not having a bright smile is due to smoking. It can cause permanent staining. Brushing alone can not solve the problem. Sometimes, genetics play a role on the color of your teeth. If most of the people in your family are gifted with a nice set of teeth, then you are more likely to have the same.

Nowadays, almost everyone is open to the idea of teeth whitening because it has been deemed safe for anyone and everyone. There are basically two types of procedure to have your pearly whites. One is with a dentist and second is at-home on your own. Lets take a look on the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure. With in-office, is generally safer since a professional is doing the work for you. Also, it produces the result faster and more effectively. Usually, every session, there is a comparison chart to keep track of your progress and to check how far you are from your goal. As mentioned, this process is safer because the dentist makes sure your lips and gums are guarded from the procedure, which can greatly harm these parts. Another good thing about this is that the dentist is available to give you personal advice on what to expect and how to handle side effects (if any) that go with the procedure. Together with the advantages come the disadvantages and this would include first and foremost, the high cost that goes with it.

Another method is by using over-the counter whitening products. Some kits are prescribed by dentists wherein it would contain a teeth tray and whitening gel which you would have to apply on your own at different times of the day. One great disadvantage for at-home kits is that it can pose a great danger as some of the components of the product can actually burn the gums or lips if not applied correctly. Cheaper at-home methods would include whitening strips, toothpaste which are somehow ineffective as compared to at-home kits in-office procedure.

If you are not too fond of chemicals, you may resort to the natural method, which will definitely take a long time and a lot of dedication. You must steer away from stain-causing food and drinks as mentioned above. Also, it would help if you eat foods that are rich in fiber like celery, apple, and cauliflower, among others.

There are numerous advantages of having your teeth bleached like feeling good about yourself and having a great smile. When you have a nice set of teeth, you are believed to have good hygiene and a healthy lifestyle. It also improves your attitude because it makes you a lot less self-conscious. Disadvantages would be the cost and the temporary discomfort one may experience due to exposure to bleaching agents and teeth being too sensitive for quite some time.

Although technology has found a way to make us look good, we have to do something to keep it that way, just like any other cosmetic procedure. Most common advice given is to refrain from stain-causing food and drinks as mentioned earlier. Smokers who want to undergo the procedure are required to stop smoking as it may contradict the process.

For those who are still hesitant on whether to go through the procedure, it might be helpful to say that this procedure is neither safe nor unsafe especially with at-home kits. The elements in these products are safe IF used in proper amounts with the right amount of time. They have to be followed strictly. On the other hand, if you opt to go for in-office, do expect that there will be side effects which will be discussed by your dentist since these differ from each and every person