If you’ve been considering adding more cosmetic treatments into your beauty routine, you are not alone. It’s normal to want to look our best, and even simple enhancements like whitening our teeth can help improve our appearance.
Though color-changing is a natural occurrence, many would prefer to correct the changes that take place on our teeth. This is likely because whitening teeth is said to help reverse the appearance of aging. In a survey conducted by the American Association of Orthodontics, a whopping 90% of participants have opted-in for some form of teeth-whitening treatment.
While it is a popular choice, professional teeth whitening can come at a price as it is considered a cosmetic dental procedure, meaning it is not deemed medically necessary by your insurance company, and such costs are often not covered under most dental plans. Luckily, when it comes to easy, inexpensive ways to practice self-care, at-home treatment options top the list for many.
Read on to find out how you can brighten and even prevent stains from developing on your teeth.
How your teeth change with age
Changes in your teeth occur naturally over time, and it is not always a greater indication of how you’ve cared for your oral health. Teeth can even become dingier in appearance because as we brush through the years, a deeper layer of enamel called dentin is exposed. Dentin is more yellow in color than the outermost layer of your tooth, thus causing your teeth to change in shade over time the more regular brushing wears them down.
Normal activity such as eating and drinking can dull the brightness of our smiles over time as well, with acidic items like citrus, wine, and coffee being top culprits. One major way to keep your teeth bright and healthy is preventive care. It may be hard to give up some of your favorite beverages, but the long-term effects may outweigh the sacrifice if your goal is a whiter smile.
At-home teeth whitening methods
Though changes in teeth brightness is natural, teeth whitening is still a top priority for many individuals. Most reliable methods of teeth whitening are offered at your nearest drug store! There’s virtually no way to discuss any oral health without emphasizing the importance of brushing your teeth the recommended rate of twice a day. The kind of toothpaste you use matters as well, with many opting for a whitening brand to give their brush sessions a boost. Did you know brushing your teeth with a bit of baking soda can also work wonders in adding a bit of sparkle to your morning and night routine? Give it a try and see how the shades whiten over the course of just a few weeks!
Whitening strips are another great way to achieve professional-looking brightening results. Even at a rate of about $25-$100, some DIY treatments are worth the splurge as compared to the cost of professional whitening selections. However, the ADA does advise that teeth whitening treatments be conducted with the care and supervision of your dental practitioner.
Professional whitening
Professional whitening can be accomplished with gel in trays or via a laser, and can be done in about an hour in the dentist’s chair. The trays used during treatment must be customized for best results, and the cost ranges from about $300-400. Laser options may also cost about $500. Your dentist can also create a customized take-home whitening tray, made right in the office.
Call your dentist for more information about the cost of whitening treatment and what professional options may be available to you. It is important to note that Delta Dental plans do not cover cosmetic oral care procedures, with whitening being one of the treatments not paid for by our plans.
If professional whitening treatment sounds expensive, don’t fret. Your regular dental cleanings every six months, which are definitely covered under your Delta Dental plan, can serve as effective stain removal sessions for simple stains like coffee.
Looking for more information on how you can enhance the appearance of your teeth? Click HERE.
