Is smiling now a chore? Do you hate for friends and family or potential dates to see your stained teeth? If you want to have a bright smile, a good teeth whitening treatment could be the answer for you.

When our teeth first come in, they are generally completely white. This is because they are covered in protective enamel. It keeps them safe from the damage chewing, gnashing, and sugar can cause. Over time, the enamel will weaken and crack. These cracks gradually fill up with debris from food and drinks. This is why they will appear to be slightly yellowish. This is where whitening courses can help by cleaning the stains.

Extrinsic stains are the first type you will hear of. These are simply affecting the surface and not the interior of the tooth. They are often caused by tobacco, drinks like coffee, and certain foods. Usually, they are easy to get rid of by simply brushing them away. There can be slightly stubborn cases that need to be bleached. If not handled early on though, these stains can reach the interior.

The next classification of stain is known as intrinsic. This means it is affecting the interior of the tooth rather than just the surface. They are much more ingrained and stubborn. In most cases, bleaching over a course of a year can be successful. Stains like these are caused by trauma, normal aging, or exposure to high amounts of fluoride.

The best way to whiten your smile is to visit a dentist. In-office sessions yield faster and more effective results. It is also much safer. But it is also more expensive as well. To start, your dentist protects your gums with a rubber dam. Then, he will apply a potent peroxide gel to the teeth. It will need to sit for about twenty minutes and will be repeated until the time equals one hour. Results are immediate. You will have a brighter smile when you walk out of the door.

Treatments are also available for you to do yourself at home. Your dentist can directly give you one or you can purchase them at most retail stores. The peroxide count is lower than a dentist would use. However, they are cheaper, more convenient, and can still yield fair results. You will most likely find either strips or a mouth guard to cover the gel while it sits overnight in your mouth. Both methods are effective.

There are risks involved with treating your teeth with any chemical. Sensitivity to temperature or pressure can last from a few days to several months. It can even be painful. If the peroxide touches your gums, they can become really irritated as well. If you whiten the teeth yourself, there is even more chance of getting uneven color. That can be embarrassing.

Who doesn't want whiter teeth? If you want to boost your confidence and be more outgoing, a teeth whitening treatment is a great option. Be sure to visit your dentist first and seek their informed opinion, though.