Gum brightening, also known as teeth bleaching, has become extremely popular in the past few years, with dentists offering the procedure to more and more patients all the time. But what exactly is gum brightening? Is it safe? And, most importantly, is it worth it? Here’s everything you need to know about gum brightening so that you can make an educated decision on whether or not it’s right for you.
What Are Melanocytes?
Melanocytes are cells that make the pigment melanin. In order to produce melanin, they also need L-tyrosine, which is found in protein. They’re found in the skin and mucous membranes of mammals. The purpose of melanocytes is to protect against UV light by absorbing them and releasing heat. This process can also help prevent sunburns and skin cancer.
What Causes Gingival Pigmentation?
One of the most common causes of gingival pigmentation is trauma to the gums. This can happen from an injury or surgery. Gingival pigmentation can also be caused by allergies to certain foods, medications, or chemicals.
How Do Dentists Remove Gum Pigmentation?
Dentists are always looking for new ways to treat gum pigmentation, and they’ve found a way to do so without the use of lasers. The idea is to use a chemical called hydrogen peroxide that breaks down the melanin in your gums, leaving them looking whiter. Hydrogen peroxide is safe for teeth and gums and has been around for decades. It can be used as an enamel cleaner or as a mouthwash — just don’t drink it!
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Are There Other Home Remedies?
Some dentists still offer this service, but there are other home remedies that you can use to brighten your teeth. One way is using a whitening toothpaste for two weeks and then switching to a regular toothpaste for one week. This allows the natural remineralization process of your teeth to replenish any minerals lost by the whitening process. Another remedy is to use baking soda and water as an abrasive paste on your teeth and rinse off with warm water afterward. Of course, these are not as effective as laser treatments, but they may be worth a try if you don’t want to spend a lot of money or go through the hassle of scheduling an appointment with your dentist.
How Much Does Bleaching Cost?
The cost for gum bleaching is going to vary depending on your location, the dentist you see, and whether or not there are any other procedures you want to get done at the same time. The average cost ranges from $300-$600 per session. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, some dentists will offer discounts on subsequent sessions.
Can You Get Colgate’s Whitening Stripes At Home Too?
Colgate has a few different ways to get that pearly white smile at home, one of which is Colgate Whitening Strips. These strips are pretty much like the ones you find in your dentist’s office, but you can buy them from Amazon or the drugstore. The kit comes with custom-fit trays that go over your teeth and have little holes for the gel to go through. You put the gel in the tray, place it on your teeth, and wear it for one hour before removing it and cleaning your mouth with a toothbrush.
And if that sounds like too much work, there’s always Colgate Whitening Toothpaste.
Final Thoughts:
All in all, gum bleaching is a cosmetic procedure that’s worth the money and time if you’re looking to improve your smile. Just make sure to consult with your dentist first before making any decisions!
