What causes tooth discolouration?
Tooth discolouration is a common problem that affects many people. It can make the teeth look dull, yellow, or stained, and affect the self-esteem and appearance of your customers. To find the best tooth whitening solution for your customers, you need to understand what causes tooth discolouration in the first place.
There are two main types of tooth discolouration: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic discolouration is when the outer layer of the teeth, called enamel, gets stained by external factors, such as food, drinks, or tobacco. Intrinsic discolouration is when the inner layer of the teeth, called dentin, changes colour due to internal factors, such as age, genetics, or medications.
Some of the most common causes of tooth discolouration are:
- Food and Drinks: Some foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-coloured berries, have pigments that can stick to the enamel and cause stains over time.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking and chewing tobacco can cause severe tooth discolouration, as the nicotine and tar in tobacco can seep into the enamel and create deep stains.
- Poor Dental Hygiene: Not brushing and flossing the teeth regularly can allow plaque and tartar to accumulate on the teeth, which can lead to discolouration.
- Age: As people get older, the enamel naturally wears down, exposing the yellowish dentin underneath.
- Genetics: Some people are born with thicker or more porous enamel, which makes their teeth more prone to discolouration.
- Certain Medications: Some medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics, can cause intrinsic discolouration in developing teeth or in adults who have taken them.
Knowing the causes of tooth discolouration can help you assess the type and severity of your customers’ tooth discolouration and choose the right tooth whitening method for their specific needs and goals.
What are the different methods of tooth whitening?
There are many different methods of tooth whitening available, from over-the-counter products to professional treatments. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the budget, preferences, and expectations of your customers. Let’s take a look at each option in more detail.
Over-the-counter tooth whitening products:
Over-the-counter tooth whitening products, such as whitening toothpaste, whitening strips, and whitening gels, are easy to find and use at home. These products usually contain a lower concentration of whitening agents than professional treatments.
Over-the-counter products can offer noticeable results, but they may take longer to achieve the desired level of whiteness. They may also not be very effective for intrinsic discolouration or severe stains. They may also cause some side effects, such as tooth sensitivity or gum irritation, if used incorrectly or excessively.
If you want to offer your customers a simple and affordable way to whiten their teeth at home, you can recommend them some of the over-the-counter products that we sell at Adam Dental Supplies. We have a wide range of high-quality and reliable products from trusted brands, such as [brand name] whitening toothpaste, [brand name] whitening strips, and [brand name] whitening gels. You can visit our website to browse our products and order them online.
Professional tooth whitening treatments:
Professional tooth whitening treatments are performed by a dental professional, such as a dentist, dental hygienist, or oral health therapist, who can use a higher concentration of whitening agents and special equipment to whiten the teeth.
Professional treatments can offer immediate and lasting results, but they may also cost more and require more time and visits to the dental clinic. They may also have some potential side effects, such as tooth sensitivity or gum irritation, but these can be minimized by following the instructions and precautions of the dental professional.
Some of the most popular professional tooth-whitening treatments are:
- In-office bleaching: This is the most effective and fastest way to whiten the teeth. The dental professional applies a strong whitening gel to the teeth and activates it with a light or a laser. The procedure takes about an hour and can whiten the teeth by several shades.
- Take-home trays: This is a more convenient and affordable way to whiten the teeth. The dental professional makes custom-fitted trays for the teeth and gives a whitening gel to use at home. The customer wears the trays for a few hours a day or overnight for a few weeks, depending on the strength of the gel and the degree of whiteness they want.
If you want to offer your customers the best and fastest results possible, you can provide them with professional tooth whitening treatments at your dental clinic. At Adam Dental Supplies, we have everything you need to perform these treatments safely and effectively. Have a look at our range including, Ultradent, Kulzer, Voco and PDS Whitening systems. We also have the best prices and service in the market.
How to choose the best tooth whitening method for your customers
There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to tooth whitening. The best method for your customers depends on several factors, such as:
- The type and severity of their tooth discolouration
- Their budget and time availability
- Their expectations and preferences
- Their oral health and sensitivity
To help you make the best decision, you should consult with your customers and assess their teeth and goals. You should also explain the benefits and risks of each tooth whitening option and recommend the most suitable one for them. You should also advise them on how to prepare for and maintain their tooth whitening treatment, and how to avoid any potential complications or side effects.
How to offer your customers the best tooth whitening service
As a dental professional, you want to offer your customers the best tooth whitening service possible. Here are some tips to help you do that:
- Use high-quality products and equipment from reputable suppliers, such as Adam Dental Supplies. At Adam Dental Supplies, we offer a wide range of over-the-counter and professional tooth whitening products, such as whitening toothpaste, whitening strips, and whitening gels. You can browse our website to find the best products for your practice and your customers.
- Provide clear and honest information and expectations to your customers. Explain the pros and cons of each tooth whitening option, the costs and time involved, and the expected results and maintenance. Answer any questions or concerns they may have and address any myths or misconceptions they may have heard about tooth whitening.
- Follow the guidelines and regulations of the Dental Board of Australia and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. Only registered dental practitioners can use the strong whitening gels and products containing more than 6% hydrogen peroxide. These are most effective. The Dental Board of Australia advises that only registered dental practitioners have the training and knowledge to assess if bleaching is appropriate and safe for your customers.
- Monitor and evaluate the results and satisfaction of your customers. Ask for feedback and testimonials from your customers and use them to improve your service and promote your practice. You can also offer discounts or incentives for your customers to refer their friends and family to your practice.
By following these tips, you can offer your customers a dazzling white smile that they will love and appreciate. You can also grow your practice and reputation as a dental professional who provides high-quality and reliable tooth whitening services.