Modern medicine allows you to perform teeth whitening of any complexity. But many refuse services, motivating this by fear of dentists, which has been strengthened since childhood. There are many ways to care for the oral cavity, but even thorough procedures are rarely able to restore aesthetic whiteness to the teeth. This is why alternative whitening methods have been invented that do not require visits to the dentist. One of them is a teeth whitening pencil.
Smile from Hollywood
The concept is already firmly entrenched in the minds and now everyone strives to become the owner of a snow-white smile. By nature, teeth are never white, they have a natural slightly yellowish tint. In the pursuit of beauty, many turn a blind eye to the facts and strive for the "ideal" by all means. Cardinal methods are able to give whiteness, but along with this, they have a detrimental effect on enamel. Such a turn of events entails the development of many diseases of the oral cavity and dentition.
The whitening pencil is a relatively new development, which is characterized by gentle teeth whitening and a good result. Manufacturers claim the method is completely safe. And in addition to brightening functions, the pencil also protects against caries and other acquired defects. Its compact size allows it to be used in almost any environment and is easy to carry around. We can assume that this is a kind of alternative to a toothbrush.
What is it: another myth or reality and a new discovery in the world of beauty? To understand the true state of things, you need to get more deeply acquainted with the development.
Characteristics of the whitening pencil
The invention differs in many respects. This:
- package design;
- application method;
- whitening level;
- price.
At the origins of its popularity, the pencil was in demand only among the weak half of humanity, therefore it was produced exclusively in the format of lipstick. Now the tool is widely popular, as a result of which it is packaged in different containers. It may even look like a fountain pen, and no one will guess the true purpose of the accessory.
Behind the outer shell is a vial with whitening contents. This is a gel based on banal hydrogen peroxide, which in its pure form has a detrimental effect on the condition of the enamel. Therefore, a solution with a concentration of 5% to 12% is used for the pencil. Auxiliary components give freshness to the breath and have a calming effect on the oral mucosa.
For even more gentle teeth whitening, carbamide peroxide is used. Due to the content of urea, the whitening result is not so strong, but the effect on the enamel is then also minimal. Well suited for people with dental health problems, as it prevents further decay.
A high concentration of peroxide or peroxide in the composition of the pencil has a detrimental effect on enamel. Therefore, such varieties are used in exceptional cases. Before buying, be sure to study the information on the composition!
How to use a pencil correctly?
The design of the teeth whitening pencil allows you to use it always and almost anywhere. To use it is not necessary to brush your teeth. It is enough to wipe them with a dry cloth or, if necessary, rinse your mouth with warm water. After uncorking the dispenser, you can begin to apply the substance. Immediately after lubrication of the teeth, the patient observes foam, which is normal, as the gel reacts to the combination with oxygen.
It is important to follow the instructions on the packaging exactly. It is strongly not recommended to keep the emulsion on the teeth for longer than the prescribed period. For different manufacturers, this period varies from 1 to 12 minutes. Longer exposure causes irritation of the mucous membranes and damage to the protective layer of enamel.
It is strictly forbidden to close your mouth and relax your lips during a whitening session with a pencil. At first glance, this is not easy to do. But everything is not as difficult as it seems. It is enough just to smile broadly while lightening occurs. For several minutes, a smile will not cause you discomfort.
Application features
Some patients go to extremes and use a pencil almost every hour for the speedy appearance of the effect. Such actions are extremely erroneous, since in addition to whitening they will completely destroy the tooth after a few days. Do not forget that this is primarily a medical product, not a cosmetic one.
It is optimal to use the product in the morning and evening. It is strictly not recommended to use more than three times a day. In the first days, patients often notice an increase in sensitivity. Dentists assure that this is an absolutely normal reaction to the drug. Soon the condition will return to normal. Usually two weeks is enough to get the best effect. When the results do not meet expectations, then a month later the course can be safely repeated. A break is needed to rest the enamel from chemical influences.
In order for the patient to monitor the dynamics of whitening every day, a special ruler is attached to the pencil package. It displays the color palette of different shades of enamel. So you can understand whether the tool is right for you.
Results cannot be perfect without effort. It is advisable at least for the duration of the procedures to abandon products that are harmful to the color of the teeth. This is coffee, red wine, chocolate. In general, all products with bright coloring. Smoking is detrimental to the whiteness of a smile. The combination of a whitening pencil with tobacco products may well make the result zero.
Advantages of the method
Ease of use and good effect are the main advantages of the technique. It is easy to use the product at home, without visiting the dentist and prior consultations. The main thing is to strictly follow the recommendations on the package and not make your own amendments.
Careful exposure allows everyone to apply the technique. In addition to lightening, the components of the pencil have a beneficial effect on enamel. During the procedures, you can understand the degree of sensitivity of the teeth and adjust the diet by eliminating unsuitable foods. Thus, protecting yourself from possible dental diseases.
Are there any contraindications?
Just like any other chemical product. The whitening pencil also has a number of factors preventing its use.
- It can only be used on healthy teeth. Then you must first perform the sanitation of the oral cavity in order to prevent deterioration.
- Allergic reactions to the components of the emulsion are not excluded, so you need to carefully study the composition of the vial before use.
- Experiments are not recommended for pregnant women. And the presence of a piercing will become a strong reason for irritation of the mucous membranes, especially after using bleaching agents.
- In childhood, the enamel is not yet sufficiently strengthened, so the components of the brightening gel can destroy it. It is better to postpone the procedure until adulthood.
Everyone should independently prioritize and evaluate the benefits and harms of using a whitening pencil. If desired, it can always be purchased in the public domain.