Teeth Whitening and Bleaching

Teeth Whitening and Bleaching Treatments

Your smile makes an immediate impact on everyone you meet. A bright white smile gives you a youthful and healthy appearance. Professional tooth whitening can deliver excellent whitening results in a short period. It’s a popular procedure, because it can greatly improve the appearance of your smile.

What causes tooth discoloration ?

Teeth can become discolored for several reasons. Our teeth naturally darken as we age, but tooth enamel also contains pores that can hold stains. The most common causes of discolored teeth include :

Colored beverages : Coffee, tea, and red wine can stain your teeth.
Smoking : This habit can give your teeth a yellowed appearance.
Poor dental hygiene : Tartar, fillings, and tooth decay can cause discoloration.
Injury : Damage to nerves and blood vessels can discolor your teeth.
Medications : When given to children with developing adult teeth, antibiotics can cause discoloration.

How can I whiten discolored teeth ?

There are several ways to whiten your teeth. Many people use a mixture of professional and home treatments. Here are some things you can do to improve the appearance of discolored teeth :

Brush your teeth regularly at home.
Quit smoking and limit your consumption of colored beverages.
Schedule a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar.
Schedule a professional in-office whitening treatment.

How is a professional in-office whitening treatment done ?

In-office whitening treatments are fast and effective. First, your dentist will place a barrier along your gum line to prevent the bleaching solution from harming the tissue. This allows your dentist to use a stronger whitening agent. Next, your dentist will apply the whitening solution to your teeth. Some whitening products require a special light or laser to activate the bleaching agent.

The solution can be left on your teeth for up to 1 hour.

After reaching the desired shade or maximum application time, your dentist will rinse your teeth and view the results. Patients with severely stained teeth may need more than one in-office whitening treatment to achieve the preferred color. To prevent re-staining, avoid highly pigmented foods and beverages for at least 24 hours.

How is at-home whitening treatment done ?

If you wish to whiten your teeth at home, your dentist can take an impression of your teeth and gums in order to make custom teeth whitening trays. Treatment involves placing whitening gel in the trays and wearing them for a set amount of time each day for 1 to 3 weeks. The time spent wearing the trays will depend on the concentration of the whitening solution and the level of whiteness you’re trying to achieve.

How long does a professional teeth whitening treatment last ?

The results of a professional teeth whitening treatment are not permanent. The longevity of your results depends on a variety of factors. If you regularly smoke or drink highly pigmented beverages, you teeth will eventually become discolored. Your dentist can help you determine the appropriate whitening schedule.

What are the side effects of professional teeth whitening ?

Whitening is not likely to cause serious side effects. When used properly, whitening solutions will not damage or weaken your teeth. Some patients experience mild gum irritation or tooth sensitivity immediately after treatment.

Am I a good candidate for professional teeth whitening treatment ?

Before undergoing professional teeth whitening treatment, you must have healthy teeth and gums. Patients with periodontal disease are generally cautioned against undergoing professional teeth whitening treatment. Cavities and tooth decay will need to be addressed before bleaching to keep the whitening solution from penetrating the inner area of the tooth.

There is no whitening agent for most dental work, including fillings, crowns, porcelain veneers, implants, and dentures. After whitening, your natural teeth could come out lighter than your restorations. If you want to achieve whiter teeth, you’re also making a commitment to replace your restored teeth.

Teeth whitening treatments are not recommended for pregnant women and children. Your dentist can help you determine if professional teeth-whitening treatment is the right choice for you.

Teeth Whitening and Bleaching