Teeth Whitening
Teeth stains are inevitable due to our consumption of a variety of
foods and drinks (soda, spicy food, coffee, etc.). However, advanced
teeth whitening technology has enabled dentists to whiten teeth without
adversely affecting the tooth structure. Also known as bleaching, this
treatment will lighten teeth that are stained or discolored from such
things as:
- aging
- tetracycline (antibiotic)
staining
- excessive fluoride uptake into
enamel
- trauma (injury) to the teeth
- pulp degeneration or prior root
canal treatment
- restorative materials (silver,
gold)
- genetic and acquired illnesses
- consumption of staining
substances such as coffee, tea, or
tobacco products
 Almost all whitening methods are similar in
concept, but some are much more effective
because of the way the whitening material is
delivered to the teeth. Another contributing
factor is the concentration of the material,
which is why less potent over-the-counter
whitening systems usually don’t give patients
the results they are hoping for.
Whitening creates a brighter, more esthetic
appearance by reversing the discoloration of
tooth enamel with an oxygenation process
provided by a safe peroxide gel. For at-home
whitening, patients have an initial appointment
at the dental office to take impressions so that
custom trays may be made that fit snugly around
their teeth. On a second visit, the trays are
checked to ensure comfortable fit, to review
instructions on usage, and to take photographs
that document the starting color of teeth. Each
day (after thorough brushing and flossing) a
small quantity of a whitening gel is placed into
the custom trays which are then placed over the
teeth. Most commonly, the trays are worn for an
hour or two. This is done over a period of two
to four weeks or until the desired result is
achieved.
In-office whitening is the most efficient
means of whitening, as you can have your teeth
whitened in one session. The in-office procedure
uses stronger concentrations that are applied to
the teeth for a short time and strictly
controlled by the Dentist. This may be done
alone or in combination with the at-home
process.
Teeth whitening is not permanent but annual
touchups of only a few days at a time can
maintain the original whitened result for quite
some time. One of our cosmetic dentists can give
you more detailed information and help you
decide which method is more suitable for you and
your teeth.
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