What is tooth whitening?
There are many new and safe techniques available today for tooth whitening. The most common method used is the “in-office” – method where a strong bleaching agent is placed over the isolated teeth and a special light is used to assist the bleaching material. This method is more controlled and probably better for people who have stains or streaks on their teeth. The “at home” techniques involve making trays which are filled with bleaching materials and fit into the mouth. When worn for a few hours a day, noticeable results are seen within a few days. Results vary from individual to individual.
What causes staining?
The most common include aging, consumption of staining substances (coffee, tea, soda, tobacco, blueberries etc.), and old fillings. During tooth formation, excessive fluoride may also cause tooth discoloration.
Who benefits from tooth whitening?
Anyone with healthy teeth will benefit from tooth whitening. There is no downside to whitening and many benefits. If you do not have any fillings or crowns on front teeth, you will benefit from tooth whitening by having a whiter, younger smile.
Is it safe?
Whitening is gentle and safe when supervised by a dentist. In fact, dentist-supervised whitening has been done for nearly a century, but has increased in popularity in recent years as yellowed teeth are becoming less and less acceptable, both socially and professionally. Procedures have been simplified and shown to be safe. Reports that claim that the bleaching gel will destroy your enamel are not true. The bleaching process causes no long term harmful effects to your teeth or gums.
How long does it take?
With in-office bleaching the results are instantaneous but for maximum whitening, two sessions are required. With tray bleaching most people will notice a change in the color of their teeth the first night they bleach. Tray bleaching takes about 7-10 days to complete.
Are there side effects?
Some people may experience sensitivity to cold while bleaching. This disappears soon after the treatment is finished. However you can decrease the frequency of wearing the trays to cut down or eliminate the symptoms. It is important to note that all symptoms are temporary while you are bleaching. There are no long term harmful effects to bleaching.
How long will results last?
Teeth will stay bleached permanently. However, you may need a touch up treatment once every 6 months. If you smoke, drink tea, coffee, or red wine, your teeth will stain faster.
You can help your teeth remain white by brushing twice a day, cleaning between the teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners, seeing your dentist for regular professional cleanings along with occasional touch-up treatments
What is the difference between dentist-supervised and over-the counter treatments?
Your teeth are unique – this is why the safety of your treatment requires a dentist’s evaluation and supervision. You’ll also find that custom trays designed by the dentist will fit far better thus producing better results. The unsupervised, over-the-counter, one-size-fits-all treatment alternatives work, but it is definitely better to see a professional.
Will the whitening damage my teeth?
No. The whitening process will not affect your teeth’s. Claims that bleaching will harm your enamel, immediately or eventually, are simply not true.
How long will it last?
Non-smokers who don’t drink coffee or tea often see little or no change over five years. As long as you brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly, and see a dentist twice a year, the results will last.