Tooth Whitening ( Bleaching )
Bleaching is a common and popular chemical process used to whiten teeth. Some people get their teeth bleached to make stains disappear, while other just want a whiter shade. Unlike whitening toothpastes that remove stains to reveal the underlying whiteness of teeth, bleaching agents do actually make teeth whiter.
Discoloration occurs in the enamel and can be caused by medication, coffee, tea and cigarettes. Discoloration also can be caused by your genetic make-up or simply getting older !
Bleaching can be performed by your dentist in the office or, under dental supervision, at home. Many patients enjoy bleaching at home because it is more convenient. Treatment begins when your dentist creates a custom mouthpiece to ensure the correct amount of whitening solution-10 percent to 20 percent carbamide peroxide-is used and that your teeth are properly exposed. Typically, whitening at home can take up to 1-2 weeks, but often only a few days, depending on the original shade of your teeth, and the desired shade that needs to be achieved.
An increasing number of patients today are opting for quick, in-office bleaching. Whitening in the office may call for one or more (30-45 minute) visits to your dentist's office.
A major side-effect of tooth bleaching is the increased tooth sensitivity immediately following the procedure. Usually this subsides within a few days. There is some evidence to suggest that " in-office" bleaching may produce more tooth sensitivity in certain patients, however, with the continued improvement in the quality of bleaching materials, equipment, and techniques, these side-effect should be kept to a minimum. In general, bleaching is a safe, relatively-inexpensive, and effective cosmetic treatment.
However, while tooth bleaching creates white smiles, people are sometimes disappointed with the results. The reason for this is that they have unrealistic expectations ! Many expect their teeth to be as white as Copy Paper after the procedure. Even at their whitest, however, your teeth can not approach this degree of whiteness. Teeth that look like this would appear very unnatural !
Overall, you need to be aware of TWO main issues when bleaching your teeth..
1. Some people have tooth colored fillings in their teeth that match their yellow teeth before the bleaching. After the bleaching, the teeth whiten but the fillings stay the same color. Consequently, these fillings will need to be replaced at an extra cost after the bleaching is completed. Additionally, crowns or porcelain restorations in conspicuous areas will not lighten from bleaching and may not match the shade of your newly bleached teeth.
2. Another word of caution - those people with sensitive teeth or with gum disease should avoid bleaching procedures. Some people can even experience considerable discomfort when bleaching sensitive teeth or when applying bleaching agent to gums damaged by gum disease !
At SDOC, we provide both methods of Tooth whitening (Home Bleaching and in-office bleaching), using well-known and certified bleaching systems such as
Opalescence (UltraDent) and the new
ZOOM! Advanced Power (Discus Dental) , according to our patients limitations and needs.
Your dentist can advise you on the best approach to bleaching your teeth, after a thorough examination of your condition.
