Learn All About Teeth Whitening
A white and flashy smile is what most of us hope to achieve. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when trying to achieve that fresh and white look.
Does Whitening Damage Teeth?
When whitening procedures are correctly performed, and according to the product instructions, damage will not occur to the teeth. However, overuse of whitening products, especially over the counter products can have adverse effects such as overly sensitive teeth or damaged gums.
Types Of Whitening Products
Whitening Toothpaste – There are many whitening kinds of toothpaste available. However, they all differ
concerning the level of abrasiveness. Whitening toothpaste that is highly abrasive will damage your tooth’s enamel with continued use. It is best to select toothpaste that has a seal of approval from the Canadian Dental Association (CDA).
Mouthrinses With Whitening Ingredients – Since mouth rinses are only kept in the mouth for short periods before they are expelled, it is not likely that they will have a dramatic effect on whitening your teeth aside from removing some surface stains.
Over The Counter Whitening Strips – Similar to over the counter mouthrinses and whitening toothpaste, these whitening strips can produce some whitening results. Most whitening strips use hydrogen peroxide as the main whitening agent. The concentration or strength of this ingredient varies by whitening strip brand. It is important to note that accidental contact of the whitening agent with gum tissue can cause gum irritation or burning. Like whitening toothpaste, usage of these products should be followed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and should not be over used.
Professional Take-Home Whitening Trays – These whitening trays are custom-made by your dental office. They require a dental impression to be taken of your teeth so that a whitening tray can be made that will fit your mouth perfectly. Your dental professional will provide you with a professional grade whitening gel that uses a higher concentration of whitening agents than can be found in over the counter products. It is vital that you follow the instructions given to you to avoid irritation to your gums when using these higher
concentration whitening products. This method produces excellent results at home but requires multiple applications to get the desired shade you are aiming for. Your dental will discuss what kind of whitening shade improvements you can expect when using this method.
In-Office Professional Whitening – This whitening method is best for patients who are looking for dramatic results in one visit. This type of whitening is usually done over two to three applications in one appointment. The appointment can take an hour or a little more to complete all the whitening applications. A special light is used to activate the whitening agent while you are in the dental chair. There is usually less sensitivity associated with this method because the whitening gel is applied correctly by your dental professional.
Dental Considerations
For some patients, whitening may not be recommended or may not produce the intended results. Patients with a large amount of dental fillings or dental crowns should be aware that whitening products will not be able to change the shade of those restored teeth. Only the natural teeth will experience changes in shade.
Patients who experience tooth sensitivity may experience increased sensitivity with the use of whitening agents. Patients who have dental recession or exposed tooth roots may also experience increased sensitivity
during whitening treatment. Patients who constantly experience tooth sensitivity should try using a toothpaste designed to treat teeth sensitivity for around three weeks prior to beginning whitening treatment and after whitening treatment to minimize the sensation of sensitivity in the teeth.
If you have any questions about whitening treatment or would like to learn how professional whitening treatment can improve your smile, contact us now to schedule an appointment or consultation.
In-Office Professional Whitening – This whitening method is best for patients who are looking for dramatic results in one visit. This type of whitening is usually done over two to three applications in one appointment. The appointment can take an hour or a little more to complete all the whitening applications. A special light is used to activate the whitening agent while you are in the dental chair. There is usually less sensitivity associated with this method because the whitening gel is applied correctly by your dental professional.
Dental Considerations
For some patients, whitening may not be recommended or may not produce the intended results. Patients with a large amount of dental fillings or dental crowns should be aware that whitening products will not be able to change the shade of those restored teeth. Only the natural teeth will experience changes in shade.
Patients who experience tooth sensitivity may experience increased sensitivity with the use of whitening agents. Patients who have dental recession or exposed tooth roots may also experience increased sensitivity during whitening treatment. Patients who constantly experience tooth sensitivity should try using a toothpaste designed to treat teeth sensitivity for around three weeks prior to beginning whitening treatment and after whitening treatment to minimize the sensation of sensitivity in the teeth.
If you have any questions about whitening treatment or would like to learn how professional whitening treatment can improve your smile, contact us now to schedule an appointment or consultation.