The Many Shades of Whiter Teeth |
| Posted by Dr. Alan Pressman (dr.p.dmd) on Oct 15 2010 |
| Blog >> 2010 |
In the world of cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening gives the consumer the “biggest bang for his buck.” Many whitening products are available, including those available over the counter, on-line, and from your dentist, so how do you choose what is best for you?
The natural process of aging can produce discoloration. Stains accumulate because the teeth have been exposed over long periods to a variety of things (e.g., tobacco, food) that can discolor them. Micro-fractures and chips that are more common with age tend to collect stains readily. Also your diet can affect the brightness of your teeth. The following are examples of things that can discolor your smile: Tobacco, red wine, tea, coffee, soy sauce, and tomato sauce--anything that can stain a white t-shirt can stain your teeth.
Bleaching is one way to whiten teeth. If you are considering bleaching, first you need to determine the actual color of your teeth. If you have any silver fillings, they should be changed after you bleach, as they tend to make the tooth appear dark and gray. A dentist can tell you your initial tooth color. More than 95% of the population have one of 4 principal color groups (and roughly 16 shades): Brown, yellow, gray, and reddish-gray.
During bleaching, a form of hydrogen peroxide diffuses directly into, and through, stains on the tooth surface. The diffused peroxide removes internal discoloration by oxidizing colored compounds. They become colorless, making the teeth appear whiter.
Just a few of the options that I offer include chairside bleaching, with the use of custom trays; trayless bleaching (which still provides a better result than over-the-counter methods); and bleach pens. Chair-side bleaching is the most effective and offers instant gratification. It usually takes between 1½ and 2 hours. Among the bleaching choices, this office-based procedure shows dramatic effects fastest, has the least tendency to fade, and is the longest lasting.
Whitening has little or no effect on fillings and other materials; therefore, they usually have to be changed after bleaching.
Many people may experience some discomfort after whitening. This can apply to any effective whitening procedure (whether in-office to over-the-counter). Typically, people may experience some intermittent tooth discomfort for 24 to 48 hours after undergoing the procedure. Usually, I recommend a prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste used for 4 to 6 weeks before using any bleaching system. This will eliminate or at least lessen the “post-bleaching zingers.” This treatment should be continued after bleaching. When performing an office-based bleaching procedure, I use post-op desensitizing treatments of amorphous calcium phosphate, which helps to strengthen the enamel. I also recommend taking over-the-counter dose of anti-inflammatory drugs like Motrin® prior to treatment.
Once patients undergo any bleaching process, whitening toothpastes and power toothbrushes should be used to inhibit surface stains and prolong the benefit. Periodic touch-ups should be performed (every 3-6 months) in order to maintain the whiteness of your teeth.
Finally, stay away from acidic foods, as they can cause tooth sensitivity and decay. Good oral hygiene and a good diet are crucial to keeping the sensitivity under control.
Bleaching has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Certain bleaching procedures have been found to actually reduce the incidence of gum disease and cavities. Although safe and effective procedure for some types of discoloration in adults, it should not be tried on children under 16 years old (in younger patients, bleaching can lead to premature nerve death). It requires no removal of tooth structure, but it can require removal and replacement of fillings. It is associated with some minimal discomfort. It is relatively inexpensive (take home strips can be as little as $35), but successful whitening may require multiple sessions and/or take home treatments. Also, it is not always possible to achieve the exact color you want.
Having a whiter smile can really boost someone's self-esteem, but the sensitivity is a downside. And remember to watch foods, drinks, and bad habits that can produce stains.
Visit a dentist to see if bleaching is right for you.
Last changed: Oct 15 2010 at 3:54 AM
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