Tooth whitening is a straightforward, non-invasive dental treatment used to modify the colour of natural dentine and is an ideal way to improve the great thing about your grin.
Having fresher looking teeth has become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of paths to whiter teeth. The most favored system is the use of an at home tooth lightening system, which will whiten teeth significantly. Since tooth whitening only works on natural teeth enamel, it is important to gauge replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they may match the recently bleached teeth.
Tooth whitening is not permanent. A touch-up maybe required each one or two years, and more frequently if you smoke; drink coffee, tea, or wine.
Reasons for tooth whitening:
- Fluorosis (exorbitant fluoridation during tooth development)
- Standard wears of outer tooth layer
- Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, and so on.)
- Yellow, brown tarnished teeth
What does tooth lightening involve?
To set up this type of tooth whitening system, the dentist generally requires two visits from you. At the 1st appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to create custom, clear plastic, trays. At your second appointment, you may try on the trays for proper fit, and corrections will be made if required. These trays are to be worn with special bleaching solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a few weeks depending on the degree of stain to the teeth and desired level of whitening. It is common to experience tooth sensitivity in the time you are lightening your teeth, however it will go down directly after you’ve stopped bleaching.
You will receive care directions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a stunning, healthy, white smile.
To learn more about Whitening, visit Cochrane Dentist in Absolute Dental Care.