About Teeth Whitening

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is a process of removing stains that stick on to the enamel, it is bleaching process used to get rid of the discoloration of the teeth. There are different ways of teeth whitening, some people go for bleaching sessions at the dental clinic, and few people go for cosmetic treatment. Teeth whitening treatment is not permanent, though the results are effective and noticeable. It requires a lot of care and oral hygiene.

What are tooth stains?

There are 2 types of staining of teeth: extrinsic and intrinsic staining.

Extrinsic stains appear on the teeth surface .The main reason for this is exposure/drinking dark-colored beverages, tobacco, food and routine wearing of teeth. Minor stains can be removed while brushing .Some stains are stubborn and require teeth bleaching. Persistent stains penetrate deep inside the teeth and require special efforts to get removed and if proper attention is not paid such stains can become permanent.

Intrinsic stains appear inside the teeth. Such stains result from aging, trauma, exposure to minerals at the time of tooth formation /excessive intake of fluoride through injection. Earlier it was believed that intrinsic stains could not be removed by bleaching, but now cosmetic dentistry has changed this thinking and doctors believe that deep stains in the teeth can also be removed with the help of take home teeth whitening and regular supervision of the dentist.

What are the teeth whitening options available?

There are 3 main whitening options:-

In-Office

Such type of whitening gives significant results in very less time. High concentration of peroxide gel is used on teeth after the gums are protected with applying paint on a rubber dam. Stubborn stains may require one more session.

Take-Home Whitening Kits

Such professional kits use lower concentration of peroxide gel, but gives great results after a long time. The gel is applied with the help of custom made trays (bleaching trays) that look like mouth guards.

What does the procedure involve?

In a live tooth the dentist applies the whitening product using a specially made tray which fits into the mouth like a gum shield. The chemical is then activated using heat, or heat and light combined. The active ingredient in the product is normally hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. If the tooth has been root treated, the canal, which previously contained the nerve, may be reopened and the whitening product is put in. In both cases, the procedure needs to be repeated until the right shade is reached.

How long does the procedure take?

First of all you will need 2 or 3 visits to your dentist. Your dentist will need to make a mouthguard and will need to take impressions for this at the first appointment. Once your dentist has started the treatment, you will have to continue the treatment at home. This will mean applying the bleach regularly over 2-4 weeks for 30 minutes to 1 hour at a time. However, some newer products can be applied for up to 8 hours at a time, which means that a satisfactory result can be obtained in as little as 1 week.

Why would my teeth need to be bleached?

Everyone is different; and just as our hair and skin colour varies, so do our teeth. Some teeth have a yellowish tinge, some are more beige - very few are actually 'white'. Teeth also yellow with age can become stained on the surface by food and drinks such as tea, coffee and blackcurrant. Calculus (tartar) can also affect the colour of the teeth. Some people may have staining inside their teeth. This can be caused by certain antibiotics or tiny cracks in

Will I be happy with the results?

Treatment results may vary depending on the original shade of the teeth. Teeth will tend to darken slightly over time. The effect lasts for around 1 to 3 years, although sometimes it can last longer. Some people find that their teeth are sensitive for the first few days after treatment, but this wears off after a short while.

What are the risks involved?

• Bleaching can result in temporary sensitivity in the teeth to hot/cold, touch and pressure.
• Gum irritation is a common feature and it tends to last for say a week.
• Bonding, crowns, veneers and restoration are not affected by bleaching and these results in Technicolor teeth.

When Might Whitening not work?

Whitening can only lighten your existing tooth colour. For a change to specific chosen shade veneering is another option. Whitening also works on natural teeth. It will not work on any type of 'false' teeth. This includes dentures, crowns and veneers. If dentures are stained or discoloured, it may be worth visiting the dentist and asking him or her to clean them. Stained veneers, crowns and dentures may need replacing. Again, ask your dentist.

What about whitening toothpaste?

There are now several whitening toothpastes you can buy. Although they do not affect the natural colour of the tooth, they are effective at removing staining and therefore improving the overall appearance of the tooth. Whitening toothpaste may also help to keep up the appearance, once teeth have been professionally whitened.

How do I care for my teeth after whitening?

Talk to your dentist about maintaining the colour of your teeth, and the products that are available for keeping the effect. Each individual's lifestyle needs to be assessed but good oral hygiene and regular visits to the hygienist will help to maintain the effect for longer.

Some people find that their teeth are sensitive for the first few days after treatment, but this wears off after a short while. Your dentist will advise you of the products you can use to counteract this.