Tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel that has darkened due to staining caused by coffee, tea, colas, red wine, etc. It is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.
Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth. The most popular method is using an at home tooth whitening system. Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate the possible need for replacement of any old fillings or crowns prior to starting a tooth whitening program. Replacement of any restorations is completed after bleaching so they will match your newly bleached teeth. In addition, tooth whitening can be completed in coordination with other cosmetic dental treatment procedures such as fillings, crowns, bridges and or veneers in order optimize the appearance of your smile.
It is important that a dentist evaluate your teeth prior to using a tooth whitening system as it is not recommended in patients demonstrating tooth discoloration caused by tetracycline staining, fluorosis, or excessive tooth wear. Tooth whitening is not permanent and does require some follow-up care and maintenance depending upon the amount of contact with foods and beverages that contribute to re-staining.
What does tooth whitening involve?
Professional take home tooth whitening usually requires two visits. At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic, whitening trays.
At your second appointment, you will try in the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary. The trays are worn with a highly concentrated whitening solution 15 to 30 minutes daily for up to six weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening. It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching. You will receive care instructions for your teeth and whitening trays, and are encouraged to maintain regular dental visits to help maintain your beautiful, healthy, white smile.
As dental professionals, we are often asked by our patients “How do I keep my teeth their whitest?” With the plethora of dental whitening products now being sold, it becomes difficult to determine which products are safe, effective and will work best for your mouth.
What’s best to keep teeth their whitest?
To remove external stains and keep teeth their whitest we recommend brushing at least twice daily for 2 minutes using an electric toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Braun Oral –B. The vibrating or rotating action of electric toothbrushes allow for more plaque and stain removal in the same amount of brushing time as compared to manual toothbrushes. Using a whitening toothpaste will help polish away external stains from the surfaces of the teeth. There are several whitening products on the market, however we recommend purchasing products that have the ADA (American Dental Association) seal to ensure the safety and efficacy of the ingredients. Daily flossing will prevent stains from building up between the teeth. Look for whitening flosses that are coated with abrasives to better remove external stains from in between teeth. Also, keep your recommended recall appointments with your dental hygienist to regularly remove tarter, plaque and stain that builds-up on the teeth over time.
When purchasing over the counter tooth whiteners, what ingredients should you look for in products?
Tooth whitening products contain either Carbamide Peroxide to remove internal stains (as in Crest Whitening Strips or Professional Whitening Systems) or abrasive components that remove external stains as in whitening toothpastes, rinses and gums. It is important to keep in mind that prior to purchasing any whitening product or starting any tooth whitening program, it is best to check with your dentist as he or she can help you determine the best method to help you get your desired results.
How often should you use these whitening products without overdoing it? Are there any precautions?
Home whitening systems, professional or over the counter, are generally used daily for a period of two to six weeks to obtain the desired results. The change in shade will remain for six to twelve months, at which time you may consider bleaching your teeth again for several days to regain the original effect. Common side effects of internal whitening systems include transient tooth sensitivity that generally subsides once whitening is discontinued and gum tissue irritation. Toothpastes, rinses and gums can be used daily to prevent the build up of external stains from foods and beverages. Again, all whitening products, professional or over the counter, should be used under the supervision of your dentist as unsupervised, long-term use of inappropriate whitening products can lead to irreversible damage to tooth enamel.
What type of whitening agent/system is best to use?
Depending on the type of stain, internal or external, and your specific concerns, the most effective product or method used for tooth whitening will vary. For example, all tooth whitening systems will only change the color of natural tooth enamel. Therefore, if you have crowns or fillings, it is important to note that no tooth whitening treatment will change the color of your existing dental restorations. In fact, using a whitening system may even make your crowns and/or fillings more apparent as your natural tooth color changes around them.
In terms of dental procedures, what is best for whitening?
There are several options for changing the color of your teeth and improving the look of your smile including tooth whitening, veneers, crowns and tooth colored fillings. Depending on your individual circumstances and desired results, your dentist can recommend a treatment plan to ensure you a smile you will be proud to show off.
Keeping up with your dentist’s recommended maintenance schedule is the best thing you can do to ensure the overall health of your oral cavity. Your dentist and dental hygienist should be checking your mouth routinely for signs of oral cancer, gum disease, and tooth decay, and making necessary recommendations to ensure the long-term health of your smile.