What is Tooth Whitening?
Tooth whitening is a process of lightening the colour of teeth. The solutions employed have been used in dentistry for many years.
The whitening process is most effective on mildly discoloured teeth. Darker stains, such as those caused by antibiotics, take longer to respond to treatment. The degree of whiteness will vary from patient to patient, depending on the structure of the teeth and the duration of the time and system used.
It's actually a bleaching process that lightens discolourations of enamel and dentin. The system uses a mild solution retained in a custom-fitted appliance that is worn over your teeth.
Tooth Whitening FAQs
What causes tooth discolouration?
Who may benefit from tooth whitening?
What causes tooth discolouration?
There are many causes. The most common include aging, consumption
of coffee, tea, colas and smoking.
Who may benefit from tooth whitening?
Almost everyone. However, there are some cases where treatment
may not be effective. Dr. Syrtash must determine if you are a
good candidate for home bleaching through a thorough oral
examination and diagnosis. Tooth lightening is ideal for patients
who have healthy, unrestored teeth (no fillings) and who would
like a brighter smile.
Research indicates that whitening teeth with 10 to 16% carbamide
or hydrogen peroxide under the supervision of a dentist is
completely safe for your teeth and gums.
A bleaching gel is placed in a thin bleaching tray that fits over
the teeth. As the active ingredient in the gel, carbamide or
hydrogen peroxide, is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and
dentin, and bleaches the colored substances. The tooth colour is
made lighter.
Results are usually seen within the first week. Maximum results
occur over the next 14-21 days.
Some people experience increased tooth sensitivity to cold during
treatment. Others have reported discomfort in the gums or a sore
throat. These symptoms always disappear within 1-3 days after
stopping or completion of treatment.
The teeth will be lighter than they were. Some patients may need
periodic re-bleaching.
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