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All of us would like to pose for a picture. When it is “Say Cheese” some of us go “mmm” than “eeeee”. We are so cautious of the fact that we don’t want others to see our soiled tooth. When we find someone with a great smile, we sigh and say to ourselves “I wish my teeth were like his”. But what do you know, you van still make someone say that with you.
With a variety of tooth whitening methods available, whitening your teeth has never been more accessible. Are you dreaming of a white smile? Before considering whitening your teeth, book an appointment for a check-up and cleaning with your dentist. Surface stains will need to be removed before whitening to achieve optimum results. Your dentist will then determine if you are a candidate for tooth whitening.
Circumstances that may prevent the use of tooth whitening product are:
Teeth that have restorations such as veneers or having been bonded with white fillings cannot be whitened. These materials do not whiten past the color they were originally made. The surrounding teeth determined the color of these types of restorations. Teeth that have internal staining, discoloration from developmental conditions or has been the typical whitening process may not be affected by the root canalled.
Natural tooth colors that are brown or gray in hue may not produce desired results. Typically, teeth with a yellow hue will produce the best results.
Pregnant or nursing mothers should avoid whitening their teeth, as there is not enough research to determine the safety of tooth whitening products during pregnancy or lactation.
People with hypersensitive teeth should avoid tooth whitening, because this process may enhance the level of sensitivity they experience.
How Are Teeth Whitened?
The first layer of tooth surface, is actually semi-translucent, or clear. The layer underneath the enamel, known as dentin, is typically yellow, but may be gray, brown or black. This hue is what is seen penetrating through the enamel. In order to whiten the dentin, a peroxide solution is placed on the enamel. This process opens the pores of the enamel, allowing the solution to reach the layer of dentin. The solution will then begin to lighten the dentin, resulting in the appearance of whiter teeth.
 Side Effects of Tooth Whitening:
Most people are satisfied with the results, while others may encounter one or more of the following, but not limited to:
Tooth sensitivity may be noticed during the process of whitening, and for a short period after the procedure due to the exposure of the dentin layer. People with tooth sensitivity prior to whitening should consult their dentist for options or brands that may help alleviate the increased level of sensitivity during the process.
Soft tissue irritation, known as a chemical burn, may occur if the whitening solution is exposed to these areas.
Depending on the initial shade of the tooth, the results may not be favorable, meaning some tooth colors will not lighten to shades of white, and may appear gray or translucent.
It is important to have realistic expectations when evaluating your final results; it may take several treatments to achieve a whiter smile. Whitening results may not be permanent, as your teeth will naturally pick up stain from foods or beverages or from tobacco use. Remember to brush and floss daily, and visit your dentist for regular cleanings and examinations.
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