Teeth whitening is a very popular cosmetic procedure. Most people want to whiten their teeth for a whiter and brighter smile. There are different options to achieve the smile. Dental professionals educate their patients about their teeth and assess whether teeth whitening is an appropriate option to achieve the white smile. Here are some of the frequently asked questions by the patients about teeth whitening:
What are the different options of teeth whitening?
· The use of over the counter whitening products is one of the most popular options to whiten the teeth. They are available everywhere and can be purchased at the drug stores and on-line. The American Dental Association cautions patients to use accepted whitening products under professional supervision for safety.
1. Whitening toothpastes rely on mild abrasives to remove surface stains
2. Whitening strips rely on peroxide to bleach teeth. They are clear strips that adhere onto the teeth (6 upper and 6 lower front teeth) for about 30 minutes a day for one to two weeks.
3. Brush-On Whitening products are painted directly onto the teeth with a small brush and sometimes are left overnight.
· Bleaching trays-Dental staff takes impressions of the upper & lower teeth to fabricate bleaching trays. The whitening gel is loaded into the custom fitted bleaching trays for the upper and lower teeth. Depending on the varying concentration of the bleaching ingredients, the treatment can be completed in one to two weeks.
· In-office (chair side) Whitening is performed in the dental office for about 60-90 minutes. Prior to the procedure, an informed consent discussion form is reviewed and signed. The discussions include patient’s diagnosis, proposed treatment, risks & benefits, pre-existing condition/shade of teeth, and patients’ expectations prior to treatment. There are several teeth whitening products available to dentists. These products contain hydrogen peroxide in concentrations ranging from 10 percent to 40 percent. Whitening results may vary depending on the conditions of patients’ teeth.
Should I whiten my teeth? Am I a candidate for teeth whitening procedure?
Most people will notice some improvement of whitening of their teeth. If the teeth surface stains caused by coffee and tea and the discoloration are yellow, brown, or orange, you are likely a good candidate for teeth whitening. If the discoloration is gray and it is caused by the use of tetracycline (antibiotic) and fluoride while teeth are forming, the whitening may not be as effective. Talk to your dentist before the whitening procedure and discuss your expectations.
· How long do the teeth whitening effects last?
Teeth whitening is not permanent. People who eat foods and drink beverages that cause staining may notice the whiteness start to fade in as little as one month.
· What kind of foods do people avoid so whitening lasts longer?
Tea, coffee, chocolate, blackberries, soda, wine and others
· How often does the teeth whitening need to be touched up?
People who avoid foods and beverages that stain teeth may be able to wait one year or longer before another whitening procedure or touch-up is needed.
· What can people do to maintain their bright smile?
1. Brush or rinse immediately after consuming stain-causing foods and beverages
2. Brush 2x/day and floss daily. Use a whitening toothpaste 1-2x/week only to remove surface stains and use regular toothpaste the rest of the time.
3. Regular dental checkup and dental cleaning at minimal every 6 months
What are the risks associated with teeth whitening?
The two side effects that may occur are temporary tooth sensitivity and mild irritation of gum tissues during and after the whitening procedure. Irritation of gum tissues is probably caused by the bleaching gel leaking through the barrier during the bleaching procedure. Both the tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are temporary and resolves shortly after the end of the procedure.
If patients continue to have tooth sensitivity after the treatment, your dentist may recommend toothpaste that contains potassium nitrate to relieve the tooth sensitivity.
· Does teeth whitening damage tooth enamel?
No, studies show that whitening products that contain 10% of carbamide peroxide showed no effect on the hardness or mineral content of a tooth’s enamel surface.
· Does teeth whitening damage existing dental restorations (fillings/crowns)?
No, clinical studies showed that over 10 years use of whitening products that contain 10% carbamide peroxide cause no damage to existing restoration, such as fillings or crowns.
· Does teeth whitening cause damage to a tooth’s nerve?
No, there is no evidence to date that whitening products cause harmful effect on the health of a tooth’s nerve.
· Will my teeth and gums be sensitive after whitening?
Sometimes after whitening procedure, teeth and gums can be sensitive. Contact your dentist about the tooth and gum sensitivity.
Will insurance cover the teeth whitening procedure?
Most likely not, teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure. Contact your dental insurance and find out about your benefit coverage.
Patients are so happy and excited when they see their whiter and brighter looking teeth and smile. It is the greatest reward for a dental professional as me to share that joy and happiness with my patients. I love to share that joy with you. If you have any questions about teeth whitening, please contact the office for a free consultation at 626-335-5114 or visit us www.annaleedds.com
