Teeth Whitening A teeth whitening procedure or bleaching simply refers to any process that will
make the teeth appear whiter. It is considered a non-invasive procedure that is
designed to whiten and brighten teeth that are stained, discolored, darkened, or
yellowed. First introduced to the public in the 1980’s, the popularity of teeth
whitening products and procedures has soared. According to a survey conducted by
the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, when respondents were asked, “What
would you like to improve most about your smile?” The most common response was:
whiter and brighter teeth.
How white a tooth appears depends upon how light is reflected and scattered off
the enamel, the outermost layer of the tooth. Teeth can look dark or discolored
for a variety of reasons, with an imperfect appearance the result of outer
surface stains or discoloration from within the tooth. While external tooth
stains are typically due to certain foods and tobacco, internal tooth
discoloration is mainly the result of hereditary factors, certain medications,
tooth decay, restorations, or trauma. Additionally, the aging process can
influence the color of a tooth. This is because over time the outer layer of
enamel becomes thinner showing more yellowish tones from the underlying layer of
dentin.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF A PROFESSIONAL TEETH WHITENING PROCEDURE PERFORMED BY
A DENTIST?
Although over the counter teeth whitening systems purchased in stores or online
have become popular, there are health concerns and limitations with these
products. If the manufacturers protocol is not correctly followed, certain
products can damage the teeth and soft tissues in the mouth, and may not deliver
the results as promised. Teeth whitening systems contain varying concentration
of either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which act as the bleaching
agents. When sensitive teeth, exposed roots, cavities, broken fillings, cracked
teeth, or loose dental work are present, a teeth whitening procedure may be
contraindicated. Also, since whitening systems do not have an effect on the
color of dental fillings, crowns or bridges the presence of restorations is an
important cosmetic consideration in treatment planning.
In general, individuals with yellow tones to their teeth respond best to teeth
whitening procedures. Brown and grayish tinted teeth bleach respond less well
and may require significantly longer dentist supervised tooth whitening regimens
or alternative cosmetic treatments. Finally, teeth whitening may not be
recommended in the presence of sensitive teeth, worn enamel and significant gum
disease.
As a rule the healthiest and most effective methods of teeth whitening are the
ones managed and supervised by the dentist. An in-office teeth whitening
procedure as performed by the dentist is the most reliable and safest way to get
the maximum results quickly. In as little as one hour a prescription-strength,
in-office whitening procedure can dramatically whiten and brighten the natural
teeth by several shades, while the surrounding tissues and any sensitive areas
of the teeth are carefully isolated and protected from the bleaching agents.
A home whitening system from the dentist along with custom trays that have been
fitted to the teeth is also an excellent option. Custom trays keep the bleaching
agent in maximum contact with the teeth and away from the other areas of the
mouth. With a take-home teeth whitening system, maximum results are less rapid
than an in office procedure and are typically achieved over a longer period of
time. A home whitening system can be used by itself or as recommended by the
dentist as a follow up to an in office procedure in order to perfect or maintain
the results.