| Bleaching - (Tooth Whitening) | Crowns, Bridges and Dentures (Prosthodontics) |
| Dental Hygiene | Extractions / Wisdom Teeth |
| Fillings | Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease) |
| Root Canals | TMJ |
| Veneers |
Bleaching / Teeth
Whitening
Oxygenating and conditioning the teeth with an acid based gel.
Teeth Whitening is actually a bleaching process that lightens discolorations of the enamel. Tooth bleaching is offered for cosmetic purposes. Many individuals who have discolored enamel are not satisfied with the appearance of their teeth and go to great lengths to achieve the perfect smile. Tooth bleaching can be a solution.
This can be done by a dental professional in the dental office or at home. Many over-the-counter products such as 'whitening' toothpastes and gels are ineffective because they contain a low percentage of carbamide peroxide, and are not used in a concentrated form directly on the teeth. Any person considering using home bleaching products should seek advice from an oral health professional such as your dental hygienist or dentist. This visit is crucial as home bleaching treatments may not be effective or preferable for every individual. For the best and safest results, the individual should be monitored by an oral health professional throughout either home bleaching or professionally applied treatments. Dr. Lee recommends custom bleaching treatments and professional strength bleach.
There are many causes - the most common include: aging, consumption
of staining substances (coffee, tea, colas, tobacco), trauma, tetracycline
(antibiotic) staining, excessive fluoride, nerve degeneration and old fillings.
There are two types of tooth stains:
Intrinsic
stain (internal stain) This means the stain occurs from within the tooth.
This type of stain cannot be removed by brushing and flossing and sometimes
bleaching may not be effective. Some causes of intrinsic staining are injury
to the tooth, certain medications (such as tetracycline) taken during tooth
formation or an excess fluoride ingested during the formation of teeth.
Extrinsic
stain (external stain) This is staining of the tooth surface. Some sources
of extrinsic stains are cigarettes, cigars, coffee, tea, or foods that contain
a lot of spices. This type of staining can sometimes be removed by good tooth
brushing habits or by professional prophylaxis (cleaning).
How does it work? The bleaching gel is placed in a thin custom fitted bleaching tray that fits over your teeth. As the active ingredient in the gel, carbamide peroxide, is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and bleaches the colored substances. The structure of the tooth is not changed; only the tooth color is made lighter. Results are usually seen within the first couple of days. Maximum results generally occur when the process is continued for 10 to 14 days.
How long do the results last? The teeth will always be lighter than they were. However, some patients may need periodic re-bleaching for one or two sessions every 4-12 months.
Who benefits from bleaching? Almost everyone, however, there are some cases where the treatment may not be effective. We can make this determination for you with the help of a thorough oral examination and diagnosis. The tooth-lightening system is ideal for patients who have healthy, unrestored teeth and would like to have a white, brighter smile. Different stains require different solutions, therefore it is important to have a consultation with an oral health professional.
Side Effects? Some people experience increased tooth sensitivity from cold liquids. Others have reported temporary discomfort, such as gum or tooth sensitivity. These symptoms always disappear within 1-3 days after interruption or completion of the treatment.
Is the process safe? Research indicates that whitening teeth with carbamide peroxide under the supervision of a dentist is safe for teeth and gums. A small number of people experience temporary discomfort during the bleaching treatment series, such as gum or tooth sensitivity. These symptoms disappear within one to three days after completion of the treatment. Overall, tooth bleaching under professional supervision is an effective method for whitening the teeth.
Copyright © 2001 T.O.C. All rights reserved. ®
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
 |
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
