Whether it’s an individual tooth, or many teeth, discoloration can be caused by many different factors. Caffeine use, food, age, and tobacco products are common causes of stains and discoloration on teeth. People with stained or dull teeth usually benefit from professional teeth whitening. This is a safe procedure that effectively brightens and improves your smile.
In general, teeth bleaching products are the most effective way to whiten your teeth. The bleaching products contain peroxides which change the color of your natural tooth anywhere from five to seven shades brighter. In some instances, the tooth can be whitened up to twelve shades brighter with professional whitening services.
This process, known as chair side bleaching, is an effective way to brighten your smile in a healthy and safe setting. Your dentist will perform an evaluation to ensure teeth bleaching products are the best fit. An x-ray of your teeth may be needed to accurately give an assessment of your teeth. In some cases of serious discoloration and pitted teeth, veneers may be more appropriate than bleaching. Crowns, bridges, and fillings do not bleach. It may be necessary to replace dental work to make it blend naturally with the new color of your bleached teeth.
During a professional tooth whitening session, a protective gel or rubber shield will be applied to protect the soft tissues in the mouth. A bleaching agent will then be applied to the teeth. A special light is used to enhance the chemical action.
If your teeth aren’t very dark and have minimal staining, only one bleach session may be needed to get the desired results. Your dentist will give you a treatment plan based on the amount of sessions needed.
Based on the care and treatment of your teeth, results from professional teeth whitening may last up to a year before a touch-up is needed. Certain activities can lead to discoloration such as tobacco use, caffeine, and foods. Once the initial treatment is applied, results can be maintained with regular touch-ups.
In general, bleaching works for most people. Tooth bleaching is most effective if your teeth are darkened from age, coffee, tea or smoking. Teeth darkened with the color of yellow, brown or orange respond better to lightening. Other types of gray stains caused by fluoroscopic, smoking or tetracycline can be lightened, but with less-than- satisfactory results.
Getting your teeth professionally whitened by your dentist can provide customized treatments. Whitening is not a one-size-fits-all solution. You may have a preference or specific areas that need treatment the most.
Teeth whitening in the dentist office can give you whiter teeth in about an hour. This is a faster alternative to at home treatments over multiple sessions.
Professional whitening is a safer alternative. Over-the-counter whitening treatments can harm your gum tissue or cause sensitivity. A professional treatment offers a safer and more comfortable treatment.
Professional teeth whitening can provide a stronger and more thorough whitening. Tough stains may need a professional treatment to be removed.
Results can be varied from person to person. In general, professional teeth whitening sessions see better results than over the counter treatments.
The dentist will use a protective film over your gums to prevent any sensitivities. Most patients experience no sensitivities or pain.
Teeth whitening lasts the longest when patients maintain their dental hygiene. It is best to avoid tobacco use, teeth staining food and drinks, and continue regular dental cleanings. In-office results can last several months to a year.
