In-office teeth whitening is the best method for improving the aesthetic appearance of neglected, yellowed teeth. Results can be very dramatic and long-lasting, but undergoing the procedure will require some guidance from your dental professional. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about in-office teeth whitening.
What causes tooth discoloration?
Tooth enamel is actually a porous tissue that over time can absorb pigments from the food you eat and beverages you drink. Cutting down on tea, soda, coffee, and wine can greatly reduce the amount of discoloration you experience. However, aging and gradual discoloration can occur from eating normal foods as well.
How will I prepare my teeth for in-office teeth whitening?
Typically, you will schedule a consultation with your
dental professional before undergoing any whitening procedure. Your dentist will conduct an exam and ensure your teeth are healthy enough for the chemicals used in the whitening. A cleaning is also often performed before the whitening, so scheduling the procedure at the same time as your normal checkup may be best.
Why is in-office teeth whitening better than in-home methods?
In-office teeth whitening procedures provide far more dramatic results that last much longer than any treatment you may find in your local pharmacy. This is due to the stronger levels of peroxide and bleach that are able to be used, but are not allowed to be sold over-the-counter.
Is the procedure safe?
In-office teeth whitening is very safe, as recent advancements have allowed for bleaching solutions that limit irritation in the gums and mouth.
What type of discoloration will in-office teeth whitening procedures be ineffective in treating?
Tooth discoloration resulting from long-term antibiotic use during dental development is typically not treatable with in-office teeth whitening procedures. Inorganic stains or discolored teeth resulting from trauma are also not typically ideal candidates for the procedure. If this is the case for your teeth, you may want to consider
porcelain veneers instead.
Other types of discolorations which will not respond to an in-office teeth whitening treatment include those resulting from overexposure to fluoride. Also, the front teeth may become translucent in older age, and this cannot be fixed with a whitening treatment.