Guide to Tooth Whitening
Tooth whitening has become one of the most searched topics in the field of cosmetic dentistry. More than 350,000 searches are performed for teeth whitening every month in Google alone. Meanwhile, tooth whitening solutions are abundant in the marketplace - consumers literally have dozens of procedures and brands to choose from. To help you decide which tooth whitening procedure is right for you, we wanted to give you an overview of the available options to get that perfect smile, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.
How Tooth Whitening Works
With most forms of tooth whitening, oxidizing agents operate by penetrating the tooth enamel (outside surface) and evaporating the stains from within. The layer below the tooth enamel, called dentin also gets bleached over time.
Tooth Whitening Methods
There are three primary methods for whitening teeth: two are performed by a dentist while the rest are available over-the-counter and are self-administered.
In the Dentist's Chair
The first dentist-performed tooth whitening procedure is a "bleaching," performed at the office, where a highly-concentrated oxidizing agent is applied to the teeth. To prevent soft-tissue burns, the dentist covers the gums with a protective coating that is painted directly onto the gum. This process can last for over 6 months with proper maintenance (using whitening toothpaste, adequate brushing, etc.). Tooth whitening is rarely covered by insurance carriers as it falls under cosmetic procedures, so be sure to check with your provider.
The second dentist related procedure is one that involves the doctor taking an impression of a patient's mouth. By taking a mold with specialized equipment, precise trays are produced that fit snuggly over the teeth. A take-home oxidizing agent is then applied to the inside of the trays and in-turn applied to the teeth. Results are also longer lasting than over-the-counter methods, and because the trays now belong to the patient, the procedure can be repeated as needed.
Tooth Whitening at Home
At-home tooth whitening process usually involves purchasing thin strips that are applied directly to the teeth, or a generic guard that is applied to the upper and lower teeth. A lower concentration of an oxidizing agent is applied via either vehicle for an average period of a few hours. Results of at-home tooth whitening are generally less effective than the ones performed at the dentist's office. Also, because the generic products don't always fit well for every patient, uneven application can result in various shades of whiteness across the teeth.
Side-Effects of Tooth Whitening
Although one side effect of tooth-whitening can be a more radiant smile, there are some negative ones as well. The most common "con" is tooth irritation (extreme sensitivity) that can last from a few hours to a few days. Chemical burns from the oxidizing agents can also occur if careful measures are not taken to protect the gum tissue. Consult with your dentist if you suffer from a condition like recessed gums or if you have sensitive teeth.
Light-Based Tooth Whitening Methods & Future Products
Recently, tooth whitening with the use of light has been receiving press and advertising attention. Clinically, results for this method have showed varying results. Additionally, a product is currently under development that aims to remineralize teeth to restore whiteness. These procedures are generally not covered under insurance and can vary greatly in consumer cost.
Maintaining Your Smile
Teeth whitening can restore your confidence as well as your self-esteem. To hold on to your movie-star smile, though, it's best to avoid the things that cause tooth discoloration. Tobacco, coffee, and tea are the most likely culprits, but bacterial pigments found in common foods such as apples, blueberries, potatoes, lemons, tomato sauce or soy sauce can also cause tooth discoloration. We know it's hard to avoid all of these things, but moderation will help keep your pearly whites as pearly as they should be.
If you have any other questions or comments regarding this article, please contact us at (310) 553-2940 or by email at periodontics@earthlink.net.
Dr. Miles Madison, D.D.S., is an award-winning periodontist in Beverly Hills, California.
