Tooth Whitening/Bleaching
What Causes Tooth Discoloration?
There are numerous reasons teeth lose their shiny original white glow and become a duller, yellow shade.
• Tobacco: Tar and nicotine are the two (2) teeth-staining culprits found in tobacco. Tar is naturally dark, while nicotine remains colorless until it combines with oxygen. That combination results in yellow stains on teeth.
• Age: The tough outer layer of your teeth, known as enamel, can thin out over time due to brushing. That allows a tooth’s dentin, the layer just below the enamel, to show. Dentin has a yellowish tinge to it.
• Food and Drink: Drinks such as coffee, tea, and wine are known culprits of tooth discoloration. Certain drinks, like soda and juice, and certain fruits and vegetables, are considered acidic. Acidic substances lead to discolored teeth.
• Lack of Oral Hygiene: Not regularly brushing your teeth, flossing, and otherwise caring for your mouth can lead to teeth stains. Not removing the substances left behind by food and drink often causes stains.
• Medications: This includes certain chemotherapy medications, certain medications used for asthma, certain medications used to manage epilepsy, and certain high blood pressure medications.
• Specific Diseases: Diseases and health issues that may contribute to yellow teeth include dentinogenesis imperfecta, amelogenesis imperfecta, and other illnesses
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Some risks can result from the teeth whitening process. The two (2) most common side effects are increased, albeit temporary, tooth sensitivity and soft tissue irritation in the mouth. The tooth sensitivity comes from the bleaching/whitening treatment, while the tissue irritation develops from the mouthpiece tray. Whitening products supplied by a dentist’s office and those applied during an office visit all have the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance.
Types of whitening/bleaching treatments available at Your Smile Bel Air Family Dentistry.
In-Office Professional Teeth Whitening
• Teeth whitening gel contains potassium nitrate and fluoride for patient comfort
• Noticeable whitening results in about an hour
• Vegan—no animal products used
• Certified gluten free
• Chemically activated whitening, which means no hot, uncomfortable LED teeth whitening lights are needed
Typical Steps Include:
1. An initial shade will be taken of your teeth.
2. A protective barrier will be used to prevent the teeth whitening gel from irritating your gums.
3. Your dentist will apply Opalescence Boost teeth whitening gel with a gentle, brushed tip.
4. You’ll see results in about an hour!
Take Home Tray Whitening
With teeth whitening trays hand sculpted to fit your smile, you can expect customized professional teeth whitening experience in the comfort of your own home. Plus, you’ll have the flexibility to whiten when you want, day or night.
• Convenient wear times as short as 15 minutes per day, or as long as overnight
• Teeth whitening gel contains potassium nitrate and fluoride for patient comfort
• Vegan—no animal products used
• Certified gluten free
• Certified kosher
Typical Steps Include:
1. Express one continuous bead of teeth whitening gel approximately 1/3 to 1/2 of the syringe.
2. Place teeth whitening tray over teeth. Gently press tray to move teeth whitening gel into place. Pressing too firmly will force gel out of tray. Wear times will vary.
3. Remove excess teeth whitening gel from gums using a soft toothbrush.
4. Clean teeth whitening tray with soft brush and warm water. Store tray in the case that came with your kit.