Are You A Candidate for Tooth Whitening?

Not everyone can use tooth whitening solution. Circumstances that may prevent teeth whitening are:

• Teeth that have restorations , such as veneers or having been bonded with white fillings, cannot be whitened with hydrogen or carbamide peroxide. These materials do not whiten past the color they were originally made. If the surrounding teeth are whitened, the restorations will stand out and look artificial. Replacing old or discolored restorations will allow you to change their appearance.

• Teeth that have internal staining, discoloration from developmental conditions or have been root canalled may not be affected by the typical whitening process.

• Natural tooth colors that are brown or gray in hue may not produce desired results. Typically, teeth with a yellow hue will produce the best results.

• Pregnant or nursing mothers should avoid whitening their teeth as there is not enough research to determine the safety of tooth whitening products during pregnancy or lactation.

• People with hypersensitive teeth should avoid tooth whitening, because this process may enhance the level of sensitivity they experience.

How Are Teeth Whitened?

Enamel, the first layer of tooth surface, is actually semi-translucent, or clear. The layer underneath the enamel, known as dentin, is typically yellow, but may be gray, brown or black. This hue is what is seen penetrating through the enamel. In order to whiten the dentin, a peroxide solution is placed on the enamel. This process opens the pores of the enamel, allowing the solution to reach the layer of dentin. The solution will then begin to lighten the dentin, resulting in the appearance of whiter teeth.

Several brands of tooth-whitening products are on the market that all promise one thing -noticeable results. Professional in-office whitening, professional take-home whitening kits and whitening products remain the most common ways to whiten your teeth.
Side effects associated with teeth whitening:

• Tooth Sensitivity - Sensitive teeth may be noticed during the process of whitening and for a short period after the procedure. This is due to the exposure of the dentin layer during the whitening process.

• Soft Tissue Irritation - Also known as a chemical burn, soft tissue irritation may occur if the whitening solution is exposed to the gum tissue during the whitening process. A prolonged exposure to teeth whitening gels or solution on the gum tissue may result in the inflammation and redness of the areas affected by the whitening solution. And in extreme cases of soft tissue irritation from whitening solution, bleeding and pain in the gum tissue may occur.

As with every procedure, there are some risks associated with tooth whitening but they are temporary. These side-effects however disappear after a few days. Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to learn enough about it to do it properly. It is important to have realistic expectations when evaluating your final results; it may take several treatments to achieve a whiter smile. Whitening results may not be permanent, as your teeth will naturally pick up stain from foods or beverages. Remember to brush and floss daily, and visit your dentist for regular cleanings and examinations. Tooth whitening results will vary from person to person, so chose an option that will suit your specific need and budget.