Achieving whiter teeth is a common goal, with a number of methods available. However, it is important to understand what causes discoloration and how different whitening treatments work.
Whitening removes stains from the white outer layer of your tooth (enamel). It also bleaches a yellowish color pigment found underneath the enamel, called dentin.
Teeth Staining
Various stains and discolorations can occur on the teeth. Some are natural and can be prevented with regular brushing and flossing, while others are caused by certain foods and beverages. Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves the removal of these stains to brighten the smile. It has become popular in recent years and can be performed by a dentist or at home. It is recommended that you consult with a dental professional before undergoing any teeth whitening Raleigh NC treatments.
Teeth stains are made of color pigments called chromogens that are either embedded within or on the surface of your teeth. Chromogens can be either organic or metallic, which means they are large molecules with conjugated double bonds in their chemical structure. The whitening procedure bleaches the chromogens by oxidizing the double bond to make them lighter colored. The treatment can be performed in the dental office or at home using a whitening gel with hydrogen peroxide.
There are several methods to bleach your teeth, but the concentration of the hydrogen peroxide is what determines the strength and speed of the treatment. The higher the concentration of hydrogen peroxide, the more dramatic and quicker the results. However, high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide can cause tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. In addition, some people are sensitive to LED-activated whitening treatments.
Teeth Bleaching
In general, whitening procedures use peroxide-based bleaching agents to break down stains and discoloration on the outermost layer of the tooth, or enamel. These substances may be food, drinks, tobacco, and other substances that stain the teeth; or they could be a result of certain health conditions, such as gingivitis, aging, or certain medications. Bleaching products are generally safe when used as directed. However, the whitening process can cause tooth sensitivity and gingival irritation at the time of treatment and during the first few days following treatment. The intensity of these side effects is related to the concentration and duration of the whitening product.
The safety of whitening is supported by a body of research. Laboratory studies have shown that aggressive bleaching can lead to surface demineralization, and a reduced crystallinity of the enamel; but these findings are not necessarily applicable in living teeth. Furthermore, whitening does not affect the color of the inner dentin or the structure of the roots, and does not change the appearance of ceramic crowns or fillings.
Although teeth whitening products have been around for decades, people should always follow the instructions carefully to avoid overdoing it. Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are common side effects, but these can usually be avoided by using a low concentration of whitening gel for shorter periods of time. A touch-up treatment twice a year should be enough to keep teeth looking their best.
Teeth Whitening Options
As people demand whiter teeth, many bleaching products are available. These products rely on varying concentrations of peroxide, abrasives to break down surface stains, and/or whitening agents to lighten the color of natural tooth enamel.
Most products are designed for specific stain types and vary widely in their effectiveness. Typically, more severe stains benefit from professional bleaching while milder stains may be addressed with an over-the-counter whitening product.
Regardless of what whitening system is chosen, it’s important to follow the directions. Many whitening products require that they be left on the teeth for 30-60 minutes or even longer to reach their optimum shade. It’s also crucial to avoid drinking or eating anything that could stain your teeth for a few hours following the bleaching treatment.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends consulting your dentist before you begin any teeth whitening Raleigh NC process. Your dentist will be able to provide you with customized trays that fit your mouth, which will offer more dramatic results than over-the-counter whitening gels. Additionally, a dental professional can check the health of your gums and treat any dental problems that would be exacerbated by the whitening process.
Bleaching is not recommended for children under the age of 16 because their pulp chambers remain enlarged, and the whitening solution could irritate or harm them. Also, pregnant women should not undergo whitening because it can lead to complications.
Teeth Whitening Cost
The best way to reduce teeth whitening costs is by shopping around and taking advantage of promotional offers. Some dental offices offer discounted in-office treatments for new patients or bundle deals on take-home kits. You can also look for discounts on whitening treatments through a dental savings program, but be sure to calculate the potential savings against the cost of membership before making a purchase.
Professional whitening treatments provide the best chance of significantly lightening your natural tooth color, but they tend to be more expensive than over-the-counter whitening products. In-office whitening involves the careful application of a high-concentration peroxide gel to your teeth, typically after your gums are protected with a protective sealant. The whitening process can be completed in a single session, or you may need several sessions to achieve your desired results.
Over-the-counter whitening products include toothpaste, rinses, whitening strips and trays that contain peroxide-based bleaching gels. Most whitening toothpastes and rinses will lighten your teeth by 1 to 2 shades. Whitening strips and trays that are purchased from your dentist contain higher concentrations of peroxide and can produce more dramatic and longer-lasting results. The cost of professional whitening can vary between $100 and $400, depending on the type of treatment. Most dental insurance providers don’t cover whitening, although some do allow you to claim cosmetic procedures after a waiting period.
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