Tooth Whitening

What Is It?

Tooth whitening is a procedure that lightens teeth and helps to remove stains and discoloration. Whitening is among the most popular cosmetic dental procedures because it can significantly improve the appearance of your teeth at much less cost and inconvenience than other techniques Whitening is not a one-time solution. It will need to be repeated periodically if you want to maintain the brighter color. The most common reasons for yellowing or stained teeth are aging, tobacco, tea and coffee, which can stain the surface of the teeth. It is also possible to have stains that are inside the tooth. These are called intrinsic stains, caused by exposure to too much fluoride as a child while teeth are developing. Other causes include tetracycline antibiotics taken during the second half of pregnancy or given to children 8 years old or younger when the teeth are still developing. Tooth whitening is most effective on surface stains caused by age, foods or drinks. Whitening can be done in the dental office or at home. For whitening at home, your dentist will direct you to use custom trays that are made in the dental office and fit your teeth precisely. Home whitening usually takes two weeks. Over-the-counter kits also are widely available for home use. You should talk to your dentist about using these products, and use them according to directions to avoid overuse and possible damage to your teeth and mouth. The most common type of vital tooth whitening involves placing a gel-like whitening solution, which usually contains hydrogen peroxides, in a tray that resembles a night guard or mouth guard. The tray is then placed over the teeth for a certain period of time — anywhere from an hour or two. Some dentists have started to use lasers as a high-speed alternative to conventional whitening procedures. Consumers like the high-tech aspects of laser treatments, but the technology is still too new — and too expensive — to justify its general use. The American Dental Association states that while the technique may be safe, it has not seen published data on the safety or effectiveness of using lasers for tooth whitening. If you are whitening your teeth at home, your dentist will want to check to make sure the process is working properly, usually after a week.  

Why Should I Whiten My Teeth?

Maybe you've always wanted a beautiful white smile. Or your teeth have yellowed over time. Or you're not happy with the staining that results from drinking coffee, tea or cola. Whatever your reason for wanting whiter teeth, you're not alone. There are many reasons for whitening your teeth, including:

- The boost to your confidence and self-esteem that comes from a great smile
- A younger appearance
- A special event such as a wedding, job interview or class reunion
- To make a positive first impression on others                           
- To simply reverse years of everyday staining and yellowing

How Safe is Tooth Whitening?

Over a decade of research has proven whitening methods to be both safe and effective. Several products in the market today have shown no adverse effects on teeth or gums in substantial clinical and laboratory testing. Be sure to look for clinically proven products, follow directions and consult with your dental professional.