THIS IS a popular subject in cosmetic dentistry. Does Hollywood smile ring a bell? With the likes of Tyra Banks, Alyssa Millano, Julia Roberts, Cameron Diaz, Tom Cruise, Jude Law, Shania Twain, etc. The common factor among these actors and actresses is their pearly white teeth.
There are two popular processes in obtaining this dental procedure: The chair-side whitening system (in-clinic treatment) and the at-home whitening system (at-home bleaching), which uses a thermoforming tray and a whitening gel.
You may want to start by speaking with your dentist. He or she can tell you whether whitening procedures would be effective for you. The degree of whiteness will vary from patient to patient, depending on the structure of the teeth. Whiteners may not correct all types of discoloration.
For example, yellowish-hued teeth will probably bleach well, while brownish-colored teeth may not bleach well at all. Likewise, bleaching may not enhance your smile, if you have had bonding or tooth-colored fillings placed in your front teeth. The whitener will not affect the color of these materials and they will stand out in your newly-whitened smile. In these cases, you may want to investigate other options, like porcelain veneers or dental bonding.
If you are a candidate for bleaching, your dentist may suggest a procedure that can be done in his or her office. This procedure is called chair-side bleaching. It is safe, effective, and fast. In less than one hour, your teeth will become dramatically whiter.
Chairside Whitening is ideal for anyone looking for immediate results. During chairside whitening, the dentist will apply either a protective gel to your gums or a rubber shield to protect the soft oral tissues. A bleaching agent is then applied to the teeth and a special light may be used to enhance the action of the agent. Laser have been used during tooth whitening procedures to enhance the action of the whitening agent.
At home bleaching solutions contain peroxides, which actually whiten the tooth enamel. These products usually rely on percent carbamide peroxide as the bleaching agent placed in a mouthguard or molded upper and lower tray. Usage regimens vary depending on the type of products. If you obatin the bleaching solution from your dentist, he or she can make a custom-fitted mouthguard for you that will fit your teeth precisely. You may also want to speak with your dentist should any side effects become bothersome.
For example, teeth can become sensitive during the period when you are using the bleaching solution. In many cases, this sensitivity is temporary and should lessen once the treatment is finished. Some people also experience soft tissue irritation either from a tray that doesn’t fit properly or from solution that may come in contact with the tisses. If you have concerns about such side effects, you should discuss them with your dentist.