Teeth Bleaching / Whitening
Need a bright, white smile for a special occasion?
Perhaps your wedding is coming up and you want your smile to be its brightest. Or maybe you have an important speaking engagement. Whatever the reason, tooth bleaching isn't just for movie stars, and it isn't just for one day. Many people have had their teeth bleached, and probably millions more are thinking about it. The desire for a brighter smile with whiter teeth is very strong, and tooth bleaching safely lightens the color of the teeth, lasting for many years. The most effective and safest method of tooth bleaching is dentist-supervised. Dr. Goldy, well known cosmetic dentist in Beverly Hills, has been bleaching hundreds of patients' teeth for more than 15 years!
Is bleaching for you?
Generally, tooth bleaching is successful in over 90 percent of patients, though it may not be an option for everyone. Consider tooth bleaching if your teeth are darkened from age, coffee, tea or smoking. Teeth darkened with the color of yellow, brown or orange respond better to lightening. Other types of gray stains caused by fluorosis, smoking or tetracycline are lightened, but results are not as dramatic. If you have very sensitive teeth, periodontal disease, or teeth with worn enamel, Dr. Goldy may discourage bleaching.
What's involved?
First, Dr. Goldy will determine whether you are a candidate for tooth bleaching and what type of bleaching system would provide the best results. If you're in a hurry for whiter teeth, you may decide to have your teeth lightened immediately in one visit using a "power bleaching" technique.
We currently use the ZOOM! method as seen on "Extreme Makeover" and "The Swan". This method takes from 60 to 90 minutes in our office; we also provide bleaching trays to use for touch up. Click ZOOM! logo or here to learn more...
The time-tested, effective and economical method of tooth bleaching is referred to as "home bleaching." Our dental assistant will make impressions of your teeth to fabricate a bleaching tray appliance. The tray is custom made for your mouth and is very thin and lightweight so it can be worn comfortably while you are awake or sleeping. It is so thin that you should even be able to talk and work while whitening your teeth! Along with the tray, you'll receive the bleaching materials (gel) and instructions. One of our staff will explain everything. It is quite simple, but very effective! The best results are obtained when using a stronger bleaching gel (22 percent) for only two to three hours per day. Usually, incredible results are obtained in seven to ten days. A weaker bleaching solution is used for more sensitive teeth, and it can be used all night, while sleeping.
Over the counter tooth bleaching products:
A comment about over the counter bleaching products: There are many! Some are strips. Some are paint-on gels. There are bleaching toothpastes, and there are some OTC systems that claim to provide a bleaching tray like dentists! (These are nothing like the trays we make.) Don't be fooled. Although these products may provide some whitening if used over a LONG time, the concentration of tooth bleaching gel does not compare to the product provided by a dentist (by law). Also, a properly fitting tray is a must for achieving whiter teeth AND to avoid burning your gums!
How long does bleaching last?
Lightness should last from five to ten years, depending on your personal habits, such as smoking and drinking coffee and tea. Also, provided you keep your trays in a safe place and do touch ups periodically.
How does it work?
The active ingredient in most of the teeth whitening agents is 10 percent carbamide peroxide (CH4N2O2), also known as urea peroxide. When water contacts this white crystal, the release of hydrogen peroxide lightens the teeth.
Is it safe? Any side effects?
Several studies during the past five years have proven tooth bleaching to be safe and effective. The American Dental Association has granted its seal of approval to some tooth bleaching products. Some patients may experience slight gum irritation or tooth sensitivity, which will resolve when the treatment ends.
What are realistic expectations?
No one can really predict how much lighter your teeth will become. Every case is different. Typically, there is a two-shade improvement as seen on a dentist's shade guide. The success rate depends upon the type of stain involved and your compliance. Tooth bleaching can only provide a shift in color from gray to a lighter shade of gray, for example. Bleaching does not lighten artificial materials, such as resins or porcelains.
Original source: Library of the Academy of General Dentistry