Teeth whitening treatments are one of the most affordable ways to significantly improve the color of your teeth. It typically involves using bleaching agents, like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide, to remove stains and discoloration from the surface of the teeth.
Unfortunately, the treatment is not right for every patient or every type of stain that can develop on a tooth. Teeth whitening treatments are most effective on discoloration and stains caused by:
Teeth whitening treatments are not an effective way to remove stains caused by being overexposed to fluoride or those caused by using tetracycline antibiotics.
Dentists are often reluctant to perform teeth whitening treatments on patients with a bunch of dental issues. For example, dentists will often address oral problems like tooth decay and gum disease before whitening a patient's teeth. Whitening treatments can lead to increased sensitivity in the teeth, which can exacerbate the pain and discomfort caused by existing dental issues.
Figuring out what type of whitening product is right for you can be quite the challenge given all the variety in the market. The most effective way to whiten teeth is by having the procedure done by a dentist. Dentists have access to prescription-grade whitening products that can improve the whiteness of a patient's teeth by eight shades after a single session. Most people need multiple whitening sessions to reach the desired shade of white.
Dentists often use customized mouth trays to apply whitening products. These mouth trays are made with an impression of the patient's mouth and they ensure the product is evenly dispensed. A whitening tray also helps to prevent the whitener from getting into the gums where it can cause inflammation and irritation.
The average whitening session lasts around 45 minutes to an hour. Some patients experience increased sensitivity in their teeth after their treatment, but that usually goes away after a few days. Patients can combat this sensitivity with over-the-counter tooth desensitizing products.
Dentists also provide patients with whitening kits they can use at home. These kits come with customized whitening trays and whitening products that are not as strong as the ones used in office, but still significantly stronger than OTC alternatives. Whitening teeth with an at-home kit is typically cheaper than getting treated in-office, but it takes longer to get the same results.
A person's teeth will always be exposed to a variety of things that can discolor and stain them. The aging process also leads to discoloration. Enamel becomes thinner with time, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath. Maintenance treatments a few times a year can help maintain the results of whitening treatments.
Call or visit out Stuart clinic to learn more about how we can improve the color of your teeth with our whitening treatments.
Request an appointment here: https://drdelucia.com/ or call Anthony DeLucia D.D.S., P.A. at (772) 492-7045 for an appointment in our Stuart office.
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