cosmetic family dentistry the woodlands texas Dr. Bill Lockhart DDS

Want whiter teeth? A dental visit is the first step

Whitening your teeth is one of the easiest things that can be done to
brighten up your smile and improve your appearance. Studies have
shown that increasing numbers of people are keeping their natural
teeth, thanks to improved hygiene and increased preventive care.
But as teeth age, they naturally darken a bit. And years of exposure
to coffee, tea, red wine, colas and smoking can stain teeth and
make them appear dull.

There are several options available if you're interested in whitening
your teeth. Currently, one of the most popular procedures is an
at-home bleaching technique. This procedure requires a dental visit,
where you'll be fitted for a customized bleaching tray. You'll also
receive the whitening gel that's best for you. Usually, you'll apply the
gel to your customized tray, and wear it for two to three hours a day
for a week or two; tobacco stains may take longer to bleach out.

If it's faster results you're after, in-office power bleaching is also
available. In this procedure, a bleaching solution that's activated by
heat and light is applied in the dental office. Oxygen in the solution
penetrates the hard outer enamel of the tooth and removes the
underlying stains or discoloration. Since enamel is transparent, the
natural, newly-whitened inner tooth will show through.

Power bleaching offers effective and quick results; typically, teeth are
whitened significantly in just one visit. For stubborn stains, it may be
necessary to repeat the process, or to combine power bleaching with
at-home whitening sessions. Results usually last for years, and can
be maximized with regular dental cleanings and periodic professional
touch-ups.

Over-the-counter bleaching kits

You'll likely see a number of do-it-yourself bleaching kits on the
shelves at the drug store. Professional dental organizations warn
against using these kits, because the "one-size-fits-all" bleaching
trays usually mean that the sensitive gum tissue is exposed to a
large amount of the bleaching gel, which can result in irritation.
In-home bleaching kits can also damage the tooth's enamel and
inner pulp chamber.

"The price may be right, but the results aren't; over-the-counter
whitening kits aren't safe," according to experts at the Mayo Clinic in
Rochester, Minn.

Whitening toothpastes also aren't generally safe, as they use
chemicals and abrasive substances to remove stains on teeth. When
combined with overly-zealous brushing, some bleaching toothpastes
can literally rub the enamel right off your teeth!

Whitening isn't for everybody. If it's determined that you're a good
candidate for whitening, the best option for your situation will be
prescribed, and the progress will be closely monitored to determine if
any adverse reactions do occur.

Will Tooth Whitening Work For You?

Even with today's advanced whitening techniques, everyone's teeth
will not whiten with the same results. Yellow-, brown- or orange-toned
stains will generally bleach out quite well, whereas grayed teeth, or
teeth stained by tetracycline use, may not bleach satisfactorily. Your
situation will be carefully evaluated, and you will be advised
accordingly. If tooth bleaching isn't for you, don't give up on having
whiter, brighter teeth! Porcelain veneers or dental bonding could be
the perfect solution for you.

Source - The American Dental Association
The Mayo Clinic