Tooth
Whitening
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Opalescent
whitening and all porcelain crowns
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Opalesence Whitening
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larger view of this case.
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Regardless of how well you care for your
teeth, it is inevitable that, over time, some yellowing or discoloration
will occur. This gradual change can be caused by aging, substances
that stain your teeth (such as coffee and tobacco), excessive fluoride,
or the deterioration of a tooth's nerve. A tooth whitening treatment
can be performed either as an at-home, dentist-supervised process
or in the dentist's chair. While neither of these methods stops future
discoloration, these treatments bring about whiter teeth and help
create a more vibrant smile.
At-home Whitening
The most popular method of whitening teeth is the at-home, dentist-supervised
option. During your visit to the dentist, he or she takes a mold
of your teeth and creates a comfortable, customized mouthtray. The
mouthtray holds a mild solution whose main ingredient is carbamide
peroxide, a substance that reacts with water to release a non-toxic
bleaching element (hydrogen peroxide). The mouthtray is placed inside
the mouth, and sits only against the teeth, thereby avoiding contact
with the gums. Patients can choose either to wear the mouthtray
throughout the night or for stretches that last from two to four
hours.
Patient Concerns
When using the at-home treatment, patient's teeth may feel a heightened,
but temporary, sensitivity. The gums may also feel more sensitive
or burn slightly. Not all people experience the quality of whiteness
they had hoped for on their first treatment and they may require
a "touch-up" treatment. Whitening treatments begin to
fade in one to four years. It should be noted that tooth whitening
treatments have no effect on the artificial materials used for bonds,
veneers, or capped teeth.
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