If this is your first time learning about teeth whitening treatments, you’re in for a treat. Your cosmetic dentist is whiting patients’ teeth more and more every day. Considered to be one of the most popular treatments for cosmetic and restorative dentists alike, teeth whitening is causing a lot of people to ask questions.
To make this process easier, we’ve chosen some frequently asked questions so new patients know what to expect with their teeth whitening treatment. Your brand-new smile is only a few shades away, so let’s get started.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
The process begins with a few teeth whitening agents designed to penetrate your enamel. These include carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide. During the treatment, the whitening agents will reach the discolored molecules inside your tooth. As oxygen from the whitening agents react to the molecules, it breaks the bonds holding them together. The oxygen then spreads throughout your teeth, leaving it whiter and brighter than before.
Will the Whitening Solution Damage My Teeth?
According to the American Dental Association, one of the most commonly observed side effects of peroxide-based bleaching agents is tooth sensitivity. This occurs early in the treatment and is usually temporary, succeeding after the end of treatment. Alert your dentist to any previous oral-related issues you have during consultation to ensure they classify you as a proper candidate for teeth whitening.
What Will The Bleach Do To My Gums, Fillings, and Crowns?
Another common side effect experienced during teeth whitening is an occasional irritation of soft tissues in the mouth, including the gums. Patients with gum disease should avoid teeth whitening as the cleaning agents may enter the inner areas of the tooth.
Patients with previous fillings or crowns should also reconsider teeth whitening as these components are not designed to whiten. If you intend to get fillings or crowns in the future, consider whitening your teeth first and allow up to two weeks for the enamel to remineralize before getting fillings or crowns. Your dentist may suggest an alternative method for whiter teeth during your consultation as well.
How Long Can I Expect The Results To Last?
According to the Oral Health Foundation, teeth whitening is believed to last for up to three years. However, this also depends on the patient’s food and smoking habits as these can cause the tooth to lose their whiteness more quickly. Ask your dentist how long their treatments last for and how often patients come in to have their teeth redone.
Is Bleaching Safe For All Ages?
Teeth whitening is not recommended for infants as their teeth have not yet fully developed. Typically, all permanent teeth will have erupted between the ages of 12 and 13. Since developing teeth are more exposed, the peroxide from the cleaning agents could touch the pulp of the tooth, leading to severe sensitivity. This creates an inherent risk for your child that should be discussed with your dentist first. Ideally, you’ll want to wait until all teeth have developed fully before applying teeth whitening agents of any kind.
Keep these questions in mind when having your consultation. Don’t hesitate to find out if dentist whiting your teeth is right for you!
About the Author
Dr. Daniel Jordan Berquist, D.D.S. earned his degree in biology from the Olivet Nazarene University and his dental degree at the Indiana University School of Dentistry. He is also a member of several dental associations, including the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the American Dental Association. To learn more about his practice, visit his website or contact him at (219) 226-0544.
