Teeth enamel discoloration can be caused by staining, aging, or chemical
damage to teeth. Some of the more common causes of teeth discoloration
are medications, coffee, tea or cigarettes. People who drink significant
amounts of cola soft drinks can experience similar staining.
Aside from staining, there are other factors that can affect the color
of an individual's teeth. Genetics can play a role. Some people have
naturally brighter enamel than others. Disease can also be a factor
and certain medications can cause a discoloration of the teeth. If
you suspect that there is an underlying medical cause for your teeth
discoloration, be sure to inform your cosmetic dentist.
Teeth
Whitening : Overview
Tooth
whitening is used to correct discoloration of the teeth
by removing the brown and yellow staining. The term "teeth
whitening" can refer to a number of techniques to
improve the brightness of the
patient's teeth. Among them are chemical whitening, mild
acid whitening, abrasive teeth brightening and
the newest technique, laser teeth whitening.
Teeth Bleaching :
Tooth bleaching is chemical process used to lighten the
color of the patient's teeth. The procedure can
be performed entirely in the cosmetic dentist's office
or it can be performed by the patient in their
home, using a materials provided by the dentist. The home
method is often used because it saves
the patient from having to make an office visit for each
treatment.
Before
the patient embarks on the home teeth whitening regimen,
the cosmetic dentist creates a custom mouth tray for the
patient. It ensures that the correct amount of whitening
solution is used and that the patient's teeth are properly
exposed to the whitening solution. The custom made mouth
tray provides for a better fit than a one-size-fits-all
mouth tray to help increase the margin of patient safety.
The steps in the home teeth whitening regimen are fairly
straightforward. The cosmetic dentist's office provides
the patient with the materials and instructions and also
answers questions the patient may have about the routine.
Your dentist's office can also provide you with off-site
supervision should you have any questions once you've
begun.
A home whitening session can last for two to three hours,
during which time you will have the tray and solution
in your mouth. Depending upon your needs and desired results,
your dentist may instruct you to keep the tray in your
mouth overnight. Typically, you will follow your home
teeth whitening regimen for two to three weeks, after
which time you will return to your cosmetic dentist for
a follow up visit.
How
long does teeth whitening last?
Tooth whitening is not a permanent
procedure. Results can last for one to or more years,
depending upon your personal habits.
In most cases, the whitening procedure is very effective
and the patient is pleased with the results.