Teeth bleaching, or teeth whitening treatment, is a popular, non-invasive, and effective cosmetic dentistry treatment. Though the treatment is also very safe, it is recommended only for adults over eighteen.
Teeth Whitening – How It Works
If your teeth are stained yellow or brownish due to exposure to coffee, tea, nicotine, or other substances, you might feel self-conscious about your smile. In most cases, teeth whitening can restore your teeth to their normal color in a single treatment that lasts about an hour. Your cosmetic dentist will place the whitening agent on the tooth surfaces and leave it for a period of time, then remove it and repeat the process. Some types of whiteners are activated with a special light for maximum effectiveness.
You’ll be able to see the results of your whitening procedure right away, although your teeth will probably lighten a few more shades over the next week or two. The whitening procedure generally uses a strong hydrogen peroxide solution. These solutions have only been approved for use in adults over eighteen. If there are special circumstances, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of whitening treatment for younger patients.
What Conditions Respond To Teeth Whitening?
In cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening can provide dramatic results and transform the look of a smile almost immediately. Whitening is most effective when it’s used to treat surface staining. This type of discoloration on the teeth is usually caused by exposure to environmental staining agents, including:
- Tea
- Coffee
- Fruit juices
- Nicotine
This type of staining tends to respond well to in-office treatment. However, if the initial treatment does not provide the desired results, your dentist might recommend a professional-strength, at-home whitening kit, used over a period of about two weeks. For particularly stubborn stains, or for stains that are embedded in the tooth’s internal structures, treatment with veneers might be more appropriate. If a tooth is stained black, this could indicate an injury to the tooth’s interior. Consult our dentist by calling (214) 821-8639 for a diagnosis and recommended treatment in this case.