Teeth Whitening — Durango Dentistry (2024)

Teeth Whitening

Durango, CO

A quick overview of teeth whitening trays

Teeth whitening trays are a popular choice if you want a brilliant smile. You can use these trays in the comfort of your home. The trays are also intuitive to use. Before you get started with your teeth whitening trays, discover some key information you should know.

Before delving into what patients should know about teeth whitening trays, what are they? Teeth whitening trays are a kit that includes a tooth tray and a bleaching agent. The bleaching agent is usually a gel. Patients place the bleaching agent in the tray. Then, the patient carefully places the tray over their teeth.

After a set amount of time, the patient removes the tray and rinses out the mouth. Patients repeat this process to get a bright, white smile.

The choices for teeth whitening trays

Patients should also be aware of the choices regarding teeth whitening trays. Some dentists sell professional-grade kits in their offices. Alternatively, most pharmacies and superstores sell numerous kits. Store-bought kits typically have lower concentrations of bleaching agents. The teeth whitening trays distributed by dentists may offer custom-fit trays. These custom trays produce better results but are more expensive.

Teeth whitening trays can also vary by active ingredients, concentrations, brands, costs and length of time worn.

Pros and cons of teeth whitening trays

Anyone who uses a teeth whitening tray should also learn the pros and cons of this method. It offers convenience via the ability to use the tray at home. Completing the treatment at home also saves time. There is no need to drive to the dentist. Furthermore, you can multitask while wearing the tray. Teeth whitening trays are also more affordable than in-office treatments.

In terms of disadvantages, teeth whitening trays take longer to produce results than professional whitening. There is also a risk of tooth sensitivity. To minimize that risk, patients should limit the time wearing the tray at first. Leaving the tray in too long can cause sensitivity. In extreme cases, high concentrations left in too long can cause oral damage. This is rare, however.

Q&A: Teeth Whitening

Q. Does tooth whitening cause permanent tooth sensitivity?

A. Sensitivity from tooth whitening is always transient. If there is any sensitivity caused by the whitening, it goes away within one to two days after the treatment, and the patient returns to the state of sensitivity he or she had prior to starting the whitening process.

Q. Can I get my teeth whitened?

A. Most people are candidates for tooth whitening, but again, each situation is unique and it's best to contact your dental professional.

Q. How long does tooth whitening last?

A. Typically you can expect whitening to last from six months to two years, although some studies report results lasting up to 10 years. Avoiding red wine, coffee, and smoking—all of which can cause staining—helps preserve the results.

Q. Is tooth bleaching safe?

A. Yes, many studies have proven that tooth whitening is safe. You can protect your tooth enamel by using calcium sulfate and fluoride.

Q. How much does tooth whitening cost?

A. Prices vary widely for tooth whitening. Over-the-counter kits can cost as little as $20, with extensive in-office procedures approaching up to $1,000. If you want professional whitening, expect the price to be around $300 to $800. If you want an at-home bleaching kit from your dentist, expect to pay between $300 and $600. Learn more about dental insurance and financing.

Q. Does tooth whitening affect fillings, veneers, or crowns?

A. Tooth whitening has little or no effect on restorative materials such as porcelain or crowns, but it may temporarily reduce the bond strength between enamel and composite restorations. This is why it is a good idea to check with your dental professional before beginning any course of tooth whitening.

Q. Is the agent used in tooth whitening toxic?

A. Products developed from carbamide peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and urea (substances found in every human cell), should be used cautiously to alleviate concern. Those who have issues are the ones who don't follow instructions and overuse the products for months or years.

How the results compare to in-office teeth whitening

Before buying teeth whitening trays, patients should understand how they compare to an in-office whitening appointment. At-home trays require multiple treatments repeated over time. Most in-office whitening treatments produce results in a single visit. The quicker results from in-office whitening are because:

• The dentist uses more concentrated bleaching agents

• The dentist cleans the teeth more thoroughly first

• The dentist’s professional experience allows for quicker results

Even so, patients with patience can get similar results from teeth whitening trays. It will just take multiple sessions to achieve the results.

In-office whitening vs. take-home kits

As mentioned, there are two types of professional teeth whitening, which are in-office whitening and take-home whitening kits. Both are effective when performed correctly, although each has its own pros and cons. The benefits of in-office teeth whitening include faster results, results that last longer and a safer treatment process as the dentist can monitor the treatment. Take-home kits are more convenient for some, although the results are not quite as effective or long-lasting.

How to determine if whitening is right for you

Teeth whitening is ideal for patients who have good oral health that want to improve the brightness and overall appearance of their smile. Patients who have weakened enamel or dental cavities may require treatment to fix the oral health concern before they are able to receive professional, in-office teeth whitening. The best way to determine if teeth whitening is appropriate is to discuss the treatment option with a general dentist. They can answer your questions and put together a treatment plan that involves professional teeth whitening or any other cosmetic services you desire.

Can Teeth Whitening Be Harmful?

There are not many risks for teeth whitening when performed professionally by a dentist. However, understanding the process and whether or not teeth whitening could be harmful is helpful in deciding if treatment is appropriate for you.

The risks of teeth whitening

Increased tooth sensitivity, gum irritation and swelling are the most notable risks of teeth whitening, although these risks are rare and typically not severe when they do exist. This review offers a more in-depth look at each risk and how professional, in-office teeth whitening can prevent side effects from developing.

• Increased tooth sensitivity

  Many patients experience little to no tooth sensitivity after teeth whitening. If sensitivity does develop, it is typically minor and goes away within 48 hours. Minor sensitivity is not a cause for concern, although severe sensitivity or if it continues for an extended period of time may require a follow-up visit with the dentist. To deal with minor to moderate sensitivity, the dentist may recommend a special toothpaste or other forms of safe symptom relief treatment.

• Gum irritation and swelling

  Gum irritation and swelling are rare with professional teeth whitening, especially if it is performed in-chair by the dentist or dental hygienist. However, take-home kits could lead to gum irritation and swelling if it is not performed correctly. Mild gum irritation and swelling is not a serious concern, but it is likely a sign the gums are being exposed to the bleaching agent. If any gum complications develop during or after in-office teeth whitening, then let your dentist know to ensure any issues are resolved as soon as possible.

How to Prevent Dull-Colored Teeth

Are you wondering why your teeth appear so dull? This is the question heard by dentists everywhere. Dental patients are always looking for ways to brighten their smile, but treating a problem is much more costly, and more difficult, than preventing the problem in the first place. Keeping your teeth bright and healthy for a lifetime starts with daily, diligent preventative measures.

What causes dull teeth?

Dull teeth are defined as teeth that are discolored to the point of losing their natural sheen. The enamel, the outermost layer of teeth, is naturally white. However, this layer can be easily stained or compromised by both external and internal factors.

• Poor dental hygiene

  Brushing twice and flossing once daily is not only good for maintaining lifelong oral health. Preserving the naturally-white color and bright shine of your teeth depends on a diligent routine of excellent oral health care.

  You may notice that even skipping one session of brushing your teeth leaves your mouth feeling grimy — this is because brushing removes a good amount of bacteria from the mouth. When this bacteria is left to advance, it can form a thin film on teeth called plaque. This plaque then eats through the enamel. Over time, thinning enamel reveals the layer of yellow dentin tissue underneath it.

• Diet

  Certain food and drink such as coffee, soda, dark berries and red wine can leave stains on the teeth. Although most surface stains can be removed by whitening, preventing these stains is the best way to ensure teeth stay bright.

  If coffee and soda are unavoidable, drink them through a straw and try not to sip on these beverages for long periods of time throughout the day. A diet rich in calcium and phosphorus is essential in fortifying tooth and jaw structure. Keep your teeth healthy and bright by eating foods like leafy vegetables and fruit.

• Tobacco use

  Tobacco is not only harmful to your general overall health but smoking cigarettes and the use of other tobacco products can permanently stain teeth. Unsightly dark stains can appear on the surface of and between teeth. Tobacco use is also known to cause tooth sensitivity and periodontal disease.

• Trauma

  Some experience damage due to physical trauma to a tooth or several teeth. Sports injuries and falls can leave you with broken or even missing teeth. This type of damage can disturb the nerve and cause the tooth to slowly die. A tooth that is dying can become discolored, and usually turns a grayish color.

• Medications

  Antibiotics like tetracycline and doxycycline can discolor teeth, especially in children under the age of eight. Even antihistamines (like Benadryl) or high blood pressure medications can cause temporary tooth discoloration.

• Genetics

  As unfair as it may seem, some are genetically predisposed to have naturally brighter enamel than others. Hereditarily thick enamel will cause the smile to appear whiter, as there is a heartier layer where the dentin is not allowed to show through. Those with thin enamel may have yellowed teeth.

• Advancing age

  As we get older, enamel thins and the dentin underneath begins to show. This is a natural process that happens to everyone. However, enamel health can be prolonged and you can have a whiter smile for longer by brushing every day with a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride remineralizes the enamel and keeps your teeth bright for longer.

Definition of Cosmetic Dentistry Terminology

Bleachorexia

Bleachorexia is when people continue to abuse teeth whitening solutions without consulting professionals, causing significant damage to their enamel and gums in the process.

Carbamide Peroxide

Carbamide peroxide is a solution that contains hydrogen peroxide and can help to whiten teeth.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is generally used to refer to any dental work that improves the appearance (though not necessarily the function) of a person’s teeth, gums and/or bite.

Deeper Teeth Stains

Deeper teeth stains are stains that require professional oral health services and can result from certain foods, beverages or improper oral hygiene.

Dentin Hypersensitivity

Dentin hypersensitivity is when the enamel wears down on the tooth enough that the dentin faces exposure and will cause great levels of pain when a person applies pressure to the tooth or drinks hot/cold beverages.

Dentist

A dentist, also known as a dental surgeon, is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound in teeth whitening solutions that patients use to whiten the shade of their teeth.

Relief ACP

Relief ACP stands for amorphous calcium phosphate, which helps to relieve the pain in sensitive teeth in a gel form.

Stained Dentin

Stained dentin can result from certain foods and beverages with a lack of proper brushing. Dental professionals can provide whitening treatments to brighten the teeth.

Surface Enamel

The surface enamel is the hard outer shell that protects the dentin and pulp of the teeth. The enamel is the surface that people see when one smiles.

Surface Teeth Stains

While surface teeth stains can be inevitable with age, certain foods and beverages will only promote discoloration and faded teeth.

Teeth Whitening Concentrate

Teeth whitening concentrate is the bleaching agent that whitens the shade of teeth, which is more effective from a professional and not a general store product.

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