Teeth Whitening
Opalescence Go
By: Mark E. Harris DDS
Today there’s an increasing demand for dental care that goes beyond the usual cleanings and fillings. The trend today is toward cosmetic dentistry. This type of dentistry is done simply to make your teeth and smile look better and function more effectively.
Probably the most frequently performed cosmetic procedure is teeth whitening. This is a simple procedure that begins in the dentist’s chair and is continued at home by the patient.
What Makes Teeth Yellow or Stained?
The most common causes of yellow or dull looking teeth are; normal aging, consumption of coffee, tea, colas, tobacco, the use of antibiotics such as tetracycline, excessive fluoride and nerve degeneration. Oddly enough – and for reasons no one is quite sure of – trauma can also cause the teeth to lose their whiteness.
Safe, Effective, and Inexpensive
Teeth whitening has been around for many years. However earlier versions often included overly strong chemicals that were difficult for a patient to handle. In addition the treatment was often quite costly to administer.Today, all that has changed. Teeth are now whitened with the use of a mild, but powerful bleaching gel made from carbamide peroxide. The gel is placed in a “bleaching tray” molded to your own teeth. It’s important that the appliance be custom fit for each patient by their dentist so that the whitening gel sits directly on the teeth and not on the gums. The appliance is worn at night, while you sleep or during the day for a few hours. This process is repeated anywhere from three to fourteen days. Results can usually be seen after the very first application. At your initial consultation and follow-up appointments digital pictures will be taken and printed for you so you can see your progression.
Is Teeth Whitening Effective for Everyone?
The whitening process may not be effective for every patient. Patients with periodontal (gum) problems will not benefit from the procedure until the gum disease is under control. In other instances patients may experience gum irritation or tooth sensitivity. However, these symptoms disappear within one to three days after interruption or completion of the treatment.An estimated 95% of all patients can receive teeth whitening with good to spectacular results. Your dentist can determine how the procedure can work for you. Teeth whitening today is a fast and inexpensive way to make your teeth white and bright.
