Tooth whitening lightens teeth and helps to remove stains and discoloration.This is mostly common in all the cosmetic procedures performed by the dentist as it improve the teeth look. This is not a permanent procedure you need to visit dentist time to time if you want to maintain that white tooth color.
Uses
Teeth is composed of different types of layers mainly enamel, dentine and pulp. Enamel is the outermost and hardest part in our body. Thickness and composition of enamel is different in different individuals mainly depends upon genetics. The color of natural teeth is created by the reflection and scattering of light though the enamel, combined with the color of the dentin below it. If the enamel surface is thin then reflection of the dentine is more. Smoot and rough enamel surface also effects the color of reflection.
In our daily routine very thin layer is deposited everyday that stick to the enamel and make the tooth surface dark in color. Here are some reasons for the yellow or satined teeth
- Chewing tobacco is the common reason of brown or black stains in the tooth surface.
- Poor oral hygiene not taking good care of teeth
- Consuming dark colored liquid for example cola,coffee and red wine
There are two types of stains that effects teeth. Extrinsic stains are those stains which are on the external surface of the tooth. Intrinsic stains effects inner layers of the teeth,intrinsic stains can be caused by exposure to too much fluoride as a child while teeth are developing and also by the pregnant women when taking tetracyclines. Tooth whitening is most effective on surface satins.
Preparation for whitening
All the other tooth problems should be treated before starting whitening procedure. Cavities need to be treated before teeth are whitened. That's because the whitening solution can pass through decayed areas and reach the inner parts of the tooth. If you have tooth decay or receding gums, whitening may make your teeth sensitive. Whitening also does not work on ceramic crowns or veneers.
Procedure
Whitening procedure can be done by two ways at dental office and at home.
- At dental office first dentist take photograph to monitor progress of the treatment. Dentist then takes history about the causes of stains. Then dentist or hygienist cleans teeth remove the film of bacteria, food and other substances that contribute to the satin formation. After all this over ,the whitening procedure starts.
- For home whitening custom trays are made by the dentist according to the oral anatomy which fits precisely in the mouth. Whitening gel is applied on the trays and inserted in the mouth daily for two to three weeks.
Vital staining
The most common type of vital tooth whitening uses a gel that is applied directly to the tooth surface. This product contains some form of hydrogen peroxide. This staining can be used both at office and home.
Non-vital staining
Whitening agent is placed inside the tooth and temporary filling is done over it.Tooth then left for several days and removed when desired shade is achieved.
Risks
Whitening can cause serious side effects such as teeth become sensitive. Patient complains of gum irritation and some are allergic to gel used for whitening.
In my opinion natural tooth color is best for every individual we don't need to change or alter the that nature gives us.
