Why do the teeth become discoloured? Well, it might fascinate you to know that teeth discolouration is natural. As we age, the outer enamel layer thins out due to wear, revealing the naturally yellower dentin beneath. However, multiple factors can expedite or intensify the process. Here’s a quick rundown of some of these factors.
Tobacco Use
Smoking or chewing tobacco introduces tar and nicotine, creating stubborn stains.
Radiations
Radiation and chemotherapy targeting the head and neck can also darken teeth.
Poor Dental Hygiene
Inadequate brushing, flossing, and rinsing allow plaque and stain-producing substances to remain on the teeth.
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Fluorosis
Excessive fluoride consumption during the early years of life can lead to teeth discolouration.
Trauma or Injury
Trauma can cause teeth to change colour as they may react to an injury by depositing more dentin, a darker layer under the enamel.
What are the benefits of using professional teeth whitening?
Quick and Effective
In-office procedures usually take an hour or less, offering dramatic results in a single session.
Safe and Supervised
Treatments are overseen by dental professionals, ensuring safety. The risk of gum irritation, common with over-the-counter products, is minimised.
Deep Stain Removal
Professional whitening treatments can target and eliminate deep-set stains that over-the-counter products might not touch.
Boosted Confidence
Achieving a brighter smile can enhance self-esteem and make one more confident in social or professional settings.
Long-lasting Results
Professional treatments offer results that last longer than those achieved with over-the-counter solutions, especially with proper aftercare.
Expert Guidance
Beyond the treatment itself, dental professionals advise on maintaining the results and oral health in general.
What are Professional Teeth Whitening Methods?
Here’s a breakdown of the main professional whitening methods
Laser Teeth Whitening
This method employs a laser to activate a whitening agent (usually a gel) applied to the teeth.
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Zoom Whitening
A proprietary method, it uses the Zoom Advanced Power Chairside Lamp to accelerate bleaching.
Bleaching
This is the most common method. A strong bleaching agent (like hydrogen peroxide) is applied to the teeth. A rubber shield or protective gel may be used to protect the gums. The concentration of the bleaching agent in professional settings is higher than what’s available in over-the-counter products, leading to more effective results.
Take-Home Kits from Dentists
Custom Trays
Dentists take an impression of your teeth and create custom-fit trays, ensuring maximum contact of the whitening product with your teeth and minimal contact with your gums, reducing the risk of irritation. You’ll fill these trays with a professional-grade whitening gel and wear them for a specified duration, usually several hours a day or overnight, for a set period.
Internal Bleaching
Typically reserved for teeth that have undergone root canal treatments and have discoloured over time. The dentist applies a whitening agent inside the tooth and a temporary filling. This remains for a few days until the desired shade is achieved.
Deep Bleaching
A combination of in-office and at-home treatments, this method is designed for teeth with severe discolouration. It often starts with an in-office session, then home treatments using custom trays, and ends with another in-office session.
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Opalescence Boost
This chemically activated formula whitens teeth without heat or ultraviolet rays. All these methods have their advantages and suitability based on individual needs.
While in-office treatments generally offer quicker results, take-home kits allow more flexibility in treatment timing. Always consult a dentist. An exceptional dentist in Sutton offers, who truly understands dental concerns, can determine which method suits your unique needs and desired outcomes.
