One of the most popular and economical cosmetic procedures is tooth whitening or sometimes called bleaching. It is a simple procedure that can be done in the office or at home. When we age, our teeth may lose that bright white look we had in our youth due to factors such as tobacco, drinking coffee, red wine, tea or dark soft drinks. Your smile is important because it's one of the first things you notice when you meet someone. A whiter, brighter smile is beautiful - it can help you feel better about yourself and make a memorable impression.
Dr. Adams uses the POLA in office system for teeth whitening. The POLA System is a fast, convenient and long lasting procedure. It utilizes a low sensitivity bleach with a proven and safe track record. For others, the take home method is better suited for them. Dr. Adams will be happy to discuss the pros and cons specific to your individual needs.
To help you decide if Tooth Whitening is for you, please refer to the Question and Answer section below that will address the most common questions about the Tooth Whitening service.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT WHITENING:
What is tooth whitening?
Answer: Tooth whitening is the process by which the discolorations of the enamel are lightened.
How long will it last?
Answer: This will depend on the patient and the patient's oral habits. The average person will require periodic touch ups once or twice a year.
Is the treatment safe?
Answer: Yes. Clinical studies have shown that bleaching under the supervision of a dentist is safe for teeth and gums.
How white will my teeth get?
Answer: This will depend on your teeth and realistic expectations-everyone's teeth are different. There are some stains whitening can't eliminate. Dr. Adams can help ou decide what is best for you.
How does tooth whitening work?
Answer: The active ingredient (hydrogen peroxide) is broken down, allowing oxygen to enter the enamel and dentin, causing the stains to be lightened.
What causes teeth to discolor?
Answer: There are many causes of tooth discoloration. Some of the most common include the consumption of highly colored foods (beet root, candy etc) and drinks (coffee, sodas, red wine). Antibiotics consumed at an early age, natural aging, smoking, and trauma can also add to discoloration.
Do all teeth whiten evenly?
Answer:There is an overall whitening of all teeth. The biting edges of the teeth are more likely to whiten faster than the areas adjacent to the gum. It should also be noted that in some patients whitening can result in a frosty, chalky appearance of the teeth, but this usually reverts to a more natural translucent appearance after several hours to several weeks (very rare).
Are there any side effects?
Answer: For the majority of patients, there are none. However, some will experience temporary sensitivity (dull or sharp) on the teeth and/or gums. This will subside after several hours after stopping the treatment. The wear times can be shortened or made less frequent or a topical desensitizing toothpaste or gel can be used. Abstain from carbonated drinks, citrus foods and beverages to avoid sensitivity for a few hours after treatment.
Are there any long term effects?
Answer: The active ingredient in the process is hydrogen peroxide which breaks down to water and oxygen. Dentists have been using hydrogen peroxide for over 50 years to whiten teeth, and there have been no known long-term adverse effects.
What causes teeth to stain again after bleaching?
Answer: The same things that made them stain in the first place.( general aging, red wine, smoking, tea, coffee, colored foods etc.)
How often do you have to get your teeth whitened?
Answer: If you are a smoker, drink red wines, dark soft drinks, and consume other staining foods, you may have to bleach more often. nce your teeth are whitened it usually lasts 1-3 years, however, some people prefer to have touch-ups every 6-12 months.
Is it better to get the pola treatment now or wait until my teeth are more stained?
Answer: It is better to get it done now as the stains will become worse and darker as time passes. The teeth will then require more applications of bleach as stains will be harder to remove.
Are my teeth more easily stained now that they have been whitened?
No, the chances of staining your teeth are not increased once they have been whitened as long as you follow the post treatment care instructions given by your dentist.
Is it better for my dentist to do the entire procedure or for me to take home pola and do-it-myself?
Answer: If you want a fast 30-60 minute result, let your dentist perform pola office on you. If you have spare time, do-it-yourself with pola day or pola night.
Will my crowns, veneers, and fillings get whiter?
Answer: No, only your natural teeth will.
Is it safe to whiten my teeth if I am pregnant or lactating?
Answer: No. Studies have been advising pregnant or lactating women not to undergo bleaching.
