Natural tooth color can be discolored by a number of causes. The surface of the teeth can be stained by tobacco, certain foods and beverages (coffee, tea, berries) and by deposits of tartar. Internal discoloring of the tooth can result from aging, injury, excessive fluoride, certain illnesses and taking the antibiotic tetracycline during early childhood.
Teeth Whitening, also known as bleaching, is the least invasive procedure available, and it is also reasonably priced. Tooth Whitening involves simply a peroxide-type chemical being applied to your teeth. This chemical can seep through your enamel and actually whitens the tooth itself.
There are two types of bleaching procedures. Bleaching may be done completely in any of our offices or a teeth whitening system may be dispensed by your dentist to use at home.
The procedure that is done is our offices takes from 60 to 90 minutes per visit. It is not uncommon for the teeth to become slightly sensitive following bleaching treatments.
To protect the mouth, a gel-like substance may be applied to the gums and a rubber "shield" is placed around the necks of the teeth. A chemical solution, the oxidizing agent, is then "painted" on the teeth. A special light may be used to activate the agent.
With the home-use system, your dentist makes an impression for a model of your teeth, fabricates a custom-fitted bleaching tray and prescribes a bleaching agent that comes in the form of a bleaching gel. The gel is placed in the bleaching tray and worn up to two hours daily or at night for about two weeks. The amount of time the mouth guard is worn and the duration may vary according to your needs and your dentist's recommendations.
Some people with certain dental conditions may not be good candidates for this type of bleaching. Your dentist will be happy to help determine if this type of bleaching is right for you.
To learn more about cosmetic dentistry as well as other dental procedures in the Denver, CO, or to set up an appointment for a consultation, Email us or call Arbor Dental Group today.
