Blinded by the White! - Part 2 (2/3)
Got White Teeth?
According to the American Dental
Association, tooth whitening was the
number one patient concern in 2006. The
recent explosion in popularity of the various
tooth-whitening methods has led to
sales of over- the-counter tooth whitening
products totaling over $300 million in
2005! This tremendous growth has fueled
an industry that has products and procedures
that range from over the counter
whitening toothpastes and rinses to stickon
strips to professionally administered
systems. This array of choices can certainly
make one's head spin when deciding
what is best for you.
When it comes to tooth whitening, as with all cosmetic procedures, it is very important to understand what your expectations are and to realize where you are starting. People who have yellowish teeth tend to see the greatest whitening results. Those who have grayish or brownish teeth will have a more difficult time whitening their teeth. Often times additional cosmetic procedures are needed.
The effectiveness of any tooth whitening method is directly related to the following:
- How strong is the whitening agent?
- How long is the whitening agent in contract with the teeth?
For this reason, the whitening toothpastes and rinses tend to be the least effective; they have the lowest concentration of whitening agent. Other methods, such as tooth-whitening strips, have shown better results for some people as they have increased concentrations of a whitening agent and are in contact with the teeth longer, from 30 to 60 minutes. It is important to remember when using whitening strips that the best results are achieved if your teeth are moderately white to begin with and straight so that the strips can be applied to all teeth evenly. Again, make sure you have realistic expectations and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
For the best results, most people will need the help of a dentist. After a thorough exam, the dentist can advise you which method will give you the best results. Many dentists use two professional procedures. The first uses custom-made take home whitening trays. This is the most popular method and provides excellent results for most people. After molds of your teeth are taken, comfortable custom fitted plastic trays are made. A whitening gel is place in the trays. Then you place them on your teeth and wear them for 30 minutes to overnight, depending on what your dentist recommends. Most people will begin to see results in two to five days with maximum whiteness achieved from one to four weeks. The second method includes in-office whitening. Depending on the system used, a light source may or may not be used. All in office systems take one to two appointments of approximately 60 to 90 minutes each. You can expect to see noticeably whiter teeth after the first session.
It's important to note that both over the counter and professional tooth whitening methods are safe when used as directed but they can have some minor side effects. The most common side effect is temporary discomfort or sensitivity. Should this occur, it is recommended that you stop using the product and consult with your dentist. Additionally, no tooth whitening method is permanent and the results can last from eight to twelve months, depending on what you eat and drink. Notably, coffee, red wine, tea, and nicotine will reduce the whitening effects. In order to maintain the whiteness you desire, you will need to re-whiten your teeth periodically.
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Dr David Kaffey - Providing services in cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening and aesthetic dentistry to the areas of Malvern, Wayne, West Chester, King of Prussia, Exton, Devon, Villa Nova, Newtown Square, Berwyn, Radnor, St. Davids, Valley Forge, Main Line, Paoli and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Main Line Cosmetic Dentist
12 South Valley Road Paoli, PA 19301 | Ph. 866.930.1921
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