Cosmetic dentistry provides methods that can be used to improve the look of the teeth. Teeth whitening are a procedure that lightens teeth and helps to remove stains and discoloration. Whitening is among the most popular and easiest cosmetic dental procedures because it can improve the appearance of your teeth tremendously.
The most common reasons for yellowing or stained teeth are aging, consumption of beverages like tea and coffee, smoking and tobacco. They can stain the surface of the teeth. This is called extrinsic staining.
Some stains are present inside the tooth. These are called intrinsic stains. For example: intrinsic stains are caused due to the exposure to too much fluoride in childhood while the teeth are developing. Other causes include tetracycline antibiotics.
Tooth whitening is most effective on surface stains caused by age, foods or drinks or in other words extrinsic stains. It is also effective only on enamel layer of the tooth.
Teeth need to be prepared before whitening. Cavities if present need to be treated before Teeth whitening because the whitening solution can penetrate deep into the decay and reach inner areas of the tooth. This can cause sensitivity. Teeth whitening cannot be done on exposed tooth roots, because roots do not have an enamel layer. Whitening cannot be done on crowns or veneers.
Teeth whitening are not a permanent solution to discolored teeth. It has to be repeated once in six months. Pregnant women must avoid teeth whitening because the effect of the whitening solutions on the foetus is not known.
Joined: 2008-04-11