Tooth discoloration is a common dental problem that can occur to anyone with reasons varying from person to person. Tobacco products such as cigarettes and pigmented drinks like tea and coffee are the common causes of discoloration. However, your teeth can form brown markings due to excess fluoride. Other factors such as large resin fillings and the use of drugs like tetracycline also cause stains on your enamel. Stained teeth are undesirable and can affect your self-image. Fortunately, teeth whitening in Temecula allows you to eliminate yellow colors and make your teeth several shades brighter.
What is teeth whitening?
It is the removal of stains on your enamel to make your teeth brighter than their initial shade. Teeth whitening can be done at your dentist’s office, or you can do it yourself at home. Today, there are different over-the-counter whitening products such as trays, rinses and toothpaste. Professional whitening is more costly than home bleaching. However, it guarantees you the best results in a short time. While teeth whitening is generally safe, your specialist may advise against the procedure if you have brown stains since they do not respond well to whitening products.
What are the risks of home teeth whitening?
Home teeth whitening can be an option if you want to save on money. However, it is essential to understand the risks involved that include:
- Chemical burns. Some home teeth whitening procedures involve the use of a gel with chemical products. Any slight contact between your gums and the solution can result in inflammation or burns. Using over-the-counter mouthguards may not be effective either since they usually do not fit properly. As a result, the gel may leak onto the surrounding area and cause burns.
- They damaged tooth enamel. Most home whitening products guarantee consumers instant results. Such products usually contain chlorine dioxide, a chemical used to clean swimming pools. However, patients end up obtaining bright teeth, the chemical strips away enamel. Using such products puts you at risk for tooth sensitivity.
- Mouth infections. The chemical burns and irritation resulting from home whitening products expose parts of your mouth and gums. Like a skin cut, an exposed wound in your mouth puts you at risk for infections due to the bacteria present in the oral cavity.
In-office whitening
Before the procedure, your dentist examines your teeth to check for cavities and gum infections. Treating any dental problems is essential before teeth whitening. Here is where your specialist determines whether you are a good candidate for teeth whitening. The procedure may not be effective if:
- You have brown stains
- Your teeth are sensitive
- You have dental restorations such as crowns and fillings
The dentist applies a whitening product directly to your teeth during teeth whitening and lets them sit for 15 to 30 minutes. Next, the product is washed off or suctioned, and the dentist repeats the same process several times until the desired shade is obtained. Using laser light, the doctor activates the action of whitening products. Expect to notice a difference after the first treatment. However, for more dramatic results, patients require subsequent treatment sessions.
You do not have to suffer the downsides of discolored teeth when you can do something about it. Book a session with your specialist at Sunshine Dental Inc. for teeth whitening to better your smile.
