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There are many products and procedures available for tooth lightening. This article will review some of these and analyze their effectiveness.
Everybody today is concerned about his or her appearance. The color of one’s teeth is one of these concerns. The question is which bleaching product is worthwhile and which isn’t? There are many products and ways available to bleach teeth. Part of the decision making process will involve the treating dentist’s recommendations, as well as patient preferences. The following will describe some of the different options available. MythsAccording to the ADA, bleaching products are effective, but don’t correct all types of discoloration. They work best on teeth that have yellow hues, somewhat effective on teeth with brown hues and fairly ineffective on teeth with gray hues. One bleaching application or session may not be enough to produce the whitening desired. In addition to this, bridges, crowns and fillings will not whiten. These, most likely, would need to be replaced once the bleaching has been done. In the case of those people, whose teeth don’t lighten up adequately, porcelain laminates or composite facings are other esthetic procedures that should be considered. Another myth is that bleach damages teeth. Studies conducted by the ADA have shown that this simply isn’t true. However, bleaching can cause tooth sensitivity when used. The sensitivity will wane once the bleaching solution is stopped. Also, if the gums are exposed to the bleaching solution they can become irritated. Again discontinuing use will alleviate this problem. In the officeSome bleaching can be done in the office. The procedure may require more than one visit. The typical length of each visit is anywhere from thirty minutes to one hour. A protective gel or rubber dam is placed around the teeth to protect the gums. The bleaching solution is then swabbed on the teeth to be bleached. A heating lamp, light or laser is then applied to the bleach to activate the ingredients. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, each bleaching session could cost up to five hundred dollars and can lighten teeth anywhere from five to seven shades or more. Take homeTake home bleaching products are another way for patients to lighten their teeth. Dentists will make molds of the teeth to be bleached, and the patients are dispensed peroxide products that bleach the tooth enamel. The solution is usually carbamide peroxide that can be given in different concentrations. These gels are then placed into the molds and are worn overnight or twice a day for as long as two weeks. Treatment costs around four to five hundred dollars and teeth may lighten between 4 to 7 shades. Over-the-counter productsOver the counter bleaching materials aren’t as effective as the bleach that dentist’s prescribe. The ADA seal of acceptance is on only two current products, Proctor and Gamble’s Crest Whitening Strips and Colgate Palmolive’s Co’s Simply White. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry states that these products only brighten the teeth by one or two shades at best. In addtion, tooth whitening toothpastes are good for the removal of stains and not for tooth color changes. Bleaching is a safe, effective and less costly way to brighten up one’s smile. As with any bleaching procedure, teeth need to be touched up every so often to maintain color integrity. How often, will depend on factors such as smoking, tea or coffee drinking. Consultation with a dentist and the use of ADA approved materials is advised, to ensure the best possible results.
The copyright of the article Tooth Bleaching Products in Oral Health is owned by Cyrus Dehkan. Permission to republish Tooth Bleaching Products in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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