Teeth Whitening
Madison, WI
 Tooth whitening consists of lightening the teeth, which is done due to numerous reasons. It can be either of extrinsic or intrinsic enamel. It is a cosmetic procedure done either clinically or at home, and is ideal for people with no history of dental procedures like fillings or dental crowns. Madison Family Dental Associates can guide you through the process and let you know if you need teeth whitening or not.
Why You May Need Tooth Whitening?
Tooth staining is the leading cause of getting a whitening procedure. Tooth staining may be caused by foods like coffee, soda, tea, which stain an individual’s teeth over time. It can also be due to decoloration of the tooth due to plaque and tartar and other oral issues. Tooth decoloration is also at times caused by aging and smoking. As a person ages, their enamel wears down, making it easier for it to get discolored. Smoking also damages the enamel of the teeth leading to discoloration.
Tooth Whitening Procedure
The most recommended way is getting it done at a clinic by a professional. There are numerous types done at home or at the dentist’s office, through which teeth whitening is done. We will go through them step by step.
Whitening toothpaste contains hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. Both these chemicals help whiten the teeth. Whitening gels, which are clear and contain peroxide, are used by applying a small amount and a small brush to whiten the teeth. Whitening strips are almost invisibly thin strips consisting of a layer of peroxide when applied, help in whitening of the teeth. Whitening rinses are also used, which is a time taking process, but it helps reduce plaque and gum diseases along with whitening of the teeth. Mouthpiece tray whiteners are gum shaped tray like instruments filled with a whitening gel and placed over the teeth. This tray is worn for the prescribed time and helps whiten the teeth. Lastly, in-office bleaching is a quick method that involves getting the teeth bleached through a dental bleach or whitening product in our dentist’s office within 30-60 minutes.
At Home Whitening
The procedures mentioned above, if done at home, the patient should keep a few things in mind as professionally done, and at-home whitening procedures have different results.
Tooth bleaching products used at home have a lower bleach content whereas, professionally used bleaching products have a higher concentration of bleach. When getting a whitening procedure at a clinic, the dentist can take an impression of the teeth to make a satisfyingly fitting tray for the mouth. Whereas, trays used at home seldom fit the shape of your mouth.
Moreover, at a clinic, the dentist may use a protective shield for the gums to protect them from damage. At-home products do not provide such a facility, leading to gum damage if not done carefully.
Whitening is a procedure helpful to people with tooth staining and for people with yellow undertones. Done both at home and professionally, it has proved to be quite helpful to many. For more information on whitening feel free to contact Madison Family Dental Associates at 608-274-5970. |
