New Concepts In Tooth Whitening

Most people are aware that it is possible to bleach one's teeth to make them more esthetically pleasing.

There are several options available, each having pros and cons to consider. I'll overview the possibilities and my recommendation of the optimal choice.

1. Purchase over the counter products at a drugstore or some grocery stores. Although these items such as Crest Strips do work moderately well, they are difficult to keep on the teeth. Due to the adhesive strip, it often shifts and the formulation is quite weak. Therefore, taking longer to work than other options.
2. Use whitening toothpastes. Within the dental community it is generally considered skeptical as to its claim for making teeth whiter; however, the products tends to keep teeth their present color.
3. In Office bleaching. This procedure works both quickly and well; but, due to the mechanics of the procedure, the teeth may end up being quite sensitive for a period of time.
4. Take Home bleaching. I believe these offer the best all-around result plus the best value. This option also is the best for removing deep stains due to the increased contact time.

There are several types of take home bleaching available:

• Day time bleaching: Patients wear a clear, flexible tray where bleach is applied for a total of one hour each day. The whitening agent applied in the day time wear method is effective for about 30 minutes so patients usually apply twice daily for up to eight days.
• Night time bleaching: The trays used for this procedure are similar to the day time bleaching method; however, the trays are worn for the entire night while the patient is asleep. This formulation is good for six hours lasting most of the sleep duration.

Even the take home bleaching agents can cause some sensitivity. Our practice now uses a formulation that includes desensitizing agents that balance the pH levels and increases patient comfort. Some products will even make the teeth "harder". If the gum tissue gets irritated, healing will occur with temporary limited use of trays and the application of topical vitamin E oil.

Usually, the take home bleaching procedure should be accomplished within 7-8 days and an initial result will be noticed after the first day or night of wear. Bleaching is very safe and the results can be amazing; but, as with anything else it should not be used for a very long period of time as the teeth may become rather "translucent" actually picking up a blueish tint.

Our office is happy to answer your questions about bleaching and to determine the best approach for you to get those pearly whites even whiter!

Photo by Cros Dental