Treatments
Teeth can become discolored over time as a result of the aging process and the consumption of foods and drinks that can stain the teeth. There are a number of different treatment options available which can help to counteract this discoloration and make the teeth whiter.
Some teeth whitening treatments are conducted by a dentist in their surgery, while others are available as home teeth whitening kits. In both cases, a bleaching agent is used in order to remove stains from the teeth. However, dentists may sometimes use lasers or lights to speed up the process and make it more effective. Another difference between the teeth whitening treatments that are available for home use and those which are offered in surgery by dentist is the concentration of the bleaching agents which are used. Dentists can use stronger concentrations of bleaching agents safely than people are able to manage at home, so most home teeth whitening kits will contain lower bleach concentrations than those which are used by professionals. However, there are some disreputable suppliers who will offer strong bleach concentrations for home use. These products should be avoided, as they are likely to result in serious discomfort and, if they are strong enough, they could damage the tooth enamel.
In most cases, bleaching treatments will contain wither hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. This will be applied to the teeth in the form of a liquid or gel, using an applicator of some sort. Mouth trays, strips and other applicators are used. They ensure that the bleaching agent affects the teeth, but does not come into contact with the gums, which could result in discomfort. If the treatment is being administered by a dentist, then they may use a laser or light to activate the bleach and speed up the process. The treatment may need to be repeated a number of times in order to achieve the best results.
Dentists can also use a special type of whitening treatment on teeth that have been root treated. This means that a rubber filling has been inserted into the tooth as a replacement for the nerves and blood vessels. In order to whiten teeth that have undergone this type of treatment, the dentist can use a technique called internal bleaching, which alters the color of the tooth from the inside. This treatment requires bleach to be inserted into the tooth through a hole which has been drilled in it. The hole is then sealed with a temporary filling, which is left in place until the bleach has had its effect. The bleach can then be removed, and the hole filled with a permanent filling.
Whitening toothpaste is an alternative treatment for discolored teeth. Unlike teeth whiteners, whitening toothpaste does not contain bleaching agents. Instead, it contains a mild abrasive which can remove stains from the surface of the teeth through mechanical action. The underlying color of the teeth is not affected since the abrasive can only act on the surface of the teeth. The abrasive should not be too strong, or it could begin to wear away the enamel.