The most often asked question in our office is, "What do you think about bleaching my teeth", or "Can I do anything to make my teeth whiter".
Does Tooth Bleaching Work?The answer is yes. In nearly every case, the results are what we expect and want. There are some important exceptions however.
To understand the exceptions, one must first know how the process works. Teeth get the majority of their color from the dentin. This is the mineralized part of the tooth that is located just below the enamel. Denton color varies with complexion, and hair color. Drugs, diet, and other factors can alter the color dentin. In addition, enamel can be stained from the uses of carbonated beverages, especially colas, smoking, and other factors. Most stains in enamel are easily bleached. Dentin color is slower to stain and is more subject to color relapse. Tetracycline stained teeth are very slow to bleach.
Teeth with noticeable translucent areas should not be bleached since the bleaching will worsen this effect, making the teeth appear darker.
Some sensitivity is usually notice during bleaching, but this quickly fades.
Bleaching can be done either in the office, or at home. The home bleach takes longer, has less sensitivity, and the color is easier to control. Office bleaching is faster, usually one visit.
The science of tooth bleaching is nearly twenty years old, but the formulations of the bleaching agent have changed allow us to bleach much more effectively and safely.
©2003 Dr. James S. Eaves, DDS
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