Tooth Whitening
By Ronald Duffin DDS

Tooth whitening is a bleaching process (using carbamide peroxide) that lightens discoloration of the enamel and dentin.  This system uses a mild solution retained in a custom-fitted tray that is worn over your teeth. 

There are many causes for tooth discoloration.  The most common are aging, consumption of staining substances (such as coffee, tea, cola and tobacco), trauma, nerve degeneration and old restorations.  During tooth formation, consumption of tetracycline or excessive fluoride may also cause tooth discoloration.

Anyone can benefit from tooth whitening.  However, there are some cases where the treatment may not be effective.  A dentist will determine viable candidates for the process through oral examination and diagnosis.  Tooth whitening is ideal for patients who have healthy, unrestored teeth and would like to have a whiter, brighter smile.

The gel is placed in a thin bleaching tray that fits over your teeth.  As hydrogen peroxide (the active ingredient in the gel) is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin and bleaches the colored substances.  Only the tooth color is made lighter, while the structure of the tooth is unchanged.  The process is safe for the teeth and gums. The bleaching time is 30 minutes per day for 10-14 days.  Some people will experience temporary tooth sensitivity during the treatment.  These symptoms will disappear within 1-3 days after interruption or completion of the treatment.

The teeth will always be lighter than they were.  However, some patients may want to “touch up” their teeth by re-whitening for one or two days, usually once to twice a year.
Overall benefits of whitening are obvious for many - others may want to consult with their dentist if they have restorations or porcelain crowns on their anterior teeth.