Answers To 3 Common Teeth Whitening Questions

Dentist Blog

If you're self-conscious about stains and discoloration on your teeth, you've probably considered teeth whitening. While teeth whitening is a common dental procedure, there are still a lot of misinformation about it that requires clearing up. Below are three common questions that many have about teeth whitening, and the answers that can help you decide whether whitening would be best for you.

1. If I Have Sensitive Teeth, Should I Even Consider Whitening?

Increased sensitivity can occur during the whitening process, so what happens if your teeth are already susceptible to sensitivity?

There are a few ways in which you can prepare for your teeth whitening session. The use of a desensitizing toothpaste is one possible way to desensitize teeth, and there are two common kinds: those containing potassium and those containing calcium. Both products can result in less sensitive teeth, though those undergoing whitening treatments in the near future may have better luck with the potassium-containing formula as it's more resistant to acid erosion and abrasions.  

2. If I Have Fillings, Veneers, or Crowns, Is Whitening Worth It?

Tooth whitening works due to a process called oxidation. When the whitening chemical is applied to your teeth, oxygen molecules from the bleaching agent penetrate the enamel and break the bond between the discolored molecules that can be found within your teeth. As the oxygen molecules spread, your teeth become whiter from the inside out.

Unfortunately, the bleaching agent doesn't work on fillings, veneers, and crowns. Does this mean that whitening is out of the question? Absolutely not. Your dentist can usually match the shade of your fillings, veneers, or crowns, so that whitening can still take place, but the difference between your natural teeth and dental devices won't be noticeable.

3. How Can I Ensure the Results of the Whitening Procedure Last as Long as Possible?

While the length of time that your teeth will remain looking newly whitened is different for everyone, there are some things you can do to ensure it lasts as long as possible.

Aside from continuing regular dental hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, and twice yearly dental visits, you should also work to avoid foods and beverages that can cause staining. Red wine, coffee, and tea are the biggest culprits, though sodas, tomato-based sauces, and even berries can also have a staining effect. If avoiding some of your favorite foods seems impossible, you can lessen the effects of staining by rinsing your mouth with water immediately after consumption and chewing sugarless gum after every meal.

To learn more about teeth whitening and whether it may be right for you, consult your dentist or a company like Fresh Wave Dental Care PC. They can answer all questions specific to your particular case and offer the best advice when it comes to deciding on the whitening procedures right for you.  

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25 August 2015

Coping With Dental Emergencies

My son was outside playing with some friends when he accidentally fell down and hit his mouth on the sidewalk. The fall knocked out his front tooth, so I immediately placed the tooth in a small jar and added some milk. I rushed my son to the dental clinic and the dentist immediately took us into the examination room. The dentist placed the tooth back into the socket and saved it. My name is Beverly Tillman and thanks to the quick work of the dentist, my son didn't lose his tooth. Since this was a scary time for me and my son, I wanted to write this blog as a source of information for other parents who are facing a dental emergency. First of all, don't panic and get to your dentist as soon as possible. I hope this blog will help to answer your questions about dental emergencies.