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All About Teeth Whitening

Century Dentistry Bend • December 19, 2022

All about Teeth Whitening

We all dream of having white healthy teeth, which will boost our confidence, and open new opportunities in life.

A tooth has an outer covering called enamel, which is the most mineralized part of the tooth and thus provides protection from external factors.

But, the enamel is the most affected part by the pigments found in many foods and drinks, so with time and increasing age, it takes up this pigment and changes color.


How can my teeth get whiter?


The first step is visiting your dentist, as teeth whitening is a dental procedure that a dentist should prescribe.


The dentist will have two teeth-whitening options:


1-In-office bleaching: It involves using a high concentration of hydrogen carbamide peroxide gel on the teeth after protecting the gums with a gingival barrier. This gel comes in two varieties: light-activated and chemically activated. It is applied to the teeth for 15-20 minutes and can be repeated for up to an hour.

Keep in mind that, according to your case and the level of bleaching reached after the first session, the dentist may advise you to take more sessions.


2-At-home bleaching: Sometimes you want to bleach your teeth from the comfort of your home. The dentist takes an impression of your teeth and sends it to the lab to make a tray. Then you take the tray and a low concentration of carbamide peroxide, and you add the gel inside the tray and wear it for a long time; sometimes it's recommended to wear it overnight because it has a low concentration, so wearing it for a longer time is required to have a good effect.

 

How does hydrogen or carbamide peroxide work?

They work by creating small pores on the surface of teeth, then their oxygen molecules react with the discolored molecules and break the bonds holding them together.

 

Can I use home mixtures to bleach my teeth?

Using them isn’t recommended, as instead of whitening the teeth, they create a great deal of surface roughness, which increases the risk of aggressive future staining or even caries.

 

Can teeth be negatively affected by whitening procedures?

If teeth whitening is done professionally at the dentist's office or even at home under his supervision, teeth won’t be affected at all. It is good to know that pores created during the bleaching process are closed at the end of the procedure.

 

 

How do I maintain my bleaching results?

Teeth whitening effects aren’t permanent; they may fade out over time, but you can increase that time by:


1-Complying with postoperative instructions, such as avoiding dark-colored foods and beverages for at least one week after the procedure.


2-Using a straw while drinking colored beverages to reduce the time the teeth are in contact with them.


3-Having a very good oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing at least twice a day.

 

Knowing more about teeth whitening, are you planning to have it in the future?

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One of the key advantages of opting for a family pediatric dentist is their ability to create a comfortable and friendly environment for children. From the waiting room to the dental chair, these dentists and their staff are trained to make each visit a positive experience for your child. This helps build a healthy foundation for proper oral hygiene habits and reduces anxiety surrounding dental appointments. In addition, family pediatric dentists possess the knowledge and skills to diagnose and treat dental issues specific to children, such as tooth decay, gum diseases, and developmental problems. They are also well-versed in preventive techniques to ensure optimal dental health for your child. By choosing a family pediatric dentist, you're not only investing in your child's present dental well-being but also setting the stage for a lifetime of positive oral health habits. Make your child's dental experience a pleasant one with the expertise and care of a family pediatric dentist. 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