Your smile is often the first thing people notice about you! One of the easiest ways to improve your smile
is through whitening. Below are some of
the most frequently asked questions we receive about whitening.
Q: Am I a candidate for bleaching?
A: A proper dental exam is the first step in deciding
whether or not you are a candidate for whitening. We need to determine the cause of discoloration
before we can decide whether bleaching will help. There are several causes for discoloration
(abscessed or nonvital teeth, decay) for which bleaching may mask the problem,
but not resolve it.
Q: What are the different whitening options?
A: There are 3 options: in-office (Zoom!)
whitening, at-home bleaching (with custom made plastic trays), and
over-the-counter products. The
concentration of bleaching solution, duration of treatment, and cost vary with
each option.
Q: If my teeth become sensitive
during treatment, what can I do?
A: Sensitivity is a common
side-effect of bleaching. We suggest
reducing the frequency of bleaching (every other day instead of every
day). We also have desensitizing
pastes/gels that can be placed into the bleaching try to help reduce
sensitivity.
Q: How long will it take and how
long do the results last?
A: While everyone’s results vary
depending on frequency of use, many people see maximum results with at-home
whitening (using custom trays) in about 2 weeks. No bleaching method can whiten permanently,
but results last from 6 months to 2 years, at which time touch-up applications
are indicated. Keeping up with regular oral hygiene, avoiding tobacco and
beverages that stain (coffee, soda, tea, red wine) can help make bleaching
effects last as long as possible.
Q: I have a lot of gum recession and exposed roots. Can I still bleach?
A: Exposed tooth roots do not bleach, so if you have root
exposure that is visible when you smile, the results won’t be ideal. There are other cosmetic options which we can
talk with you about.
Q: What if I have porcelain crowns or composite fillings on
my front teeth?
A: Composites and porcelain restorations will remain the
same color. If you wish to bleach, you
have to consider what it will look like if your natural teeth bleach but your
restorations do not. Talk with us to
discuss options for your particular case. If you are interested in learning more about the whitening options we provide, please visit us at www.kalamazoodds.com.
