Alhaurin Dental Centre - World class Dental Care
TEETH WHITENING

Tooth Whitening In-Office Tooth Whitening

Sit back in the dentist's chair while a solution containing 35- to 50-percent hydrogen peroxide (the whitening ingredient) is applied to your teeth and activated by a high-intensity light or laser to accelerate the process. Approximately one hour later, you're on your way out the door. The dentist should do an examination before the tooth whitening procedure to determine if you're an appropriate candidate. Worn-down enamel or large pulps (the inner structure of the tooth containing nerves, arteries, veins and tissues) can mean your teeth might be too sensitive to endure the treatment. Be aware that several visits may be needed to get your desired tooth shade.

Over-the-Counter Whiteners
Whitening toothpastes and paint-on whiteners may not contain enough hydrogen peroxide or remain on teeth long enough to make a significant difference on their own. But they can help prolong the effects of in-office tooth whitening or take-home tray treatments. Talk with your dentist about the best over-the-counter options for you.
At-Home Tooth Whitening

Your dentist may suggest at-home tooth whitening, a less-expensive option that requires a longer commitment but may still yield the same results as in-office tooth whitening. It's also an alternative for patients with teeth too sensitive for laser or other light-induced whitening. Thin plastic trays are custom-molded to fit your teeth. You wear the trays filled with a solution of two- to ten-percent hydrogen peroxide for one to three hours a day for several weeks.

Getting White Right
What causes your teeth to discolor? Top stain-makers are red wine, coffee, cola soft drinks, tea and tobacco. Certain medications can also affect color. The antibiotic tetracycline can cause permanent tooth discoloration. Minocycline, another antibiotic often prescribed to treat acne, is one of the worst culprits for turning teeth dark. Genetics also play a role in determining tooth color. Some people simply have naturally brighter enamel.
How will your teeth respond to bleaching? It depends on all the factors mentioned above as well as their hue.