Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dental procedures sought out by patients generating numerous over-the-counter products which claim to whiten your teeth. However, over-the-counter whitening products can only provide mild levels of certain ingredients and often produce mediocre results.
Understanding Teeth Staining
Tooth staining is a natural phenomenon that occurs naturally over time. Certain habits exacerbate staining and understanding the anatomy of teeth will help us recognize and combat the process.
Each tooth is made up of layers, with each layer serving an important purpose. The inner dentin layer makes up the bulk of the tooth and protects the pulp material.
The outer layer, the enamel, protects the tooth from temperature and injury. It’s also the visible layer, where most stains accumulate. The enamel layer is made up of microscopic hexagonal rods of hydroxyapatite crystals, which is a scientific way of explaining the porous nature of teeth. Although very strong, the enamel layer is not completely solid and similar to your skin in its permeability.
Bleaching Basics
Most whiteners use a form of peroxide to push stains out of the enamel pores. These chemicals create an oxidation reaction that breaks apart the staining compounds. At-home whitening kits are intended to be used without dentist’s supervision, so they are much less concentrated than the formulas used by dentists in their office.
In-office whitening achieves more dramatic results quickly because dentists are qualified to use highly concentrated peroxide solutions. These chemicals can irritate or even damage the soft tissues in the mouth, so your dentist must protect the gums and tongue from contact.
There are a few different methods used for applying the whitening gel. Take-home or over the counter options often rely on a tray to hold the gel in shape. The tray functions best if molded to fit the teeth. Some over the counter whiteners are simple strips that stick to the surface of the teeth. In office whitening relies on the steady application of hydrogen peroxide gel and controlled UV light activation.
Whiten Your Teeth at Pasadena Smiles
At Pasadena Smiles, Dr. Koutchek and Dr. Spero offer the whitening services that will help your smile look it’s best. After a complete examination, we can help you find the best method of teeth whitening to provide you with the results you want. Give us a call to schedule your consultation today.