Tooth Whitening FAQs & Answers from a Brampton Dentist
Teeth whitening is the most popular dental procedure, and there is a lot of product information and misinformation out there. If you’re considering brightening your smile with whiter teeth, here’s what you should know.
What Causes Teeth To Change Colour?
There are many tooth whitening treatments available, but they may or may not work, depending on the reason teeth change colour in the first place.
• What you eat and drink – Foods and beverages with certain types of colour pigmentation can stain teeth, including red wine, coffee, and tea. The pigment, called chromogens, attaches to tooth enamel.
• Smoking – The tar and nicotine in cigarettes can cause your teeth to stain a yellowish colour.
• Aging – As you age, the enamel of your teeth can begin to wear off, and reveal the more yellow-hued dentin underneath.
• Accidental injuries – If you have been hit in the mouth, even if teeth aren’t actually cracked or broken, they may respond to the blow with extra layers of dentin, which is yellowish in colour.
• Medications – Certain types of medications can cause teeth to darken, including some antihistamines, anti-psychotic drugs, high blood pressure medications, and chemotherapy.
Teeth Whitening – Questions & Answers
Do I need to see my dentist, or can I buy tooth-whitening products at the pharmacy?
Whether DIY teeth whitening products work in your case depends on several factors, including the causes of the condition of your teeth. Your dentist can advise you on what is best for you.
How does teeth whitening work?
Teeth whitening agents contain bleaching agents, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The bleaching agents break down the stain material, reducing its colour.
What are my teeth whitening options?
There are a few different options available.
- Stain removal toothpastes – Look for the ADA/CDA Seal of Acceptance on the package. This can remove surface stains from your teeth and is the mildest option.
- Store-bought whitening strips – The ADA/CDA Seal of Acceptance ensures a safe and effective product. Somewhat stronger than toothpaste, it is not as strong as the solutions your dentist can provide and will work only for mild staining
- Take-home whitening kits – Your dentist can give you a bleaching solution, with a tray that is custom-made for your bite. This option takes a few days or up to a few weeks, depending on the condition of your teeth. Your dentist can offer a much stronger product than you can buy over the counter, making it suitable for situations that require deep cleaning rather than very mild stain removal.
- In-Office Zoom Whitening Treatments – Safe and affordable, our Zoom teeth whitening treatments are done by trained professionals in the comfort of our dental office in the heart of Brampton.
Caveats
As with any dental procedure, there are some caveats to keep in mind:
• Teeth whitening only works on natural teeth – not crowns, caps, or other porcelain work.
• Side effects may include tooth sensitivity if the peroxide reaches the nerves.
• Overusing whitening products can eventually damage the enamel or even the gums. Ask your dentist for advice if you’re not sure.
• If you have delicate, sensitive, or otherwise problematic teeth, we urge you to see your dentist before you try any teeth whitening products.
Looking for advice on teeth whitening, or any other aspect of your oral and dental health? You’ll find the answer at Keshavarz Dentistry in Brampton, ON.
If you’re looking for a well-regarded, highly skilled dentist, make an appointment with Dr. F. Keshavarz by calling (905) 791-3867 to learn more about our dental services in Brampton.
