BLEACHING (TEETH WHITENING)
Nowadays people are seeking to have whiter teeth brighter teeth stains and black spots are considered to be un-acceptable. With the increase in whitening products sold over the country and television commercials dentist's have been forced to deal with the side effects of these products which are mainly:
• Generalized sensitivity in the teeth.
• Gum ulceration
Both may subside simultaneously or require intervention by the dentist if sever.
Types of bleaching are generally divided into:
1. Home bleaching (toothpastes, commercial kits)
2. Dental office bleaching
3. Bleaching of the inside of teeth that have had root canal treatment
It is advisable to see your dentist prior to bleaching to confirm if bleaching is suitable for you or not. You may require fillings or the use of desensitizing agents prior to bleahcing. White filling & Crowns can not be bleached. This means if you bleach your teeth your teeth may change color but the fiilling and crowns will not. After doing Dental Office Bleaching you must avoid smoking and drinking or eating anything that might stain a white cloth. This is because your teeth are prone to absorb the stains in the 1st 48 hours after bleaching.
Dental office bleaching may have to be repeated every 6 months to a year. It all depends on what you may eat & drink.