How Do You Know if Teeth-Whitening Will Work?: Oxnard Dentistry: General Dentists (2024)

FAQs

How do I know if teeth whitening will work? ›

For example, teeth whitening doesn't work the same for all types of stains and discolouration. Typically, whitening treatments are better at brightening teeth that are yellow than teeth that are grey, brown or black.

Tooth discoloration caused by medication, health conditions, or lost enamel may not respond well (or at all) to whitening treatments. On the other hand, stains from lifestyle and diet tend to respond well, but very heavy staining may require intensive whitening or other treatments to get the results you want.

Your dentist will advise you whether whitening is right for you. It may be that teeth whitening isn't suitable, for example if you have gum disease or crowns.

Whitening treatments can be effective on both extrinsic and intrinsic staining. Only natural teeth can be whitened, not tooth-colored restorations. Whitening treatments include in-office bleaching procedures, dentist-supplied products for use at home, and over-the-counter (OTC) whiteners.

In order to stop new stains from forming, it's also critical to practice excellent oral health by brushing and flossing frequently. In conclusion, several factors, such as intrinsic stains, enamel erosion, and inadequate post-treatment care, can make teeth appear yellow even after Zoom whitening.

After the treatment, it is natural for teeth' color to regress somewhat over time. This is normal and should be gradual, but it can be accelerated by exposing the teeth to various staining agents, such as coffee, tea, tobacco, red wine, colas, citrus drinks, fruits, etc.

The fact is, not all teeth respond to whitening. Furthermore, it is important to understand what whitening products you use can really make all the difference.

People who have restorations such as fillings, implants, crowns and dental bridges. Children under 16 years of age. Patients with periodontal disease, tooth decay, cavities and exposed roots. People who are allergic to teeth bleaching whitening agents like peroxide.

There isn't much safety data on teeth whitening for pregnant or breastfeeding women. And these groups are more likely to have inflamed gums and sensitivity after whitening due to hormonal changes during pregnancy. Children under the age of 16 also shouldn't use teeth whiteners without the guidance of a dentist.

Results are usually dramatic and, with touch-ups at home, last indefinitely. People with healthy teeth and gums are typically good candidates for teeth whitening. Gum disease, multiple restorations, and extensive decay disqualify individuals from this cosmetic procedure.

What would make you ineligible for teeth whitening? ›

You may not be a candidate for teeth whitening. If you are allergic to peroxide, you will not be able to have your teeth whitened, since peroxide is the active ingredient in whitening systems. If you have a lot of fillings, dental bonding or crowns, you may not be a candidate for dental whitening.

Lots of people can have teeth whitening treatment, but some people may not be suitable if they have gum disease or other dental health problems such as tooth decay. You'll need to have consultation with your dentist before having treatment, to assess the suitability of your teeth.

One of the most common side effects is tooth sensitivity, which can occur during or after treatment. Overuse or misuse of teeth whitening products can also lead to enamel damage, gum irritation, and discoloration. Additionally, some types of tooth discoloration may not respond well to teeth whitening treatments.

At-Home Custom Tray Whitening

For the safest and most effective at-home teeth whitening method, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) recommends you use custom-fitted trays supplied by your dentist.

Tooth whitening products containing or releasing between 0.1% and 6% hydrogen peroxide can ONLY be sold to dental practitioners; For each cycle of use, the first use can ONLY be carried out by dental practitioners or under their direct supervision, if an equivalent level of safety is ensured. whitening.

If your teeth are yellow, they may respond best to bleaching, while brown or grey teeth may not. If your teeth are striped or mottled from tetracycline or too much fluoride, they may not react or whiten evenly even when bleached.

Depending on the level of your staining and the type of whitening procedure you have done, you may be able to see results in about a week or two. To reach your desired whiteness, it may take about three weeks to a month. To maintain the shade, you will need to go for touch-up treatments or use prescribed home kits.

Another reason that teeth whitening might not work as expected is simply age. As we age, our tooth enamel wears down, and our teeth will appear more yellow in color. This is simply because the dentin becomes more visible, and teeth whitening is unlikely to change this.