Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic procedures which a dental professional helps patients with today. Despite its popularity, not everyone may be a good candidate for this type of treatment. Find out whether you are a good candidate for this procedure and what special considerations you may need to make below.
Why Is Teeth Whitening So Popular?
Your teeth will become discolored for a number of reasons:
Beverages (tea, coffee, red wine and colas are the worst)
Foods (dark colored berries such as blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries)
Tobacco
Certain medications
Dental trauma
Excessive fluoride use
Apart from the reasons listed above, the aging process itself will cause your teeth to become stained and discolored. As we grow older, the enamel on our teeth begins to thin which leaves our pearly whites less than pearly and more prone to staining.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Teeth Whitening?
The best candidates for Teeth Whitening in Fairfield County CT are those who have healthy and unrestored teeth (this means no fillings) and healthy gums. Individuals who have yellow stained teeth will respond best to this type of treatment though brown stains or even gray stains can be reduced through tooth whitening.
Who Is Not a Good Candidate for Teeth Whitening?
No one under the age of 16 should have their teeth whitened. Before the age of 16, the nerve of the tooth is enlarged and is more prone to damage. The bleaching process could negatively affect the nerve and cause the tooth to become sensitive. Individuals who have sensitive teeth and gums may be a candidate for tooth whitening. However, they should discuss this with their dentist as it can increase the sensitivity of one’s teeth. There may be alternative options for these individuals, as well as those who are allergic to peroxide (the whitening agent used in most common teeth whitening products).
Patients who are suffering from gum disease or who have exposed roots are not good candidates for tooth whitening. Those who currently have untreated cavities may be a good candidate. However the cavities may need to be filled and treated prior to the procedure.
Special Considerations
While on the topic of fillings, it is important for patients to realize that any fillings which are tooth colored, as well as other resin composite materials used for dental restorations (this includes veneers, crowns, bondings, and bridges) do not bleach and whiten. This may leave a patient with an uneven whitening effect as the untreated teeth will whiten, yet the treated teeth will not. When discussing your desire for teeth whitening in Fairfield County CT with your dentist, he or she will help you come up with a plan so that you can achieve that whiter and brighter smile you have always wanted.
