Uncertainty Surrounds Tooth White Smile Treatments
How long will Tooth White lightening last?
The Tooth White lightening results of different bleaching techniques can last for one or two years, but this varies from individual to individual. Research on dentist prescribed "home" bleaching treatment has discovered that for folk who achieved a lighter shade, only half of them still had better teeth half a year later. Your eating, drinking, smoking and brushing habits may have an impact on how long these Tooth White treatments last.
It's important to keep in mind that bleaching doesn't always result in the whiteness that you predict. The results alter from person to person and rely on the shade of your teeth before bleaching. For this reason, it's important to discuss all the possible options for making improvements to the appearance of your teeth with your dentist before you decide on the Tooth White treatment for you.
Special concerns
There are some instances when a dentist may endorse that you do not have bleaching. For instance, if you have tooth rot, this may be treated before starting any Tooth White lightening treatments. In a similar way, your gums should be healthy, so if you have any gum disease this is going to be treated .
If your teeth are extremely responsive to hot and cold food or drinks, bleaching won't be recommended because to obtain that Tooth White smile, a degree of sensitiveness may have to be endured.
Some types of staining ( for example tetracycline antibiotic marking ) doesn't reply to bleaching as well as others. Bleaching, if successful, may take longer on tetracycline discolored teeth.
Bleaching will not work on false teeth, crowns, veneers or fillings ( including tooth colored fillings ). Instead, your dentist may be able to replace these with lighter ones.
Bleaching isn't customarily recommended for children whose teeth are still developing or for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Deciding on treatment
There is no proof to show that Tooth White bleaching is dangerous to the gums, but it isn't clear what the long-term effect on the nerves and arteries within the teeth are.
All dental treatment carries a risk of side effects, which are the unwished-for, but mostly non permanent results of a successful treatment. Side-effects include temporary sensitiveness of the teeth to hot and cold, a sore throat, tender gums and white patches on the gums. These side-effects should disappear after one or two days. Contact your dentist if the symptoms persist.
