Uncertainty Surrounds Tooth White Smile Treatments
How long will Tooth White lightening last?
The Tooth White lightening effects of different bleaching techniques can go on for 1 or 2 years, but this varies from individual to individual. Research on dentist prescribed "home" bleaching treatment has revealed that for people who achieved a whiter shade, only half of them still had nicer teeth six months later. Your eating, drinking, smoking and brushing habits may have an effect on how long these Tooth White treatments last.
It is important to keep in mind that bleaching doesn't always result in the whiteness that you are expecting. The results change from person to person and depend on the shade of your teeth before bleaching. For this reason, it is important to discuss all of the possible options for bettering the appearance of your teeth with your dentist before you make a decision on the Tooth White treatment for you.
Special issues
There are some examples when a dentist may recommend that you do not have bleaching. For instance, if you have tooth decay, this is going to be treated before beginning any Tooth White lightening treatments. Similarly, your gums should be healthy, so if you have got any gum illness this could be treated .
If your teeth are extremely receptive to hot and cold food or drinks, bleaching won't be endorsed because to obtain that Tooth White grin, a degree of sensitivity might have to be endured.
Some types of marking ( for instance tetracycline antibiotic marking ) doesn't respond to bleaching as well as others. Bleaching, if successful, may take longer on tetracycline stained teeth.
Bleaching will not work on false teeth, crowns, veneers or fillings ( including tooth coloured fillings ). Instead, your dentist may be able to replace these with lighter ones.
Bleaching isn't typically recommended for children whose teeth are still developing or for pregnant or breastfeeding ladies.
Deciding on treatment
There is no evidence to suggest that Tooth White bleaching is damaging to the gums, but it is not clear what the long term effect on the nerves and blood vessels within the teeth are.
All dental treatment carries a risk of side effects, which are the unwanted, but usually non permanent aftermath of a successful treatment. Side effects include non-permanent sensitivity of the teeth to cold and hot, a sore throat, tender gums and white patches on the gums. These side-effects should vanish after a few days. Contact your dentist if the symptoms endure.
