7 Teeth Whitening Facts Dentist in Blackburn Would Want You to Know
Teeth whitening is the most common procedure in cosmetic dentistry; it instantly treats stained and discoloured teeth. However, excessive consumption of foods like coffee, tea, wine, and colas can cause staining of the teeth. Additionally, smoking, and poor dental hygiene could also contribute to tooth discolouration. This post discusses seven teeth whitening facts that dentist Blackburn would want you to know.
1. Teeth are porous
It is difficult to imagine that the most rigid bone of our body is porous. However, inside the enamel lies a thin layer of dentin which is a bone-like porous substance. The pores in the teeth tend to absorb food colours and eventually get stained from within. The dentist uses bleaching agents that widens these pores, penetrates the teeth, and removes the stains from within.
2. Tooth Sensitivity Increases After Teeth Whitening
Few patients may report a temporary increase in tooth sensitivity as the pores in the teeth to widen to expose the dentin. The dentin covers the innermost pulp, which protects the sensory nerve endings. This leads to tooth sensitivity which subsides once the impact of the bleaching agent subsides.
3. Artificial tooth Cannot Be Whitened
The bleaching agent will work only on the natural teeth. The dentist cannot whiten the artificial tooth, veneers, caps, crowns or beyond their original shade. However, the stain on the surface of the teeth can be cleaned. Fortunately, the artificial tooth is staining resistant compared to the natural tooth.
4. DIY Whitening Kits Are Not as Effective as In-Office Procedure
The teeth whitening treatment provided at the clinic is much more effective than the over-the-counter DIY dental whitening kits. Even after months of usage, the DIY kits will not produce the results that the dentist can deliver in a matter of few hours.
5. Teeth Whitening Is Not Meant for Kids
First and foremost, kids do not require dental whitening as their teeth are new and have hardly been stained. However, dentists discourage teeth whitening for kids below 15 years. It might lead to uneven teeth colour when permanent teeth appear. At a young age, it is best to focus on building appropriate oral hygiene habits.
6. Teeth Whitening Has No Side-Effects
Dental whitening is a safe procedure and has no side effects, especially in adults. The bleaching agents used for cleaning the teeth remove the stains on the teeth. The process does not itch or scrape the enamel of the teeth. Often dentists will accompany the teeth whitening procedure with a fluoride treatment to reduce post-whitening sensitivity.
7. UV Rays Are Useless When It Comes to Tooth Whitening
UV rays have been used for many years for tooth whitening. While it does brighten your teeth, and the whitening effect is temporary compared to in-office dental whitening. It is not worth the risk involved in exposing yourself to UV rays.
Conclusion
Teeth whitening is a standard cosmetic procedure to brighten your teeth. However, there are specific facts one must know before opting for the treatment. Teeth whitening is a non-invasive procedure with absolutely no side effects. Teeth whitening will give you an instant and radiant smile that will last for almost a year.
