subject: Teeth Whitening - Smile With Confidence [print this page] When a person's teeth are discolored or stained, it can take a toll on their self-esteem. Luckily, with advances in cosmetic dentistry it is easier than ever before to whiten your smile both at home and in your dentist's office. However, it is important to take extra precautions when it comes to deciding the best whitening procedure for your smile. Talk to your dentist in Prior Lake today for more information on an appropriate whitening treatment for improving the appearance of your discolored smile.
Why are My Teeth Discolored?
Due to an array of reasons, your teeth can become discolored and stained. Discoloration can be divided into three main categories:
*Extrinsic discoloration
*Intrinsic discoloration
*Age-related discoloration
Extrinsic discoloration consists of the staining of the outer layer of the tooth while intrinsic discoloration is when the inner structure of the tooth darkens or gets a yellow tint. Smoking, coffee, wine, cola or other drinks or foods cause extrinsic stains. Intrinsic stains are caused by excessive exposure to fluoride during early childhood, the maternal use of tetracycline antibiotics during the second half of pregnancy and the use of tetracycline antibiotics in children eight years old or younger.
Age related discoloration is a combination of both extrinsic and intrinsic factors. In addition to stains caused by foods or smoking, the dentin naturally yellows over time. The enamel that covers the teeth gets thinner with age, which allows the dentin to show through. Chips or other injuries to a tooth can also cause discoloration, especially when the pulp has been damaged.
In-Office Whitening Treatment for Faster Results
Professional in-office whitening delivers optimum whitening results in a short amount of time. Available under the supervision of your dentist in Prior Lake, in-office teeth whitening is gaining popularity in cosmetic dentistry. While completing your in-office whitening treatment, your dentist will police your teeth to remove any plaque on the surface of your teeth. Your mouth will then be isolated with gauze and a barrier to keep your teeth dry during the procedure, and to protect your gums from the bleaching agent.
Teeth are then coated with a whitening solution on the front surface of your teeth. Your dentist will then use a curing light or laser to be used to add heat to the solution to activate the peroxide. It will then be left on the teeth for approximately 30 to 60 minutes, or reapplied in specific increments of time for up to one hour, depending on the brand. Once your ideal shade is achieved, your teeth will be rinsed with water and a fluoride application may be used to help ease the sensitivity some people experience with tooth whitening.
Dentist Dispensed Take-Home Whitening Trays
At-home whitening kits are a convenient way to achieve a brightened smile in privacy and on your schedule. When you choose an at-home whitening kit, your dentist will make an impression of your teeth for custom whitening trays. To ensure the best whitening results, your dentist will provide you with detailed instructions for properly dispensing the whitening gel and wearing the custom-fit trays at home. When you wear your custom whitening trays for one hour a day for 14 days, you can see up to six shades of improvement in the appearance of your teeth.
Talk to your cosmetic dentist in Prior Lake for more information on whitening treatments and to find the best one for your tooth discoloration.
by: Gen Wright
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