For many years discolouration of the teeth was regarded as inevitable and there was no simple treatment. One accepted it and lived with it. In severe cases, tetracycline (the stuff fillings are made of) or metal ceramic dental restoration techniques (capping) were tried. These were intrusive methods which potentially traumatised otherwise healthy teeth. The development of teeth whitening or teeth bleaching has been a great step forward. Many people now use the treatment just to get an extra-special clean white look. A word of warning: the technique only works with teeth which are otherwise healthy.

Let us take a look at the causes of discolouration.

• Drinking water which contains excess fluoride can eventually cause Fluorosis - a browning of the teeth. In mild and moderate cases whitening can work, but severe cases can only be masked by methods like facing or veneering.
• A diseased or damaged tooth root can also cause the tooth to become brown. These cases need root canal treatment together with internal tooth bleaching.
  
• Genetic conditions such as Amelogenesis Imperfecta, Sickle Cell anemia and Thalassemis result in discolouration which can only be rectified by crowns.
  
• If you smoke or drink a lot of strong tea or coffee, these will stain the teeth. Whilst it may be easier said than done, refraining from these habits and brushing regularly will solve the problem.
  
• Aging. The elderly tend to have dull teeth because their enamel has worn thin allowing the yellow Dentin (the core component of teeth) to show through. Bleaching can reduce this. It would be wise to have your dentist check for any tooth damage or gum problems first.
  
  

Most people are happy with the appearance of their teeth which results from good dental hygiene but if you are keen to have that brilliant smile there are several possibilities.

In-Office bleaching
This procedure (also known as chair-side bleaching) has to be performed in a Dental Surgery and may involve one or more visits of up to an hour each. During the treatment the dentist will first apply either a protective resin or a rubber shield over the gums to protect the soft tissue. A bleaching agent of 35-38 % hydrogen peroxide is applied to the teeth, and a special light is then used to speed up the chemical process.

At-home procedures
There is a great variety of products available for use at home. They can either be dispensed by your dentist or purchased over-the-counter. They contain peroxide(s), which actually bleach the tooth enamel. They typically rely on Carbamide Peroxide as the bleaching agent. This chemical comes in several different concentrations (10%, 15%, 20%, 25% and 35%). Peroxide-containing whiteners are commonly sold in a gel form and are used with a mouthguard. Usage regimens vary. Some products need to be applied twice a day for two weeks, and others are intended for overnight use over a period of one or two weeks. If you obtain the bleaching solution from your dentist, he or she can make a customised mouthguard that will fit your teeth precisely. This is preferable to the ‘one size fits all’ retail product.

You should also speak with your dentist if any bothersome side effects occur. For example, teeth can become sensitive during treatment. In many cases, this sensitivity is just temporary and should lessen once the treatment is finished. Some people also experience soft tissue irritation – either from a guard that doesn’t fit properly or because the solution has come into contact with the tissues in some other way. You may ask, “How white is white?”. This will vary from individual to individual and also according to the type of whitening system used. Some people respond very well to treatment with dramatic whitening results whereas others may notice very little difference at all. Your dentist will be able to advise you on the likely outcome.

Lucky people experience no tooth pain as a result of treatment. However, the majority of people will experience some kind of sensitivity either during and/or after the initial treatment. This is usually described by patients as sporadic sharp shooting pains. The discomfort should settle down after approximately 6-24 hours. Your dentist may give you a special gel or mousse to apply to your teeth to help with the problem. It is advisable to avoid any hot or cold food or drinks for 48 hours after your whitening treatment.

Information provided by Phuket International Dental Center
Tel: 0 7624 9386-7 Email: info@dentist-phuket.com

The information above is reproduced in good faith. However, Image Asia Events Co., Ltd accepts no liablility for the accuracy of information or recommendations contained herein. You are recommended to consult a qualified dental/medical practicioner before undertaking any treatment.