ASK THE EXPERT
if you look in the mirror, do you like what you see? Do you sometimes desire for that sparkling white set of teeth that famous celebrities seem to be born with? If your answer to these two questions is a NO and YES, then you may wish to consider a teeth whitening procedure.
Whitening of the teeth is performed for patients who desire a brighter smile. Tooth whitening can be performed to reduce discoloration and staining, or simply to provide the patient with whiter, brighter teeth.
How white your teeth can become from bleaching and whitening is a common question with a very subjective answer. Some whitening procedures claim they can whiten your teeth by up to nine shades, but that is highly unlikely. Just a change of two or three shades will make a significant difference in just about anyone’s smile.
Not all of your teeth are the same natural color. Usually your eye teeth tend to be darker than the others, your front teeth are typically the whitest, and molars tend to be a shade between the two. The goal for everyone is to achieve their individual optimum whiteness while still looking natural. During your first consultation for tooth whitening, your dentist will go over what you personally can expect for your specific smile. How white teeth will become from a given procedure will vary from person to person. The structure of your teeth and the type of procedure implemented will affect the outcome.
There are a few teeth whitening procedures available that correct discoloration of the teeth by removing the brown and yellow staining. While each work effectively, there are advantages and disadvantages to each procedure dependent upon your objectives and commitment to the process. The type of procedures available should be discussed with your cosmetic dentist, and they will recommend the most appropriate teeth whitening procedure for you. The term "teeth whitening" can refer to a number of techniques to improve the brightness of the patient’s teeth. Among them are chemical whitening, mild acid whitening, abrasive teeth brightening and the newest technique, laser teeth whitening. Let me discuss the latter procedure in more detail.
Using a laser with a whitening gel, laser teeth whitening is an in-office bleaching system. The translucent bleaching gel is applied to the teeth and a laser light is used to activate the crystals to absorb the energy from the light and penetrate the teeth enamel to increase the lightening effect on the teeth. The length of time in the cosmetic dentist’s chair depends on the degree of discoloration you have. The advantage of this procedure lies in the fact that one visit is usually all it takes for a perfectly bright smile. Of course, it has its setbacks. One is the sudden change of color which is likely to be noticed by those around you immediately. Moreover, this is the more expensive of the procedures available – but it is also the quickest.
Teeth can be whitened by a dentist, but you can use a do-it-yourself whitening kit at home, either under the supervision of your dentist or on your own. Results can never be guaranteed, and the best effects are found on teeth which have yellowed with age. If you are planning to whiten your teeth by yourself, it’s advisable to consult a dentist first, to make sure there are no potential problems. Many dentists offer tooth whitening, but you may prefer to find a cosmetic dentist who specializes in this treatment.
In the final analysis, "to white" or "not to white" depends on you. People typically have their teeth whitened to improve their appearance. Whiter teeth are associated with beauty and a healthier lifestyle. When people have a brighter smile, they tend to smile more often and are less self-conscious. In addition, a whiter smile tends to minimize the appearance of facial wrinkles, giving way to a more youthful and energetic appearance. Needless to say, a whiter smile gives people to whom you are speaking a place to focus on and gives you a friendlier appearance.
Dr. Steve Mark Gan, DMD, is one of the country’s leading experts in oral care. A passion for learning and people has led Dr. Gan to establish GAOC. Educated in the United States, Dr. Gan has had extensive training and experience in the fields of dental medicine. He holds his clinic at Suite 1708-1709 Medical Plaza Makati, Amorsolo St. cor. Dela Rosa St. Makati City.
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