Tooth bleaching

Teeth come in many colours. Some have a yellowish tone, some orange, some brown and some are of teeth’s enamel colour. The colour that a person sees is through the tooth structure known as dentin.

Tooth bleaching is done with a peroxide-type chemical. This chemical is applied in different ways and it goes through the enamel into the dentin.

Over the years, person may have experienced a natural build up of stains on the teeth from smoking, antibiotics, food, deposits of calculus and tarter, certain minerals, olds filings, tooth trauma, etc.

While perform Tooth bleaching, there is actually no bleach involved. A clear flavoured gel base bleaching carbamide peroxide is applied in the bleach tray that is worn over the teeth for several hours overnight. This system works well for moderate staining or discolouration.

Precautions to be followed while bleaching at home: The gel may be of low viscosity therapy allowing the gel to leak onto the gums and cause irritation. Gel may be swallowed due to poor fitting one size fits all bleaching trays. There is lack of dental supervision.

The can vary in quality of materials. If a person have an abscessed tooth, then the tooth may get traumatized due to the use of a bleaching gel. The tray used during this procedure may be felt bulky in the mouth which can lead to discomfort.

Hence the bleaching kit should contain the tray of high quality materials. Tray used should be less bulky and conforms closely to the natural teeth which makes it more comfortable and safe. The custom fitted tray helps protect the gums from leaking peroxide.

Procedure of bleaching

At first visit, dentist check the teeth and gums thoroughly. Then the impression is made of the teeth with the help of custom with the help of custom made mouth tried in, adjusted and trimmed.

Whitening agent is applied to the teeth is applied to the teeth and not the gums to prevent irritation. Patient is given the kit that contains custom mouth piece and syringe delivered whitening gel. By the third visit, the dentist examines, the progress achieved in whitening.

(c) Bleaching is not adviced for Pregnant or lactating mothers.

(d) Extensive composite and Porcelain restorations does not take the bleach.

(e) Translucent teeth may appear, darker after bleaching.