Tooth bleaching involves soaking teeth in a liquid that goes into the tooth and dissolves everything not part of the crystal. The result is that the tooth is left with it's natural white color. Teeth are made of salt crystals like table salt. Everyone's done the experiment hanging some yarn into a glass of salt water and large salt crystals form on the yarn as the water evaporates. The crystals are white. What makes teeth yellow or dark is the stuff that gets stuck inside the salt.
The first tooth bleaching step is to insure there's nothing wrong with the teeth. A comprehensive examination is done with complete x-rays prior to begining. Impressions are taken of the upper and lower teeth and plaster statues made that are the same as the patient's mouth. Very precise clear rubber covers are then made that fit to the patient's teeth well. The dentist checks the fit of each tooth bleaching tray and gives detailed instructions on how to use the trays and whitening materials.
The patient then places a small amount of the bleaching gel into the covers and wears them for approximately 4 hours per day for two days. If there are no problems the patient then wears the covers for eight hours while sleeping for one week. The primary problem that might result is tooth sensitivity to hot and cold. If this happens we desensitize the patient's teeth for two weeks using a professional strength fluoride like PerioMed. The procedure is again resumed with a four hour per day schedule.
Tooth bleaching is a safe procedure that results in a nice white smile. Many patients want to have it done but are embarrassed to ask or feel they are being vain having it done. However, white teeth really benefit everyone. A beautiful white smile pleases many people and often helps you feel more comfortable in situations and places that you might have previously been concerned. Tooth whitening is not permanent because teeth naturally stain. However, the method used at the Atlanta Dental Group PC allows you to later whiten the color of teeth again . The covers can be used again with fresh material if you have the desire to freshen up your teeth. If you are interested in tooth bleaching and would like a free cosmetic consultation with Atlanta Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, call 404-874-7428.