A dentist tooth whitening is the safest way to have tooth whitening. Before the procedure, x-rays are taken, a dental cleaning is done and a thorough examination performed. This identifies loose fillings, dental cavities or exposed roots. If not corrected, the tooth whitening gel can cause hot and cold hypersensitivity or even kill an already sick dental nerve. Fortunately, this is rare. If sensitivity develops, the procedure must be delayed while the teeth are desensitized with the same trays but using a flouride gel.
Most dentist tooth whitening systems involve using custom made tooth whitening tray with a carbamide peroxide. The accuracy of the trays is very important since they force the gel into the enamel. The fit of the trays depends on taking an excellent impression of the teeth to be whitened. There are several gel strengths and an experienced dentist will determine which is right for you. Removing all of the plaque and food debri from you gums with a cleaning before the procedure usually avoids having swollen gums and assists the tooth whitening system in working better.
Although there are several methods of dentist tooth whitening, the health care professionals at the Atlanta Dental Group PC prefer at home custom trays that patients wear when sleeping. With this method, there's lots of time for the gel to deeply penetrate and bring out the full color of the smile. Patients decide how white their smile will be. If more whitening is desired, the trays are worn for more time or a stronger gel can be used. However, many patients want instant results and prefer power whitening treatments, such as Zoom 2. Some patients combine the two methods to get the immediate white smile from Zoom 2 and then use traditional trays to keep their teeth white.
Unfortunately, no dentist tooth whitening procedure can whiten all teeth. Some discolorations don't bleach well. Crowns and many fillings that do not change color can stand out after bleaching. Large silver amalgam fillings can be seen through enamel and give a gray look to the enamel. Bonding or a tooth colored filling that doesn't change color on a front tooth may stand out. Having a knowledgeable dental health care professional supervise your treatment can plan and perform all of the necessary care to achieve a great looking beautiful smile. For a free cosmetic consultation with our Atlanta Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, call 404-874-7428.