Tooth whitening and tooth bleaching are both terms for the same tooth whitening treatment. It's a dental procedure used to get help patients achieve whiter brighter smiles. All of these procedures are based on the same chemistry. Enamel is made of hydroxyapetite crystals which have a beautiful white appearance. The tiny spaces between the crystals can fill up with organic matter such as blood, coffee, tea and lots of other things. This causes a dark color. There are choices in the tooth whitening methods used. Zoom 2 takes about forty five minutes but costs more than the traditional take home tooth whitening tray system.
Tooth whitening and tooth bleaching remove the organic materials in the enamel by dissolving them with a peroxide derivative. This leaves the enamel with its gorgeous white color. Dentists do not use straight peroxide because it's not stabile and only lasts a few minutes. It takes days for a gel to soak though the enamel. The peroxide is chemically modified to form a carbamate peroxide which will last longer and be more effective. Because this material is caustic, it is a good idea to consider a professional tooth whitening, especially when tooth whitening sensitivity is a possibility. How the tooth whitening gel is applied can make a significant difference in the results.
Tooth whitening and tooth bleaching is only effective if there is lots of tooth enamel. Patients who have worn away their enamel have nothing to treat. The thin enamel allows the yellow dentin to show through and that's why the smile appears yellow. In some cases there is an excessive amount of translucent enamel which looks black because it shows the black interior of the mouth. Patients with these types of problems need porcelain veneers and/or all porcelain crowns to revive their smiles. No tooth whitening system will be successful in these cases.
It is always the best thing to have a professional Tooth whitening and tooth bleaching so that any potential tooth bleaching problems can be avoided. Natural looking enamel allows light to be reflected, absorbed, and transmitted just like a diamond crystal. The whole thickness of enamel should be treated to achieve this opalescent effect. Quickie methods that claim to achieve an instant white smile may not last very long and may not allow light to fully be absorbed. 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 Cosmetic Dentist in Atlanta, Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, call 404-874-7428.