Glendora Cosmetic Dentist Explains Safety and Effectiveness of Teeth Whitening
Americans love a bright white smile so much that tooth whitening has become the most popular aesthetic dental treatment. Community Blog Online talked to Glendora cosmetic dentist, Dr. Viviane Haber to find out just how effective and safe tooth whitening really is.
Community Blog Online: What is the cause of teeth discoloration?
Glendora cosmetic dentist, Dr. Viviane Haber: Teeth can become discolored by stains on the surface or by changes in the tooth material.
Community Blog Online: What foods and beverages stain teeth the most?
Glendora cosmetic dentist, Dr. Viviane Haber: Intensely colored foods and beverages tend to be the biggest offenders. Red wine, colas, tea, coffee, but also berries can cause stains.
Community Blog Online: What is the procedure for a tooth whitening treatment?
Glendora cosmetic dentist, Dr. Viviane Haber: Before a treatment, most dentists clean the teeth and check the patient’s gums. The dentist puts a protective barrier on the gums before he or she applies whitening paste on the teeth for several minutes, rinses it off, and usually reapplies it several times.
Community Blog Online: How many shades whiter can I expect the teeth to get?
Glendora cosmetic dentist, Dr. Viviane Haber: The procedure can achieve about four to six shades of whitening after only one 40-minute treatment.
Community Blog Online: How long do the teeth whitening effects last?
Glendora cosmetic dentist, Dr. Viviane Haber: Whiteness can start to fade in as little as one month if teeth become exposed to foods and drinks that cause staining. Those who avoid them may be able to wait one year or longer before whitening treatment is needed.
Community Blog Online: Do teeth whiteners damage tooth enamel?
Glendora cosmetic dentist, Dr. Viviane Haber: Studies show little to no effect on the hardness or mineral content of a tooth’s enamel surface.
Community Blog Online: Are there any other common side effects?
Glendora cosmetic dentist, Dr. Viviane Haber: Teeth whitening may cause tooth sensitivity and gum irritation, which goes away within a day or two after the treatment.
Community Blog Online: Can anyone get their teeth whitened?
Glendora cosmetic dentist, Dr. Viviane Haber: Most people are candidates for tooth whitening, but it’s a good idea to check with your dentist before any treatment.
Community Blog Online: How much does tooth whitening cost?
Glendora cosmetic dentist, Dr. Viviane Haber: Prices vary for tooth whitening.
Community Blog Online: Does insurance cover the cost?
Glendora cosmetic dentist, Dr. Viviane Haber: No. Dental insurance does not cover the cost.
Community Blog Online: Do whitening toothpastes work?
Glendora cosmetic dentist, Dr. Viviane Haber: Whitening toothpastes may be abrasive and only clean surface stains. There may be some visible results but the teeth aren’t actually whitened.