Tooth bleaching
What is tooth bleaching?
Some people’s teeth are yellower or darker than others, even when they are relatively healthy. In order to rectify this problem, Hydrogen Peroxide (bleach), can be used either on the outside or the inside of the tooth.
What does tooth bleaching involve?
This treatment involves the dentist using a special bleach gel, which is completely safe, providing that it does not touch your gums and burn them.
When bleaching the inside of a tooth, the bleach is put in the root canal temporarily, usually or after the tooth has been root-filled.
There are two bleaching techniques that a dentist can use, depending on the strength of bleach that is required.
In cases where only a weak bleach is required, the dentist may provide a weak bleach gel for you to use at home. This will be in a tray, which fits closely round your teeth to ensure that the gel does not burn your gums.
A dental technician will make this tray from an impression of your teeth that your dentist has taken. Your dentist will ensure that the tray fits and demonstrate how to put the gel in the tray at home. In order for this treatment to work effectively, you will need to use the tray for an hour or two a day, for up to six weeks.
The second bleaching technique is used when a stronger bleach is required. Your dentist will paint the bleach onto the teeth, activate it with a light for a few minutes and then wash it off with water. This method is used to ensure that the bleach does not touch your gums, due to strength of the bleach that is being used.
Your dentist will note your tooth colour using a shade guide before they treat you. You should look at the colour match yourself before the treatment, so that you can compare it with the colour after bleaching.
For a few days after the treatment, your teeth may be sensitive to hot and cold food and drink.
What are the benefits of tooth bleaching?
It improves the appearance of your teeth without removing any of the natural tooth surface. If your teeth are relatively healthy, but you want to lighten the colour, this is a better option than a crown or veneer.
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