Chances are you picked this link because you’re interested in having your teeth cosmetically lightened. You’re not alone. In fact, it seems only natural that most dental patients today are interested in having the brightest smile possible. At one time, crowns (caps) were the only alternative to restoring badly discolored or decayed teeth. More recently, porcelain veneers and composite bonding have become available as an attractive alternative for patients, because veneers require removal of little, if any, tooth structure.

Now there’s even another alternative available to make natural teeth look whiter: bleaching. This process reverses the discoloration of tooth enamel to create a whiter, more aesthetic appearance. The advantages of this procedure are that no natural tooth structure is lost, and no anesthetic is required.

Bleaching is done in a series of appointments until the desired effect is achieved. While at one time only non-vital (root canal treated) teeth were bleaching candidates, the technology is now available to bleach vital teeth as well.

During the procedure, a solution of hydrogen peroxide is carefully applied to the specific teeth. The teeth are then exposed to a special light (at a fairly close range) to accelerate the bleaching process.

Not necessarily. Bleaching, as mentioned previously, is only one alternative to restoring discolored teeth. Determining whether or not you are a candidate for dental bleaching is largely based upon diagnosing the exact cause of tooth discoloration. A number of factors contribute to discoloration, including:

• Tetracycline (antibiotic) staining
• Excessive fluoride
• Trauma (injury) to the teeth
• Pulp (nerve) degeneration
• Restorative materials (silver, gold)
• Genetic and acquired illnesses
• Aging
• Consumption of staining substances, such as coffee, tea or tobacco products

Another consideration in determining if bleaching is for you is the strength and condition of the teeth. Careful clinical examination and X-rays will help determine if bleaching is indicated for your teeth.

For bleaching to be most effective, a number of steps are involved to ensure the most aesthetic results.

1. Lubricant is applied to the gums
2. A protective material (rubber dam) is placed around the necks of the teeth to protect your gums, tongue and lips
3. The teeth are thoroughly cleaned to remove excess lubricant
4. Conditioner is applied; then the teeth are rinsed and dried.
5. The teeth to be bleached are covered with cotton gauze.
6. The bleaching solution is applied to the gauze covered teeth and the bleaching light is positioned. (You may be given a special pair of glare-reducing eye glasses to wear during the bleaching procedure.)
7. When the bleaching process is completed, the gauze and rubber dam material are removed.
8. The teeth are given a final polish.

Yes. Bleaching is somewhat reversible. In order to attain the desired degree of whiteness, the procedure may have to be performed a number of times (normally 3-5 visits). You may also require a simple "touch-up" visit once a year to maintain your bright new smile.

Following the bleaching procedure, your teeth may have a slightly "chalky" appearance. This is due to dehydration from the hydrogen peroxide, and will gradually disappear. Occasionally patients de experience some sensitivity to cold food and beverages for a day or two following the procedure. Thus, we recommend you avoid enamel staining substances such as coffee, tea and tobacco products for several days following your bleaching appointment.

Copyright © 1988 Semantodontics, Inc.

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