How do Teeth Whitening Treatments Work?

The teeth are some of the most complicated and vital components to the body. In addition to being a key part of one's appearance, they also assist humans with everything from speech to the consumption of food. This is why it is exceedingly important for patients of all ages to keep their teeth as bright and healthy as possible throughout the years in order to enjoy a beautiful smile as well as great oral health. For some though, this is much simpler said than done, and it can be all too easy to look in the mirror and notice that a smile has slowly become stained or discolored over the years. Those that are currently struggling with a dingy smile should understand how teeth do in fact become discolored and how some of the most common teeth whitening procedures work.

There are two basic types of staining that can take place on one's teeth. Much rarer is the intrinsic staining that happens below the dentin layer of the teeth. This kind of staining usually happens as a result of trauma to the mouth, diseased pulp, genetics, or even some of the prescription medications that the patient may be taking. Conventional teeth whitening treatments will not typically be able to remove this type of staining, and individuals will often require more advanced treatment options including the use of dental veneers and crowns.

Extrinsic staining, on the other hand, is much more typical and will generally respond wonderfully to professional whitening treatments. Many of these treatments involve a compound or solution that is comprised generally of carbamide, peroxide, or a mixture of these two substances. This solution is placed directly on the upper and lower teeth during any number of sessions. Over the course of time, this solution will start to release oxygen molecules that will penetrate deep into the enamel layer of the teeth.

These oxygen molecules will lift even the most difficult of stains and usually leave a patient with a smile that is as much as eight shades brighter. There are a few key advantages of having this treatment carried out by a dentist, starting with the effectiveness. Dental specialists use only the most advanced solutions that have been thoroughly tested and will minimize any risk of lingering damage to the teeth. They also have other options, such as the use of specialty lamps that will reduce the amount of time that the solution is left on the teeth and increase the amount of stains that are lifted.

Teeth whitening procedures are now more effective and affordable than ever. This is why all those with a stained or discolored smile should speak with their dentist right away to see which of these options may be available to them.

Visit PhilipShindlerDDS.com to learn more. Dr. Shindler, Westlake Village teeth whitening specialist uses various types of teeth whitening treatments to improve the smile of the patients.