Whiter, Brighter Smiles

Cosmetic procedures have become popular with people of all ages, and teeth whitening is one of the easiest, least expensive procedures people can choose to improve their appearance.

The natural color of teeth varies from person to person, and brushing alone, even with whitening toothpaste, can’t change the tint. Many people will turn to at-home whitening products or opt for procedures in the dentist’s office.

The main ingredient in teeth whitening products is carbamide peroxide, an oxidizing agent that acts like bleach. The main difference between at-home whitening procedures and dental-office procedures is the effective concentration of hydrogen peroxide: as low as 2 percent at home versus 20-30 percent or higher in the dental office.

A dentist may also use light, heat, or a laser, which drives the chemical reaction that breaks down surface stains and allows the bleach to absorb into the teeth faster.

Robert Kovarik, division chief of Public Health Dentistry at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry, says that over the past 30 years about 40 million people in the U.S. have whitened their teeth. There are few safety concerns associated with teeth whitening, he says. Up to half of people who bleach, however, may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum inflammation.

“Patients can lighten their teeth two to three shades lighter in just two weeks of home bleaching,” Kovarik says. “Many of these patients will never need to bleach again, while some may ‘re-bleach’ after two to five years.”

TOOTH TIPS

• Brush well at least two minutes twice a day to remove plaque and surface stains.

• Flossing daily is very effective in removing stains between teeth.

• Use at-home bleaching products as directed.

• Avoid dark pigmented foods two to three hours after bleaching, when teeth are more porous and will re-stain more quickly.

• Avoid dark pigmented liquids like coffee, tea, and colas. These stains go beyond the surface into the core of the tooth.

• Avoid tobacco products.