One of the most common cosmetic procedures in recent years is tooth whitening. With a number of different systems on the market, lets discuss the differences and which one is right for you.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Tooth whitening products use a peroxide gel that penetrates into the enamel and dentine (outer and middle layers of the tooth). Peroxide is a reactive chemical that will look to react with the organic molecules in the enamel. These form simpler molecules in the enamel, and these reflect less light which results in a whiter appearance.
HOW IS IT DONE?
Tooth whitening can be done either in the dental surgery or at home with custom made trays.
In office whitening is where your dentist will apply the gel for the patient and apply a U.V light to activate the gel further. This method of whitening is faster, more convenient and less error prone as the dentist is in control. However this method is also known to be more likely to cause sensitivity.
Take home kits require the patient to apply the gel themselves at home, using custom made trays that are worn anywhere from 30mins to overnight. The difference in time is dependant on what concentration gel is being used, with low concentration gels requiring more time. This method is known and has been shown in studies to provide a greater amount of gel penetration into the tooth, resulting in a whiter end result that is more stable. It is also less prone to sensitivity for the patient. This method does however require continual use from the patient (non compliance will compromise the final result), will take longer (2 weeks in general), and can cause gum irritation if not used correctly.
WHICH ONE IS FOR YOU?
We recommend that if there are no time constraints that a take home kit is the ideal method to whiten your teeth. The combination of less sensitivity and a more stable result is ideal for this type of treatment. However if the patient requires the whitening for a certain event such as a birthday or wedding, then in office treatment is our suggestion, with a take home kit to use afterwards to further enhance the result. Tooth whitening, whilst having minimal long term side effects if done correctly, should always be done under the guidance of your dentist. When applied to teeth with cavities or in the presence of gum disease, it can cause severe irritation and more serious complications.
If you are interested in tooth whitening please give our friendly team a call on (02) 9623 1756.