What is Tooth Whitening? How Do I know if it is for me? What Tooth-Whitening Options Are Available?

What Happens During In-Office Whitening? What Happens During Passive Whitening? Are Touch Ups Ever Required?

What is Tooth Whitening?



Tooth whitening is a bleaching process that reverses discolorations of enamel (the outside layer of tooth structure) to create a whiter, brighter appearance. No natural tooth structure is lost, and no anesthetic is required.

How Do I Know If Tooth Whitening Is For Me?

We're glad to help you determine if you're a good candidate. First, your safety, we need to check the strength and condition of your teeth through an exam and x-rays. Then, before recommending tooth whitening for you, we need to diagnose the exact cause of your tooth discoloration. A number of factors can contribute to discoloration, including:


Tetracycline (antibiotic) staining
Excessive flouride
Trauma (injury) to the teeth
Pulp (nerve) degeneration
Restorative materials (silver, gold)
Genetic and acquired illnesses
Aging
Use of staining substances, such as coffee, tea or tobacoo



What Tooth-Whitening Options Are Available?

Depending upon your unique situation, we may offer one of two different types of tooth-whitening systems: in-office (active) or at home use (passive) under our professional supervision. Sometimes we recommend a combination of both to give you the best results in the least amount of time. Regardless of which type of system is best for you, it's important that you follow our professional recommendations. We want to be sure you receive the best and safest treatment available.



What Happens During In-Office Tooth Whitening?

This procedure is done in a series of appointments (Usually three to five) until the desired effect is achieved. During the visits, we take a number of steps:


1. Apply lubricant to your gums
2. Place a protective material (dental dam) around the necks of your teeth to shield your gums, tongue and lips.
3. Clean your teeth to remove excess lubricant.
4. Apply conditioner to your teeth, then rinse and dry them.
5. Apply the whitening solution to the teeth, and leave it on for a period of time.
6. Rinse and polish your teeth.



What Happens During Passive Tooth Whitening?

This procedure involves wearing a custom fitted appliance containing tooth-whitening solution. You must wear this appliance for a period of days or weeks as we prescribe for your situation. In many cases, nighttime application alone is sufficient to achieve the results you desire. When undergoing the passive tooth-whitening program, you must return to the office periodically. These appointments ensure that the whitening system is working effectively and that your teeth and gums remain healthy.



Are Touch Ups Ever Required?

To stay whiter and brighter, your teeth may require periodic touch ups requiring that you war your appliance with the whitening solution for a few days to a week. Please call us to discuss your needs, and we'll be happy to advise you.

Debra Z. Ehudin, D.D.S.
Prosthodontics/General Dentistry
1852 Reisterstown Rd., Suite 200 Pikesville, MD 21208
(410) 484-2117 / (410) 254-5545
E-mail: info@ehudindental.com

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