The Reason for Teeth Whitening and the Science Behind It

  • By Mark Melevsky, DMD
  • 13 Mar, 2019
Teeth whitening is one of those conveniences that have become an integral part of how people improve their appearance today. It was not always so convenient or so easy to get your teeth whitening done. Today, you have the choice of going to see us and having your teeth whitening done by us in the office, or buying a solution from the local pharmacy and doing it yourself. Regardless of what method you chose, it has never been easier or as inexpensive to get your teeth whitened.

AN EFFICIENT SOLUTION

With the number of products that can discolor teeth, it is important to consider teeth whitening as a potential treatment option. Regular beverages such as coffee, tea, soda and wine, all stain teeth. Even with proper oral hygiene and brushing, people still experience teeth staining.

Fortunately, teeth whitening is an easy and efficient process with professional supervision. People who attempt to whiten teeth without professional supervision or services can actually cause more damage to their teeth and increase the chance for other health risks.

Did you know that teeth whitening is actually a chemical process? Most people who whiten their teeth have no idea how the process happens or that the peroxide solution used is designed to make the smallest of changes in your enamel’s natural organic chemical makeup. It is important for you to be aware that when you are whitening your teeth you are not just dyeing the outside of the tooth with a whiter paint, rather you are actually causing the tooth itself, from the inside out, to look whiter with a chemical process known as oxidization.

A CHEMICAL PROCESS

The peroxide is quickly absorbed into the tooth enamel, where it works to release free radicals that make the tooth more colorless, and hence they appear to be whiter. Our solution is stronger and more effective than what you can purchase from the store so the results that you see will be far more dramatic.

The reason we point this out is that there are many over the counter whitening solutions available, and we would recommend two things if you are going to use one of them. First, we would advise that you consult with us before starting the process regardless of how you are going to be whitening your teeth. Very often, there are minor challenges with your teeth, like a small cavity, for example, that can be exasperated or irritated by the peroxide in the teeth whitening solution.

We can prevent you from feeling discomfort with a simple checkup, and by correcting these issues before they become a problem. Secondly, we recommend that you always follow professional advice as to how frequently you should whiten your teeth. Overly frequent use of teeth whitening products can lead to sensitivity, among other problems.

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