25/09/2013
How does Tooth Whitening Work?
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Tooth whitening is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that does exactly what it sounds like: whitens teeth. But to start, a better question may be: how does teeth staining work?
The tooth is made up of several layers of different materials. There’s the very inside of the tooth, called the pulp, which is the soft connective tissue that contains all of the nerve endings and blood vessels in the tooth. Surrounding the pulp above the gum is dentin, a harder, yellow-colored material that immediately protects the pulp.
How does Tooth Whitening Work?
Finally, surrounding the dentin is the enamel, the white part of the tooth that we see. The enamel is the first line of defense for the tooth, and is made up of the hardest material in the human body. When we eat or drink–or simply exist–the enamel takes the punishment from discoloration to bacteria growth. These tiny layers of discoloring particles build up on top of the enamel, which is why brushing, flossing, and other good dental hygiene practices are so important!
Still, enamel is porous on a microscopic level, so discoloration from things like coffee and smoking can eventually ‘sink into’ the tooth, making removing these stains with a toothbrush nearly impossible.
What then? You may be a candidate for tooth whitening. Professional tooth whitening uses controlled application of different chemicals, mainly hydrogen peroxide. When applied to the teeth in the form of a gel or a paste and then rinsed off, these chemicals gently get into the pores of the enamel and safely brighten up those stains, leaving you with a shining white smile!
By choosing to whiten your teeth with a cosmetic dentist, you will see significant results after only one whitening session!
Contact us today for a consultation to see if you are a candidate for tooth whitening. Dr. KHADBADE is a skilled cosmetic dentist, and he will make sure you get the right treatment for your smile, whether that means whitening or another cosmetic dentistry option.