LED Teeth Whitening
Causes Of Yellow Teeth and How To Whiten Them
The modern era of teeth whitening began in the 80s. Since then, the entire process has gotten considerably less expensive and safer as well. Most whitening techniques consist of applying hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide or LED, to whiten the surface of your teeth.
Chemical teeth whitening treatments work on a concentration and time basis. Meaning, the denser the concentration of chemicals, the less time it will take to whiten your teeth. In the last few years, whitening techniques have grown in popularity.
In addition to that, as our understanding on how to whiten teeth progresses, the procedures that are available have become more convenient and varied. In this article, we will go over some frequently asked questions surrounding teeth whitening procedures.
Why Do Teeth Become Yellow?
The U.S. National Library of Medicine proclaims that teeth which is not white, or yellowish-white, more than lively have an abnormal tooth color that needs to be addressed. Most of the causes of discolored teeth can be placed into two categories. Intrinsic and extrinsic stains. In addition to that, yellowing may also be a warning sign of underlying health factors, medication, and incorrect brushing techniques.
Intrinsic Stains
The inner structure of the tooth is called dentin. Intrinsic stains that occur within the dentin, is significantly more difficult to remove, in comparison to extrinsic stains. Several types of medication can cause stains to develop within this structure.
For instance, if children take doxycycline or tetracycline - antibiotic medications - eventually their teeth will turn brownish-yellow. Adult women who take this type of antibiotic during pregnancy or while breastfeeding can cause discoloration in the affected baby's teeth as well.
Extrinsic Stains
Extrinsic or exterior stains occur on the surface of your tooth, specifically the enamel. The enamel is best defined as being the outmost structure of the teeth. Even though it is particularly easy for the enamel to become stained, it's also significantly easier to remove extrinsic stains that it is to remove intrinsic stains.
Extrinsic stains are the most common type of yellowing that most people experience. And, lifestyle choice is the number one cause of extrinsic stains. Lifestyle choices such as drinking teas and coffee, smoking, and chewing tobacco are categorized as being the worst culprits.
A good general rule of thumb to remember is that anything that has the ability to stain your clothes can cause extrinsic stains on your teeth. So pay close attention to dark-colored beverages and food such as balsamic vinegar, red wine, colas, chocolate, and dark sauces like soy sauce.
Mouth Wash
Ironically enough, a prescription-strength mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine, can cause discolored teeth as well. In addition to this, acne creams that have minocycline can also stain the dentin. Surprisingly, the list of medications that may discolor your teeth aren't just limited to those alone.
Commonly used drugs such as blood pressure medications, anti-psychotics and antihistamines can cause yellow teeth.
Fluoride
We have all heard the saying that fluoride helps to fight tooth cavity and it does. Unfortunately, too much can cause fluorosis and can actually cause brown spots and white streaks on the teeth. Most people who get fluorosis drink tap water which has an abundance of fluoride.
How Do You Whiten Teeth?
Whitening procedures are an ideal solution for people who have no fillings and unrestored gum and teeth. Individuals who have different shades of yellowing stand to benefit the most from whitening procedures, while individuals who have brownish spots may not get the same results.
Let's take a look at several whitening procedures.
Whitening Toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste can assist you when it comes to removing extrinsic stains. Some whitening toothpastes have chemical agents such as peroxide and hydrogen, which helps to whiten the color deep in the tooth. However, whitening toothpastes only have the ability to lighten the color by 1 shade, in comparison to prescription grade whitening gels which can make your teeth 8 shades whiter.
Whitening Gel and Strip
The whitening gel is peroxide based and applied to the teeth via toothbrush. The results you get from this procedure is dependent on the strength of the peroxide solution within it. On the other hand, whitening strips consist of strips that have been coated with a whitening solution like peroxide.
By using whitening gels and strips, one can see results in as little as a few weeks and the results last for as long as 4 months.
Whitening Rinses
One of the more modern approaches to lightening the color of your teeth are whitening rinses. Just like standard mouthwashes they can reduce plaque, gum disease, and freshen your breath. But whitening rinses have additional ingredients such as hydrogen, which lighten the color of your teeth.
However, this technique provides the slowest results and can take as long as 12 weeks to whiten your teeth. However, many experts proclaim that a major benefit with this technique is that you only have to use the mouthwash for 2 minutes a day, as opposed to 30 mins per day as far as strips go.
Tray-Based Whiteners
Tray-based whiteners can be purchased via an online whitening kit, or from the dentist. The process consists of using a mouth guard-like material that contains a peroxide agent. Most companies dictate that the tray should be worn for 3-4 hours per day for an entire month for optimum results.
But, you may need to wear it longer if your tooth discoloration is severe.
LED Teeth Whitening In-Office Procedures
Professional LED teeth whitening dental procedures provide the fastest results. In a dental setting, the dentist uses prescription-grade bleaching chemicals that are applied directly to your teeth. To ensure optimum results, this is used with a special LED or laser.
As a result of these two punch technique, results can be seen in as little as 30 minutes. This procedure is the most expensive option but it is also the fastest and most effective solution.
How Long Do Whitening Effects Last?
It's important to note that regardless if you use toothpaste or professional whitening services from a dentist, your teeth will not remain white permanently. In fact, if you consume some of the medications and/or foods and beverages that were mentioned, your teeth's whiteness may begin to fade in as little as a month. The good news is that, by avoiding an abundance of stain-causing foods and beverages, you may be able to go for an entire year, before you require a touch-up.
But, it's also important to note that the degree of whiteness you get, will be dependent on the procedure you partake in, with toothpaste being the least effective and whitening kits and dental services being the most effective.
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