About teeth whitening knowledge

Who should NOT undergo teeth whitening?

Any of the following: - Pregnant or lactating women - People with poor enamel or decalcification caused by excessive use of fluorides. - People with periodontal disease including gingivitis or gums in poor condition - People who wear braces or who had their braces removed less than 6 months ago - People who recently had oral surgery - People with decaying teeth or exposed roots - People with open cavities - People with a history of allergic reactions to peroxide products - People with silver fillings in, near or behind the front teeth - People under the age of 14 People with such conditions are rare so it can be assumed that over 90% of people can undergo and benefit from teeth whitening.

Can all teeth be whitened?

When the inner structure of the tooth becomes darker or yellowed, the stain is more difficult to remove or, depending on its cause, may not be able to be removed at all. For example, tetracycline (an antibiotic) causes intrinsic (meaning that it affects the inner structure of the tooth) staining, when used by children under age 8 or women in the last half of their pregnancy. These stains cannot be removed by bleaching.

Fluorosis, a cosmetic dental condition that results from overexposure to fluoride during tooth development, also is not always successfully removed by bleaching. Mild to moderate fluorosis, characterized by lines, streaks or spots, can be made less obvious by using whitening products or methods. However, in more severe cases of fluorosis, bleaching will not work.

A third type of stain is called "age-related." It's a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. As we age, the dentin (the inner portion of the tooth) gets slightly yellow. This can become visible through the outer enamel as it gradually becomes thinner over time.

Yellow stains are the easiest to remove with bleaching. Gray or black stains tend to be more difficult. Generally, stains that have just formed are easier to remove than stains that have been on your teeth a while. It is not possible to turn teeth whiter than their original natural white. In some cases, even normal teeth will achieve only minor whitening improvement no matter what product you use because they just don鈥檛 react to the peroxide gel.

Artificial dental work such as crowns, bonding, caps, veneers, bridges or composite fillings will also NOT respond to bleaching. Teeth Whitening gel will only whiten natural teeth. Artificial teeth will not be whitened, they will not be damaged by the peroxide. Customers with artificial teeth wishing to whiten their natural teeth can use our products. In general, results will vary from customer to customer depending on the types of stains present, the peroxide dose and also the amount and length of the teeth whitening sessions. Remember that double and triple sessions will always give better results than a single session.

Does teeth whitening cause sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is extremely rare after a single or double treatment using our gels. Mild tissue (gum) irritation (that tingling or stinging sensation that we mention in the Guide) may occur during the whitening process, but usually only occurs during the procedure and subsides completely shortly after finishing the treatment. Blanching (whitening of the gums) occurs occasionally, but the gums return to their normal color usually within 15 minutes.

How often can a person whiten his/her teeth?

We recommend that you offer your customers a double or triple treatment the first time they get their teeth whitened. After that, we recommend that they get a touch-up pen to prolong the effects of the whitening treatment.

How long do results last?

In theory results can last up to 2 years, but in practice they last less. Depending on a person鈥檚 consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, colas and other darkening agents such as tobacco, most people could probably use another whitening session 6 months later. It also depends on the quality of enamel. If someone has non-porous enamel, results will last longer. Those who have porous enamel will be more vulnerable to staining beverages and food. These 2 factors will determine how long results will last. Generally one can say between 6 months (if the customer has porous enamel, drinks staining beverages and/or smokes) and 2 years (if the customer has non-porous enamel and habits that do not include staining beverages and/or smoking). What is the difference between the hydrogen and carbamide peroxide gel? Which is the better choice?

There is a 3 to 1 relationship between carbamide and hydrogen. This means that 16% hydrogen peroxide is equivalent (in theory) to around 44% carbamide peroxide. Some people prefer carbamide because it is softer on the gums. However, in practice we have found that hydrogen peroxide works much faster than carbamide.

How do I store the teeth whitening kits?

Dental whitening gel should be kept refrigerated. Do NOT freeze the gel. The shelf-life is 6-9 months if kept in refrigeration. If kept at room temperature the gel will lose potency and will eventually break down. However, be aware that the gel should NOT be cold during the treatment so always remember to take the gel out of the fridge at least 1 hour before the application. If the gel is cold, it will affect the results negatively.


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