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Teeth Whitening FAQ – Everything You Need to Know

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Teeth Whitening FAQ – Everything You Need to Know

Teeth Whitening FAQ by Dr. Mallouk – Delano DentistAm I a good candidate for tooth whitening? Teeth whitening can be used for anyone above the age of 10 years. However, it is not recommended for patients with dental cracks, leaky fillings, or dental decay because the whitening products may irritate the tooth nerve, resulting in discomfort or a need for
By Paul Mallouk, D.D.S.

Teeth Whitening FAQ by Dr. Mallouk – Delano Dentist

Am I a good candidate for tooth whitening?

Teeth whitening can be used for anyone above the age of 10 years. However, it is not recommended for patients with dental cracks, leaky fillings, or dental decay because the whitening products may irritate the tooth nerve, resulting in discomfort or a need for endodontic treatment. In addition, patients with short teeth or a gummy smile may not necessarily look better after bleaching because whiter teeth tend to accentuate a gummy smile.

Can a single tooth be whitened?

Yes. The first step should be to determine the cause of the discoloration, as it may be an indication of dental disease that requires a different treatment. Possible options include bleaching from inside the tooth, for a dead tooth that has root canal, or a single-tooth bleaching tray for a living tooth.

Do teeth whitening damage the tooth surface?

The most commonly used whitening product is 10 percent carbamide peroxide, and studies have shown that it does not affect the mineral content or hardness of tooth enamel.

Can teeth whitening be used on teeth with dental restorations?

Many existing restorations like tooth-colored fillings, veneers, bonding, bridges, and crowns do not stain or lighten. So, these products have no effect on existing dental restorations, leave along damaging them. That said, you may need to replace pre-existing dental work to match the new tooth shade achieved in your natural teeth following whitening.

How long do the results of teeth whitening last?

Tooth whitening is not permanent, and people who expose their teeth to substances, foods, and beverages that cause staining may realize faster fading of the whiteness in as little as one month. Avoiding foods/beverages that stain may allow you to stay one year or longer before requiring touch-up whitening treatment.