Dental Glossary

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Professional cleanings usually are very effective in removing extrinsic or superficial stains on the surface of the teeth. However, if this is does not provide an optimal cosmetic change or is ineffective, the only options are to either bleach the teeth or cover the external surfaces with veneers.

Bleaching is the most common method dentists use to restore teeth that have a yellow or grey colour. A number of techniques are available currently to achieve whiter teeth using bleaching. One method requires the dentist to make models of your teeth to fabricate custom-made trays that can keep the bleaching agent in close contact with your teeth.

If these trays are worn each day for the prescribed period there is always a noticeable improvement by the end of two weeks, sometimes even within the first three days. This method places the control of the whitening in your hands and you may continue using it until you reach a satisfactory shade of whiteness. Your dentist may wish to see you periodically to check on your progress.

Another technique involves a clinical treatment using bleaching agents that are activated or accelerated using a light source. Sometimes it may be a laser, while other systems use non-laser lights.

Bleaching the teeth is a process that requires patience to achieve optimal results and it is essential to know that not every system delivers satisfactory results. As more and more bleaching agents appear in supermarkets and pharmacies, it is highly recommended that you use only products directly recommended, administered and/or monitored by your dentist.


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