Question:
Please give me some feedback as to which over-the-counter tooth
whitening system is best for teeth that are dull and somewhat
yellow. This yellowing is natural and not a result of smoking etc.
Answer:
None of the over the counter bleaching products are for shit. But the
ones that you can get from your dentist work amazingly well. Nite White
is the one we use at our office. We used to use Rembrandt but it has
fallen behind in popularity. Some dentists are charging 400-500 dollars
but you should really only pay about 250. Call around for prices and what
kind of system the dentist is using. This is a no-brainer for the dentist
so don't pay too much. The over the counter bleaching stuff just isn't
strong enough to work quickly. But I advise you to try a system from a
dentist because it works amazingly well.
It's not just the material that makes the difference in bleaching.
Time and method of application can have significant impact on the
quality and rapidity of lightening.
Follow your dentist's instructions explicity. You can overdo
bleaching and get irritated teeth and gums. Some over-the-counter
products have been reported to cause etching/dulling of the tooth
surface because of too acid a pH or extended application beyond
manufacturer's recs.
Tray application works well, but trays must be designed and prepared
correctly in order to avoid irritation of the gums as well as
premature leakage into the mouth.
Generally, trays are worn for an hour and the material changed.
Trays are often made with small well spaces around the fronts of teeth
to be treated to allow more material in the working area.
Once treated, bleached teeth should be topically fluoridated, and
patients should refrain from heavy staining foods and drinks for
several days until the "pores" have been closed.
I suggest the Trio Kit by American Dental Hygenics. It contains 11%,
13% and 16% carbamide peroxide all in one kit and retails to the
dental profesional for around $50 kit.
