According to a survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), more than 92 percent of American adults agree that an attractive smile is an important social resource. The survey also states that 88 percent of people tend to remember someone with an attractive smile, while 85 percent agree that an unattractive smile is not eye-catching to the opposite sex. It also says that 74 percent of people agree that an unappealing smile can decrease the chances of professional success, and just half of Americans are satisfied with their smile. If you are interested in learning more about Teeth Whitening in St. Louis, continue reading.
Whitening can be performed to a set of committed teeth either aesthetically or a single tooth that may have darkened after a root canal or dental trauma. Thus, this procedure can be: Internal (meaning non-vital teeth only) or External.
- Internal bleaching
- . This type of Teeth Whitening at Forest Park Dental is most likely used on patients that have had extensive procedures, like root canals. Internal whitening can, in turn, be complemented with external bleaching techniques.
- External bleaching
- . Current techniques rely on the use of two products: Carbamide peroxide (generally for outpatient treatment) and hydrogen peroxide (basically for clinical treatments). These products are capable, through activation of heat and/or light, of releasing H²O² molecules. These “leak” through teeth enamel via the dentinal tubules. There are approximately 15,000 dentin/mm² tubules. Thus, internal tissue (dentin) that gives color to the teeth, undergoes an oxidation process. This results in bleaching of the dental tissues from the inside of the tooth.
The intensity of bleaching depends on each patient, and their particular desired expectations. Most patients respond well to Teeth Whitening in St. Louis, except those with tetracycline stains (brown or gray colors). In this case, dentists may have to perform multiple sessions. Home bleaching is recommended for a longer period of up to three or six months.
Gradual whitening, although very important, still leaves dentists with a difficult prediction on the final color. You can try your luck with in-home bleaching, or you can go the safest route and visit your local dentist. If you have any questions or concerns about dental whitening, contact Forest Park Dental today.
