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TOOTH
WHITENING
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Tooth
whitening can provide a whiter and brighter smile.
The Problem:
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Stained
or discolored teeth
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The
Solution:
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Under
the doctor's supervision, you can whiten your teeth in a matter of days
with a safe and effective process. Through the use of a custom-made
delivery system and the latest materials in tooth-whitening technology,
you can have whiter and brighter teeth.
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TOOTH
WHITENING QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
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What
is tooth whitening?
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It's
actually a bleaching process that lightens discoloration of enamel and
dentin. The system uses a mild solution retained in a custom-fitted
appliance that is worn over your teeth.
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What
causes tooth discoloration?
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There
are many causes. The most common include aging, consumption of staining
substances (coffee, tea, colas, tobacco), trauma, tetracycline
(antibiotic) staining, excessive fluoride, nerved degeneration, and old
restorations.
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Who
may benefit from tooth whitening?
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Almost
everyone. However, there are some cases where the treatment may not be
effective. One of our doctors will determine if you are a viable candidate
for the process through a thorough oral examination and diagnosis. The
tooth-lightening system is ideal for patients who have healthy, unrestored
teeth and would like to have a whiter, brighter smile. The whitening
process is most effective on mildly discolored teeth. Darker stains, such
as those caused by antibiotics, take longer to respond to treatment. The
degree of whiteness will vary from patient to patient, depending on the
structure of the teeth and the duration of time that the system is used.
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Is
the process safe?
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Research
indicated that whitening the teeth with carbamide peroxide under the
supervision of a dentist is safe for teeth and gums. The solution that is
employed has been safely used for many years in the treatment of gums and
other oral soft tissue.
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How
does it work?
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The
"bleaching" gel is placed in a thin bleaching tray that fits
over your teeth. As the active ingredient in the gel, carbamide peroxide,
is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin and bleaches the
colored substances. The structure of the tooth is not changed: only the
tooth color is made lighter.
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How
long does it take?
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Results
are usually seen after the first time the bleaching trays are used. Maximum results generally occur when
the process is continued for 10 to 14 nights.
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Are
there any side effects?
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Some
people experience increased tooth sensitivity to cold during the
treatment. Others have reported temporary discomfort, such as gum or tooth
sensitivity. These symptoms always disappear within t 1-3 days after
interruption or completion of the treatment.
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How
long do the results last?
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The
teeth will always be lighter than they were. However, some patients may
need periodic re-bleaching for one or two nights every four to six to
twelve months.
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