Teeth whitening treatments provided by dentists are a more effective and safer approach to improving the color of teeth than over-the-counter alternatives. These custom whitening trays are made from an impression of the patient's mouth, so they fit properly.
Teeth whitening trays can also be purchased over-the-counter, but those are typically one-size-fits-all appliances. They rarely fit well, which can lead to uneven whitening or irritation.
Teeth whitening with custom mouth trays
Teeth whitening treatments usually start with the dentist taking a close look at the patient's teeth to find any existing dental issues. Whitening damaged teeth can lead to severe teeth sensitivity and pain. In some cases, it can lead to permanent damage to gum tissues and teeth.
The dentist will also evaluate the patient's teeth to determine the cause of their stains. Whitening treatments are great on stains caused by smoking, foods/beverages and aging. Other types of stains, like those caused by tooth decay and tetracycline antibiotics, rarely go away after whitening treatments. These types of stains can be covered up with restorations like dental bonding, veneers, and crowns.
Once the dentist has cleared the patient for teeth whitening treatments, the patient is asked to bite down on a mold that leaves an impression of their teeth. The impression is sent to a lab that makes mouth trays and other dental restorations. It takes about two weeks for the customized whitening trays to be ready.
The benefits of using custom whitening trays
A custom whitening tray fits well on a patient's teeth, which leads to improved whitening as their teeth are evenly immersed in the bleaching agent. The mouth tray also helps prevent the bleaching solution from getting into the person's gums during treatment. The hydrogen peroxide or hydrogen carbamide in such products can irritate gum tissues or damage them.
Custom teeth whitening trays also come with the added benefit of having a dentist explain how to properly use it. These are long-lasting appliances that can last the rest of the patient's life if they do not have major dental work done.
The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry states that custom whitening trays are the safer option when whitening teeth. They are effective at keeping the bleaching product exactly where it needs to be: on the patient's teeth.
Maintaining the results of teeth whitening treatments
Teeth are constantly bombarded by things that can stain them, which is why most people develop stains and discoloration on their teeth over time. Whitening treatments can restore teeth to their original color or make them whiter. Here are simple things that patients can do to maintain their teeth's new color:
- Practice good dental hygiene, which helps prevent new stains
- Use whitening toothpaste a couple of times per week
- Avoid foods/beverages with strong colors, like pasta sauce and red wine
- Perform maintenance whitening treatments as needed
Get your custom mouth tray
Call or visit our Escondido clinic if you need a custom mouth tray for whitening treatments. Our dentist can provide you with a complete at-home whitening kit.
Request an appointment here: https://www.escondidofamilydentistry.com or call Escondido Family Dental Care & Specialty Center at (760) 747-7223 for an appointment in our Escondido office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Escondido, CA.
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I am a dental professional with extensive experience and expertise in dental treatments and oral health. I have been actively involved in the dental field for many years, and my knowledge is backed by practical experience, continuous education, and a passion for helping people achieve and maintain healthy, beautiful smiles.
Understanding Teeth Whitening Treatments
Teeth whitening treatments provided by dentists
Teeth whitening treatments provided by dentists involve custom whitening trays that are made from an impression of the patient's mouth to ensure proper fit. These custom trays are more effective and safer than over-the-counter alternatives.
Over-the-counter teeth whitening trays
Over-the-counter teeth whitening trays are typically one-size-fits-all appliances, which rarely fit well, leading to uneven whitening or irritation.
Initial dental evaluation
The dentist starts the teeth whitening process by evaluating the patient's teeth for any existing dental issues and to determine the cause of stains. This evaluation is crucial to avoid potential damage to the teeth and gum tissues during the whitening process.
Customized whitening trays
Once the patient is cleared for teeth whitening treatments, a mold is taken to create customized whitening trays, which take about two weeks to be ready.
Benefits of Custom Whitening Trays
Proper fit and improved whitening
Custom whitening trays fit well on a patient's teeth, leading to improved and even whitening as the teeth are evenly immersed in the bleaching agent. They also prevent the bleaching solution from reaching the gums, reducing the risk of irritation or damage.
Guidance and longevity
Custom trays come with the added benefit of having a dentist explain how to properly use them and can last the rest of the patient's life if they do not have major dental work done.
Safety and effectiveness
The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry states that custom whitening trays are the safer and more effective option for whitening teeth, as they keep the bleaching product exactly where it needs to be: on the patient's teeth.
Maintaining Teeth Whitening Results
Good dental hygiene
Practicing good dental hygiene can help prevent new stains and maintain the results of teeth whitening treatments.
Whitening toothpaste and avoiding staining foods/beverages
Using whitening toothpaste, avoiding foods and beverages with strong colors, and performing maintenance whitening treatments as needed can help maintain the teeth's new color.
In conclusion, professional teeth whitening treatments with custom whitening trays offer numerous advantages over over-the-counter alternatives, including safety, effectiveness, and long-term results. It's important for patients to follow proper dental care and maintenance to preserve the effects of the whitening treatments.
