Teeth Whitening FAQ’S Answered

There are many causes of tooth staining.  Certain medications, tooth trauma, root fillings, and foods and beverages can cause tooth discoloration over time.  Some discolorations are superficial while others are more internal.  Both can be effectively treated by a dentist; professional whitening is the best option to safely whiten discolored teeth.

HOW DOES WHITENING WORK?

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The whitening process is possible due to the ability of whitening agent (carbamide peroxide and/or hydrogen peroxide) to freely pass through enamel and dentin and to permeate all parts of the tooth.  These peroxides break down into oxygen radicals, which migrate between the enamel prisms, breaking down any colored molecules that result in tooth discoloration.  The structure of the tooth is not altered.  The internal tooth color is simply made lighter

Whitening agents break down into tiny molecules and move in all directions so even if the entire tooth is not covered with bleach, the entire tooth is whitened.
Numerous studies have proven the effectiveness of peroxides in whitening teeth.  Enamel, dentin, existing fillings, and bonding materials are not affected by the whitening agents, nor are they harmed by the whitening materials.

HOW LONG DOES THE WHITENING LAST?

Whitening results are very stable, but depending on the patient’s nutrition and lifestyle habits, the procedure may need to be redone periodically.  Due to the safety of the whitening agents, this should not concern the dentist or patient.

WILL WHITENING CAUSE TOOTH SENSITIVITY?

Tooth sensitivity is a relatively common side effect of whitening.  If sensitivity occurs, it is transient and disappears after the completion of the whitening.  However, most whitening products contain desensitizing agents like potassium nitrate and fluoride for additional comfort.  Research has shown that just as hydrogen peroxide penetrates through the enamel and dentin into the pulp, so does potassium nitrate.  Potassium nitrate acts more like an analgesic or anesthetic by keeping the nerve of the tooth from sending pain signals to the brain.  Fluoride acts primarily as a dentin tube blocker, plugging the holes and slowing down the fluid flow that causes sensitivity.

WILL WHITENING WEAKEN THE TOOTH’S ENAMEL?

Findings presented at the American Association of Dental Research confirm that whitening will actually minimize sensitivity, provide anti-caries benefits, increase enamel microhardness, and improve overall enamel health.

WILL OVER-THE –COUNTER  WHITENING PRODUCTS WORK AS WELL AS PROFESSIONAL WHITENING?

Self-treatment with the use of over-the –counter (OTC) products often does not provide the results desired.  Professional tooth whitening treatments are safe if they are used appropriately and with the correct materials.  This includes an initial diagnosis, professional teeth cleaning, briefing on the chosen whitening process, and monitoring the patient during the treatment phase.

By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregon
http://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental

Dental Implant Cost: Comparison of a Three-Unit Bridge -vs- Single Dental Implant

Tooth implants are considered the ultimate dental restoration solution for tooth replacement, especially when only a single tooth needs to be replaced.

Traditionally, the best dental restoration for a single missing tooth was a three-tooth bridge, better known as a three-unit bridge. This type of restoration worked by linking three crowns together. The middle tooth was used to bridge the gap. Even though this type of dental restoration was considered state-of-the-art for many years, it had its limitations.


For instance, the fabrication of a three-unit bridge required the teeth on both sides of the gap to be whittled down to allow for the false teeth to be slipped over the top of the teeth. Because the three teeth were linked together, they could not be cleaned in the same way as normal teeth. In addition, they required special dental cleaning tools in order to maintain healthy gum tissue.


Today, dental implants are the first choice to replace missing teeth and dental restoration. In the case of a single missing tooth, a tooth implant can be placed by the implant dentist in the area of the missing tooth. The implant will serve as a replacement for a tooth root and an individual dental crown. The total apparatus is referred to as a single-tooth implant crown.


Once in place, the dental implant crown will look, feel and function like your natural teeth. They are cleaned and flossed just like your natural teeth, and best of all, they do not require any special tools to clean around them, like bridges. Although tooth implants will not decay, they require that you maintain impeccable oral hygiene.

Does a Dental Implant Crown Last Forever?

Even though dental scientists are developing advanced materials to create a more durable crown, the old adage "nothing lasts forever" also applies to dental implant crowns. Because each patient is different, dental implant crowns last a varied amount of time depending on the patient.
Dental crowns that were thought to last only 3 to 5 years can last 10 to 20 years if meticulously cared for. On the other hand, dental crowns that should last for ten or more years can last only two years in a mouth that is neglected.
The bottom line is that no one can tell you how long a tooth implant will last, but if you take excellent care of your mouth and see your dentist every six months, you stand a better chance of extending the life of your dental implant and other dental restorations.

How Does the Cost of a Dental Implant Crown Compare to a Three-Unit Bridge?

The cost of a three-unit bridge can range from $3,000 to $3,500. The cost of single tooth implants is approximately $3,500 to $4,000. If teeth associated with a dental bridge fail due to recurrent decay or periodontal disease, ordinarily, dental restoration must be done on the entire dental bridge and possibly add a new filling or build-up of the teeth.


The cost of any foundations under a new dental bridge will add to the dental restoration and tooth replacement cost. If and when a dental implant crown has to be reconstructed, most likely, it would be due to the wearing away of the dental crown material.


By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregon
http://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental

Replace a Missing Tooth With a Dental Implant

Patients ask me about dental implants all the time, so I thought I would take some time to explain what a dental implant is and how it is different than other traditional tooth replacement options

Compared to previous generations when tooth loss was common, modern dentistry has made it possible for people to keep their teeth healthy and attractive for their entire lives. But for people who have experienced tooth loss, there are 3 basic replacement options:

1. A bridge
2. A partial or full denture
3. A dental implant

But bridges and dentures have drawbacks.   Teeth adjacent to the missing tooth or teeth must be altered in order to place a bridge or partial denture.  Food gets caught under bridges, partials, and dentures with resulting sore gums. Or a denture can loosen and cause embarrassment.

Today, dental implants can replace missing teeth. Although the concept of a tooth implant is not new, advances in technology have improved the treatment process and the longevity of implants.

Modern day dental implants are made of pure titanium and are surgically inserted in the jawbone. The tooth implant is covered with gum tissue and allowed to heal for three to six months. During this time, the titanium meshes with the bone (osseointegration), becoming part of the jawbone itself. After the gums are healed, the implants are uncovered and permanent tooth replacements are attached to the implants.

Dental implants can be used for single tooth replacements, support for a permanent bridge, or as attachments to anchor a full denture securely to the jaw.

If you think a tooth implant could help you or someone you know chew more comfortably, speak more clearly, or look better, call our dental office for more details.

By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregon
http://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental