A bright white smile can light up a room and leave a lasting impression. To achieve this look, you can turn to your dentist for treatment. Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure that many people turn to in order to brighten their smiles. However, one common concern for those seeking teeth whitening is how well it works on set-in stains.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work
Teeth whitening works by using bleaching agents to lighten the color of the teeth. The most common bleaching agent used in whitening treatments is hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These chemicals penetrate the enamel (the outer layer of the tooth). Then, it breaks down the molecules that cause stains. As a result, the teeth appear whiter and brighter.
Types of Teeth Whitening
There are two main types of teeth whitening methods:
In-Office Whitening: Your dentist will perform whitening in the office. Here, they can use a higher concentration of bleaching agent. As a result, the process is often quicker, providing immediate results in just one visit.
At-Home Whitening: This involves using whitening products at home, such as whitening toothpaste, strips, gels, or trays. These products contain a lower concentration of bleaching agents. You will use these over a period of days or weeks to achieve gradual whitening.
Addressing Set-In Stains
Set-in stains, also known as intrinsic stains, occur when the discoloration is within the tooth enamel. These stains can be caused by a variety of factors, such as:
- Excessive fluoride exposure during childhood
- Certain medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics
- Trauma or injury to the tooth
- Aging, which can cause the enamel to thin and the yellowish dentin layer beneath to show through
How Whitening Works on Set-In Stains
Whitening treatments can be effective on set-in stains. However, it might take longer or require multiple sessions to achieve noticeable results. The bleaching agents in whitening products work to penetrate the enamel and break down the molecules that cause discoloration.
Since set-in stains are deeper within the enamel, it often takes more time for the bleaching agents to reach and effectively lighten these stains. This is why it might require several sessions of in-office whitening or consistent use of at-home whitening products for weeks.
Considerations for Set-In Stains
It’s important to manage your expectations when it comes to treating set-in stains with teeth whitening:
Results May Vary: The effectiveness of teeth whitening can vary from person to person. This is because it depends on how severe the staining is. Additionally, the type of whitening treatment you use can affect your results.
Patience is Key: Getting good results with set-in stains might take time. You need to be consistent when using whitening products to get the best outcomes.
Talk to your Dentist: If you have stubborn set-in stains, it’s a good idea to consult with a dentist. They can assess the stains and tell you the best treatment.
In some cases, a combination of in-office and at-home whitening treatments might be recommended for the best results.