Tooth whitening is a safe procedure that lightens the colouration of the enamel and the dentin of teeth by using whitening solution which is carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. After prolonged contact with the tooth, the solution breaks away the pigments formed with the years.
White teeth that make up a brilliant smile are a sign of beauty, health, and youth.
Teeth can be covered with plaque or tartar that change colour from the use of tobacco, coffee, tea, or red wine. By removing the tartar and polishing the teeth during a dental cleaning, these stains disappear. The stains can be lodged inside the enamel and the dentin of the teeth. This can be caused by a cavity, tobacco, certain medications taken at a young age like tetracycline, or too much consumption of fluoride.
This technique uses individualized trays which are filled with peroxide based gels. These trays are made from the impressions taken of the teeth allowing maximum contact with the teeth, and minimum contact with the gums. They should be worn for a few hours a day, or during the night, for a period of two weeks or more, depending on the degree of whitening desired. The cost varies between 300$ and 600$. This treatment is not permanent and necessitates touch-ups every six or twelve months, depending on the degree of consumption of foods that stain the teeth.