The methods of teeth whiting or bleaching involves
applying a high concentration of an oxidising agent for a
short period of time. The produces has quick results but risks some chemical
burns to the soft tissues. Most
bleaching procedures use a light-cured protective layer that is applied to the
gums and papilla (the tips of the
gums between the teeth). The bleaching agent is a peroxide which breaks down in
the mouth to form hydrogen
peroxide. Bleaching gel typically contains up to 36% hydrogen peroxide.
Alternative methods involve using a thin mouthguard or strip to hold a low
concentration of the oxidising agent
next to the teeth for as long as several hours a day for a period of 5 to 14
days.These applications can be found
at most drug stores, and is known as take-home or over-the-counter bleaching.
This process is slower but has
fewer risks to the soft tissues.
A typical regement of bleaching can produce extreme improvements in the cosmetic
appearance of most stained
teeth; however, some stains do not respond to over the counter bleaching agents.
teeth.
Recently, technologies have advanced in the acceleration of the bleaching
process by the use of light. Studies have shown varying results as to the
efficacy of light-activated bleaching.
One of these in-office
technologies is called Zoom 2 which uses a special gel applied to the teeth and
an optical light guidance system, helping the procedure move faster and with
more precision |
