Teeth stains are inevitable. They may be a result of
If you feel that your smile is lacking some sparkle, you may want to consider going for teeth whitening.
However, prior to such treatment, the Oral Health Foundation encourages you to go for a dental check up first. In certain cases (e.g. if you have cavities, worn enamel or had dental restorations done), this procedure is not suitable.
If you have sensitive gums or teeth, we will prescribe a protective gel to be applied a few weeks before the procedure.
Extrinsic teeth stains are staining on the surface of your teeth. They occur when stain particles accumulate in the film of protein covering your teeth enamel.
These stains are usually a result of tobacco use and frequent consumption of coffee, tea, wine, or cola. They can be easily removed and respond well to regular dental cleaning and brushing with whitening toothpastes.
Unlike extrinsic stains, intrinsic teeth stains are staining below the surface of your teeth. The staining happens when stain particles work through the exterior of your teeth; they accumulate within your teeth enamel, staining their inner layer.
Such stains may be caused by an excessive consumption of fluoride during the first 8 years of childhood (fluorosis) or bleeding from trauma to the tooth.
Removal of an intrinsic stain may require bleaching using the services of a professional or a chemical teeth-whitening product.
Age-related teeth stains are the result of both intrinsic and extrinsic tooth stains. Teeth discolour with age because the dentin (the core tissue of your teeth) turns yellow over time.
As we grow older, the enamel covering your teeth starts to thin, exposing the yellowish dentin, causing your teeth to stain.
In-office treatments are carried out by professional dentists, promising optimum results in a short amount of time.
In most cases, a brighter smile can be achieved in one treatment, thus offering convenience to busy individuals who are looking for swift results. However, such treatments are usually more costly than other whitening methods.
Dentists can make custom-made trays to fit your mouth, allowing you to undergo treatment from the comfort of your home.
These teeth whitening trays typically cost less than in-office treatment and are more convenient. While the whitening process may take a longer time, it is gradual and less harsh on your teeth.
Note: We do not recommend patients to purchase such products because they are generally ineffective.
As dictated by the prevailing regulations from the relevant authorities, teeth whitening products containing more than 0.1% Hydrogen Peroxide are only available via dentists. Hydrogen Peroxide is the chemical ingredient that whitens the teeth.
Many beauty salons claim that they use non-Peroxide whitening gels. The majority of these non-Peroxide whitening agents use Sodium Perborate to ‘whiten’ teeth instead.
Sodium Perborate is a salt made from Hydrogen Peroxide. It causes dehydration of the teeth, resulting in a brighter colour. However, this effect is short-lived as our teeth are re-hydrated through saliva. In short, Sodium Perborate temporarily LIGHTENS teeth, rather than WHITENING them.
On the other hand, Peroxides are “true bleaches” that whiten rather than lighten teeth. They whiten teeth by opening highly pigmented carbon rings and converting them into chains, which are lighter in colour.
Teeth whitening is generally safe if performed by a professional dentist. Certain products or treatment, however, may result in adverse health consequences.
Before undergoing any course of teeth whitening, it is important to consider whether it has been approved and will be conducted in a clinical environment.
Whitening treatment is not a permanent solution to having white teeth; the duration of whitening effects will vary among different people. As such, it is impossible to know exactly how long the effects of your treatment might last.
But generally, the effects of whitening last for about 1 to 1.5 years, depending on your dietary and lifestyle habits. Smokers and people who consume alcohol can expect to have their teeth stained more easily.
To prolong the whitening effects, stick to a dental routine consisting of brushing daily and regular flossing to remove plaque buildup. This is important because plaque can make your teeth appear darker than it is.
For added protection against coffee or tea stains, use a toothpaste that protects against staining.
Patients who have undergone chair-side professional treatment can maintain and prolong the whitening effect by purchasing the take home whitening kit.
Visiting your dentist for regular checkups can help to maintain your smile. The professional cleaning and polishing that you receive at your dentist’s office can help to effectively remove surface stains.
A combination of excellent dental hygiene and professional cleanings can help you to maintain your pearly whites.
One of the simplest ways to keep your teeth clean is to avoid food and drinks that will stain them.
For at least two weeks following your whitening session, you should avoid coffee, red wine and tea. If you are unsure of what food and drinks to steer clear of, a good rule of thumb is to avoid any food or drink that would stain a white cloth.
Some people may find it impossible to give up their daily coffee or tea. If you belong to that category, consider using a straw! Straws help to prevent staining. Alternatively, rinse with water after consumption of these teeth-staining food and beverages.
The cost of whitening treatment are as follows:
We ensure that your needs are met every step of the way; from the initial consultation to post-treatment, our team guarantees that you are provided with high-quality care.
You can take comfort in knowing that all your dental needs will be handled by our experienced and passionate team of experts.
ZOOM® Advance Power Professional Teeth Whitening System
At i.Dental, we are equipped with the technology designed for safety and maximum efficiency. With ZOOM®, whitening treatments can be performed smoothly and quickly.
Natura+ Whitening System
The system is designed to effectively target intrinsic and extrinsic stains to enhance your smile.
Before any whitening can be done, your dentist will first apply a layer of protective gel to the outline of your gums. Following this, your teeth will be placed under a dental curing LED lamp before the bleaching gel is applied. At the end of the treatment, the bleaching gel is removed and your teeth will be polished.
