subject: Common Cosmetic Dentistry Frequently Asked Questions (faq) About Professional Teeth Whitening [print this page] What are the different types of teeth stains?
Teeth stains types are arranged into three categories, namely natural stains, superficial stains and infused stains. The natural stains are acquired by age and they are natural conditions of the teeth, so it is impossible to remove them from the teeth. Natural stains are uniform in all the stains. A natural teeth stain is actually the natural teeth color.
The superficial stains are those that are acquired due to practices like smoking or too much drinking coffee. The extent of superficial stains on the teeth varies according to the position of the stains. For instance, the back surfaces of the teeth have tougher stains because they are seldom cared for in everyday toothbrushing.
The infused stains are more serious teeth stains and they are acquired by serious reasons like antibiotic (tetracycline) side effect during the formative years of the teeth. Fluorosis stains (stains due to excessive fluoride action on teeth enamel) are also of the last kind.
What are the cosmetic dentistry procedures to remove the stains?
Cosmetic dentists apply several procedures for removing teeth stains. However, right dentists always recommend to be completely sure before deciding on a cosmetic process. This is because cosmetic processes like bleaching or laser treatment can be considered harsh on the teeth.
The bleaching process usually removes the superficial stains. A dental bleach performs a bleaching reaction on the teeth enamel at the stained spot and the stains are removed. Other processes like placing a customized porcelain film on the teeth is seldom followed in case of this kind of stains. However, the porcelain process is sometimes the only solution in case of the infused stains. The porcelain films that are placed are known as veneers or lumineers.
For concealing the permanent stains, sometimes a laser teeth whitening process is also used. The laser process involves coating the stained portion with a laser active whitening gel. A laser ray then activates these gel molecules and the gel crystals fuse with the stains, thereby covering them adequately and immediately. A protective chemical safeguards the gums and the lips from the scorching laser rays.
IS there a permanent teeth whitening process in cosmetic dentistry?
Unfortunately, none of the processes can be claimed to be a permanent teeth whitening. The extent of teeth whitening also depends on the condition of the teeth and the extent of cosmetic dentistry applications. The veneers, lumineers and the laser processes only conceal the teeth stains effectively. A tooth bleaching technically removes the stains but lack of oral hygiene can bring the stains back.
