Why Your Whitening Products May Be Ineffective
- There are layers of plaque and tartar which accumulate on the surface of the teeth that act as a barrier between the whitening product and your teeth.
- All forms of teeth whitening products are most effective when there is no plaque and tartar build up.
- Brushing your teeth before doing any whitening procedure will help your whitening product be more effective.
- A Dental Prophylaxis (teeth cleaning) before any whitening treatment will give the whitening agent optimal conditions and get you better results.
- Deep Cleaning may be required in cases where there is an excess of plaque and tartar build up. In these conditions using any form of whitening agent before the deep cleaning will drastically reduce the effectiveness of the product.
Types of Stains? Intrinsic? Extrinsic?
- Extrinsic stains are located on the surface of the teeth while Intrinsic stains are located in the enamel and in the dentin. (under the enamel).
- Extrinsic stains can be removed by whitening tooth paste but stubborn stains might require stronger whitening agents.
Intrinsic Stains are much harder to reach and usually require stronger forms of whitening methods to remove them. In office whitening systems are usually the method to have these stains removed.
Do Whitening Toothpastes Work?
- Yes whitening tooth pastes work for most surface stains.
- Teeth whitening tooth pastes do not work on intrinsic stains which are the cause tooth discoloration.
- Whitening tooth pastes are still a great option to keep your teeth white and prevent any future staining.
How Do Whitening Gels Work?
- Whitening gels are able to penetrate your enamel and reach the discolored portions of your teeth.
- The gel breaks the bonds of the molecules which cause the discoloration on your teeth. The gel removes these staining molecules which leave you with a brighter and whiter smile.