Here at San Diego Dentistry, we have had a tremendous increase in the public interest in tooth whitening. When first introduced, there were numerous concerns about the effects of whitening products on both the enamel and the gum tissue. A major problem with many of the “over the counter” products and products introduced in T.V. ads was that they were acidic. These products produced significant loss of calcium in the enamel.
Ten years of clinical testing by the ADA (American Dental Association) have substantiated the safety and effectiveness of 10-15 % carbamide peroxide in tooth whitening. This testing has resulted in the ADA acceptance of only five home use products. One of these products, Opalescence, made by Ultradent, is my personal choice. If you want the names of the other accepted products, please call San Diego Dentistry at 858-483-3302.
Tooth sensitivity is a concern for a small percentage of patients. The practice of overnight bleaching, which is the accepted method, leads to a certain amount of tooth dehydration and sensitivity. In patients for whom this is an issue the use of the trays for 3-4 hours before bedtime can help. The trays can be cleaned and then neutral fluoride or potassium nitrate placed to further reduce sensitivity.
Some patients who are interested in faster whitening results are candidates for in office bleaching which uses higher concentrations of carbamide peroxide with an energy source. These can be lasers, lamps, or heating devices. Many of these devices have not achieved ADA acceptance and studies of carbamide peroxide in concentrations above 15% have negative clinical reports. These techniques lack scientific support and I therefore use only home bleaching with ADA approved materials.
If you have further questions please contact San Diego Dentistry at 858-483-3302.
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