Doctor's Corner
A very common question that I am asked is about the effectiveness of the different types of bleaching. The most effective type of bleaching is in-office combined with the take home tray system. This allows for rapid color change under the office control. The one hour procedure is equal to 56 hours of home bleaching. The trays give us the option to further bleach in more difficult cases. Additionally, you have the capability with the trays of touching up at home to maintain the color; this usually takes 2-3 nights every 3-12 months.
The next best option is home bleaching with custom trays. You cannot get quite as much color change on average and it is dependent on patient compliance. Generally, you will need to bleach 1-2 weeks at night per arch. Since you already have the trays, you can do touch ups to maintain the color; again, usually 2-3 nights every 3-12 months.
The least effective method is over the counter bleaching as the chemical concentrations are lower and less controlled.
Bleaching is most effective in younger patients who want to remove the yellow-orange color from their teeth; they do not have any grayness or color variations. Patients with multiple colors or a grayish color will not get great results. An example is tetracycline staining which causes horizontal bands in the teeth or fluorosis (mineralization). These bands or contrasts will not disappear with bleaching but can lighten. The longevity of bleaching depends on the composition of your teeth. People who have porous teeth that tend to absorb pigmentation of food or drink will need to touch up more frequently. On the other hand, those with teeth that do not stain as easily will not have to touch up as frequently. In addition, always remember that crowns and fillings will not lighten with bleaching, the position of these restorations must be considered before bleaching.
Sensitivity also varies from person to person, depending on a lot of factors. For this reason, the solutions distributed in our office come in varying concentrations. We also offer a desensitizing agent to reduce this effect. In general, the sensitivity is manageable and transient, only lasting 24 hours.
Bleaching is a very simple and economical way of making cosmetic enhancements to your smile, but it does have limitations. I want all my patients to be aware of these so that you can have realistic expectations with your individual situation. My staff and I will always be glad to advise you of your situation as we want you to be happy with your results.
For patients who have severely sensitive teeth, multiple colors, damage from clenching and grinding, arrangement issues or an improper bite, you may consider bonded ceramic restorations. Porcelain does not stain from coffee, tea, wine or cigarettes. They can correct all color issues so the patient can choose whatever color they wish, straighten teeth and strengthen damaged teeth.
Please call our office today to discuss what your options may be, my staff and I are always ready and willing to help!
HYGIENE HELLO
I just wanted to take a moment this month and thank all of you for being such great patients. I consider each of you to be, not only the best patients in Dallas, but also my friends. Thank you for all your support throughout this pregnancy. I have enjoyed talking with each one of you, for the encouragement and the sympathy. You have each made my time here in Dallas worthwhile. I wish each and every one of you the best that life has to offer! I hope that someone in your life will touch you as much as you have each touched and enriched my life. Your thoughtfulness and kindness has not gone unnoticed. Keep taking care of your teeth, after all, your smiles are so beautiful! I have enjoyed helping you to feel good about your oral health. Take care, I hope to see you all someday! I am confident that Melissa will take great care of you!
Annilee Cook, RDH
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
This is one of my favorite fall recipes, it is perfect for those cold nights, assuming we will ever have some cold nights here in Dallas.
Corn Chowder
Ingredients:
- 5-6 potatoes-cut into soup size chunks
- 1 yellow onion
- 2 cans of creamed corn
- 1 Q. half and half
- 1 t. sugar
- onion salt, salt, and pepper to taste
Directions:
Cut potatoes and onions into bite sized pieces. Place in large pot with enough water just to cover. Boil until tender. Add creamed corn and half and half. Heat slowly on medium high heat. Mix cornstarch or flour with water as needed and add to thicken. Stir constantly while thickening to avoid scorching (it will take awhile for soup to thicken). Add sugar and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Have you noticed the beautiful decorating changes that have been going on in our office? We thought that with all the hustle and bustle of the upcoming holiday season, you might be interested in Tania's services in your own home! She would love to help you get trimmed and decorated for this holiday season!
Shabby to Chic Interiors-Tania George
214-534-5347
Have a great November!
-Aesthetic Dentistry Centre
