Find Out If You're A Good Candidate For Teeth Bleaching

Teeth staining occurs for a number of different reasons. For some people, it's the excessive consumption of staining beverages, like red wine, and for other people, it's simply a sign of age. If you're considering the idea of having your teeth professionally bleached, it's best to find out if you're a good candidate. Good candidates for this treatment will have longer and more dramatic results. There are several qualifications that determine a good candidate; here are some of them.

Tobacco-Free Lifestyle

Tobacco is one of the leading reasons for teeth staining. Consequently, patients who have ceased the use of tobacco or have never used it will make better candidates for teeth whitening than individuals who are currently using these products. If you are an active tobacco user and you have your teeth whitened, chances are good that the stains will reappear shortly, making the treatment virtually useless.

No Allergies To Peroxide

It's also important to ensure you don't have any allergies to peroxide. Peroxide is a leading ingredient in the whitening agent used during the bleaching process. Although the bleach is applied directly to your teeth, it can easily come in contact with your gums and other parts of your mouth, leading to a reaction. If you have an allergy to peroxide, an alternative method is best.

Crown And Filling-Free

Whitening agents are formulated to lighten enamel. They are not designed to lighten dental restorations like crowns or tooth-colored filings. If you have any of these restorations installed and you have your teeth bleached, there will be a clear color distinction between the restorations and your natural teeth. If you have your teeth whitened, be prepared to have your crown or filing replaced to match the new appearance of your teeth.

An Alternative

If you aren't exactly a good candidate for teeth bleaching, no worries, you can still achieve the beautiful smile you want. Dental restorations, like porcelain veneers, is just one of these alternatives. Veneers are basically shells that are placed over your natural teeth, eliminating the need to have your teeth removed. They function and look just like your natural teeth and allow you to take control and determine the exact shade of your teeth.

Having a conversation with a dental provider, like George S Cochran DDS, about your desire to have your teeth whitened should be step number one. Your provider will perform an examination to determine if teeth whitening is right for you.