Who’s considered a candidate for teeth whitening?
Almost anyone who uses a tooth whitening agent will benefit at some level. Tooth whitening is the least aggressive procedure to a better, more esthetically pleasing smile. Whitening lightens the shade of the tooth and improves the overall appearance without the use of restorative materials. Almost anyone can use whitening but understand that the number of treatments will vary with each unique case.
Those that will benefit most from tooth whitening include; tea and coffee drinkers, tobacco users, and those with stains acquired by dietary habits. These stains appear more yellow, sometimes yellow/brown. These stains occur on the outermost surface of the tooth and are easiest to lighten and remove. However, heavy smokers, frequent coffee, and tea drinkers are less likely to achieve good results unless they are willing to discontinue the habit while enduring the whitening process. If discontinuing use of these substances is not something you can commit to the desensitizing gel can be used post whitening to act as a temporary sealant blocking the pores of the tooth. However, there is still a slight risk of the substances seeping in and restaining the tooth.
Those with intrinsic stains will require more applications than the average person. Intrinsic stains are those stains that rest below the surface of the enamel. Intrinsic stains appear grayish or grey-brown and require more applications because that the gel must pass through the pores of the enamel and into the dentin. Gray is the most difficult color to remove from tooth tissue. Satisfactory results from whitening are not unreachable, but it will require more dedication and patience.
Who’s NOT considered a candidate for teeth whitening?
Whitening is not recommended for people who experience chronic sensitivity, periodontal disease, oral cancer, or excessively worn and damaged enamel. Teeth that appear translucent may worsen with each whitening application and should be discontinued upon notice.
It is recommended that cavities be treated, and gums are healthy before any whitening procedure is considered.
Dental restorations neither stain or whiten
Dental restorations are made to match the color of your teeth at the present time of the dental work. As a result if you did not have your teeth whitened to their natural color prior to the dental work it will be darker than the natural teeth post-whitening. There is no solution for shade change of dental crowns, veneers and fillings other than replacement of the restoration. Natural teeth have pores and irregularities that can harbor even the smallest amounts of debris and bacteria. Unlike enamel, dental restorations such as fillings, veneers, and crowns have been glazed or polished and rounded to create a glassy smooth surface incapable of collecting stains. To learn more about the effects of whitening on dental work click here.
Tooth bleaching is the most conservative and cost effective treatment to improve or enhance a smile. However, bleaching is not permanent or risk-free. It is always a good idea to schedule a consultation with your dentist to discuss any further concerns.
Erin Stelbrink
Erin Stelbrink is a Registered Dental Hygienist with 11+ years of experience as a licensed hygienist and oral health care professional. She holds a passion for researching and acquiring awareness of the latest technologies and methods for providing valuable health care service and clinical treatment. Have more questions? Email Erin at [emailprotected]
FAQs
Teeth whitening is good for individuals who have healthy teeth already. It is better for patients not to have visible restorations before choosing whitening. Patients should also have healthy gums. The good news is that patients can have teeth restored and gums treated to become whitening candidates.
What disqualifies you from teeth whitening? ›
Teeth Whitening Disqualifications
Cavities, gum disease, fillings, crowns, and bridges may disqualify you from treatment. Other conditions and circ*mstances that may bar a patient from teeth whitening treatment include: Pregnancy and breast-feeding. Being under the age of 16.
What makes you a candidate for teeth whitening? ›
If you struggle with dull or yellowed teeth that cannot be easily whitened with regular brushing and flossing, then you are a great candidate for teeth whitening treatment. Teeth whitening is suitable for any type of discoloration, including age-related yellowness and stains caused by coffee and cigarettes.
Who is not a good candidate for teeth whitening? ›
Those who are suffering from periodontal disease, oral cancer, or who have enamel that is excessively worn down to not make good candidates for teeth whitening either. Most other patients should not have a problem.
What makes you ineligible for teeth whitening? ›
Barriers to Successful Teeth Whitening If you have fillings or other materials in your mouth, special considerations are necessary. Because crowns, bridges and other inorganic restorations are immune to the effects of tooth whitening, your natural teeth and restored teeth may not match after the procedure.
Who is not eligible for teeth whitening? ›
Your dentist will advise you whether whitening is right for you. It may be that teeth whitening isn't suitable, for example if you have gum disease or crowns.
How do I know if my teeth can't be whitened? ›
Tooth discoloration caused by medication, health conditions, or lost enamel may not respond well (or at all) to whitening treatments. On the other hand, stains from lifestyle and diet tend to respond well, but very heavy staining may require intensive whitening or other treatments to get the results you want.
Which teeth cannot be whitened? ›
Teeth that have yellowed with age
Dentin is naturally yellowish and cannot be lightened with teeth whitening products.
Who should avoid teeth whitening? ›
You may not be a candidate for teeth whitening. If you are allergic to peroxide, you will not be able to have your teeth whitened, since peroxide is the active ingredient in whitening systems. If you have a lot of fillings, dental bonding or crowns, you may not be a candidate for dental whitening.
What are the criteria for teeth whitening? ›
Dentists want prospective patients to meet two criteria before teeth whitening procedures. First, the patient has to be free of cavities. Next, they have to be free from gum disease. Occasionally, teeth whitening causes slight inflammation of the gums.
Tooth and gum sensitivity and pain
Store-bought products may contain abrasive substances like hydrogen peroxide, which can be effective if used minimally, but in large doses can cause erosion of teeth's enamel and shrinkage of the gums.
What is the least damaging way to whiten your teeth? ›
Baking Soda: As long as you are careful to brush gently, baking soda can eliminate stains from the surface of your teeth without damaging them. Whitening Strips: Whitening strips mold to the shape of your teeth to whiten them. Whitening strips are both safe and effective.
What are the cons of teeth whitening? ›
Schedule an appointment with our dentist in Gainesville for more information or a consultation about your specific concerns.
- Tooth sensitivity. ...
- Doesn't work on all teeth. ...
- May exacerbate certain conditions. ...
- Temporary. ...
- Don't use if you're pregnant.
However, teeth whitening treatments can cause damage to the enamel if not done correctly or overused. Enamel damage can lead to increased sensitivity, pain, and white spots on your teeth. It's essential to consult with a dentist before using any teeth whitening products to ensure they're safe for your teeth.
Why are my teeth still yellow after whitening? ›
Teeth can become temporarily dehydrated after using whitening strips. Your teeth may appear more yellow as a result of this dehydration because the enamel may become dry and lack moisture. Dehydrated enamel sometimes has a transparent appearance that makes the naturally yellowish dentin underneath visible.
Are all teeth able to be whitened? ›
Tooth-whitening works best for people with yellow teeth and is less effective for people with brown teeth. If your teeth are gray or purple, tooth bleaching probably won't work at all. To be sure tooth-whitening is worth your time and money, talk to your dentist before you use an over-the-counter tooth whitening kit.
When not to get teeth whitening? ›
This group includes patients who have teeth that have become transparent as part of the aging process, patients who are sensitive to peroxide or other chemicals used in their chosen teeth whitening treatment, patients who have ultra-sensitive teeth or gums, which may be irritated by the chemicals used in the whitening ...
Are some teeth resistant to whitening? ›
The natural color of teeth can vary due to various factors, including genetics, age, and lifestyle habits. Some individuals naturally have teeth that are darker or have a yellowish tint. These teeth may have a denser enamel layer or more pigmented dentin, making them more resistant to whitening treatments.
