If you’re considering teeth whitening, you may be wondering if it will work on fillings. The short answer is: it depends. Here’s what you need to know about teeth whitening and fillings.
Introduction
There are many ways to achieve brighter teeth, and each method has its own set of pros and cons. You may have heard that teeth whitening doesn’t work on fillings, but this isn’t necessarily true. While it’s true that some types of fillings can make teeth whitening less effective, there are ways to work around this. In this article, we’ll explore the topic of teeth whitening and fillings in more detail and give you some tips on how to get the best results.
What is teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is a process of lightening the color of your teeth. It can be done by bleaching your teeth with a peroxide-based solution or by using other methods such as special toothpastes, gels, or strips.
The American Dental Association (ADA) does not recommend any specific home teeth whitening products. However, they do state that “researched and evidence-based bonding agents and bleaching agents can provide safe and effective results.”
If you are considering teeth whitening, it’s important to consult with your dentist first to make sure it’s right for you.
How does teeth whitening work?
At-home teeth whitening kits use bleaching agents that are weaker than those used by professional dentists. Even so, when used correctly, they can still be quite effective at making your teeth look brighter and more attractive.
The most common bleaching agent used in at-home teeth whitening kits is carbamide peroxide. This substance breaks down into hydrogen peroxide, which is the active ingredient that actually bleach your teeth.
To use an at-home teeth whitening kit, you’ll need to apply the bleaching gel to your teeth using a mouthguard-like tray. The tray helps to keep the gel in contact with your teeth for the recommended amount of time, which is typically around 30 minutes.
You may need to use the kit for several days or weeks before you see noticeable results. The length of time will depend on the strength of the bleaching gel and how badly stained your teeth are to begin with.
Does teeth whitening work on fillings?
If you are considering teeth whitening, you may be wondering if it will work on your fillings. The answer depends on the type of filling you have.
Teeth whitening works by bleaching the tooth enamel, which is the outermost layer of the tooth. This will not affect any type of dental filling that does not contain tooth enamel. This includes gold and amalgam (silver) fillings.
However, if you have a tooth-colored filling (composite or porcelain), it is possible that bleaching could slightly change the color of your filling. If this is a concern, you may want to speak with your dentist about other options for whitening your teeth.
Are there any side effects of teeth whitening?
While teeth whitening is safe for most people, there are some potential side effects that you should be aware of. These include:
-Tooth sensitivity: Teeth may become more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures after whitening. This usually goes away within a few days, but if it persists, you should talk to your dentist.
-Gum irritation: Whitening products can cause gum irritation and redness. This is usually temporary and will go away once you stop using the product.
-Upset stomach: Some people may experience an upset stomach after whitening their teeth. This is most likely due to the fact that whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide, which can be an irritant to the stomach. If you experience this, try drinking plenty of water and avoid using the product for a few days.
If you experience any of these side effects, talk to your dentist. They can help you determine whether or not teeth whitening is right for you.
How long do the results of teeth whitening last?
The results of teeth whitening can last for several years, but they may gradually fade over time. If you want to maintain your whitened teeth, you will need to avoid foods and drinks that can stain them and brush and floss regularly. You may also need to touch up your teeth with whitening products on a regular basis.
How much does teeth whitening cost?
Over-the-counter teeth whitening products are inexpensive, and they are a great way to get started on your journey to a brighter smile. You can find these products at most drug stores and grocery stores. There are also many brands that offer home teeth whitening kits that you can purchase online. The cost of these kits ranges from $20 to $100, depending on the brand and the number of treatments included.
Conclusion
The short answer is that, yes, teeth whitening can work on fillings – but the results may not be as dramatic as you’re hoping for.
Fillings are made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, composite resin, and ceramic. These materials can generally be lightened by teeth whitening treatments, but the results will vary depending on the type of filling and its original color.
If you’re considering teeth whitening and you have fillings, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist first. They can help you understand what results you can realistically expect and make sure that teeth whitening is right for you.
