Things That Are Considered by Your Dentist Before Teeth Whitening

Before teeth whitening is performed, your dentist will first examine your teeth. The examination is critical as it will tell if the procedure can be done safely, you have any underlying conditions that will hinder the success of the process and what level of whitening you will achieve. What is your dentist looking for?

Intra-Oral and Extra-Oral Examination 

The hard and soft tissues of your mouth will be examined and so is your neck and head. The dentist is simply looking for any oral health problems. He or she may be searching for lumps, sores, infections or even cancer. You can expect your dentist to carry out appropriate radiographs and screening or diagnostic tests. Radiographs screen for diseases that mask themselves as discoloured teeth.

Underlying Conditions

If upon examination your dentist discovers some underlying conditions such as tooth decay, you need to understand that teeth whitening will not work. In some cases, leaking restorations and dental caries may make your teeth appear dark. Bleaching may make your teeth white, but remember, the real problem has not been solved. This is why teeth whitening should be done by a dentist, and you should not try DIY.

History

There is definitely a reason why you have visited your dentist for teeth whitening. Your doctor will require you to give your teeth history. You may be required to state what dental procedures you have previously undergone and if you have any teeth sensitivity or allergies. Your teeth history may even render teeth whitening not effective and classify your condition as requiring therapy, restoration or even surgery.

When giving your history, your habits and lifestyle are also a good reference. They may indicate the source of your teeth discolouration.

Restorations Do Not Change Colour

As a patient, it is important to note that if you have previously had restorations, they will not change colour. You need to lower your expectations. It is common for patients seeking teeth whitening to have unrealistic expectations.

Verdict

After your dentist has thoroughly examined your teeth, a decision will be made. It can be either you will have teeth whitening done, or you need to have some other procedure done first. It is, therefore, important that you visit your dentist with an open mind.

If you will be undergoing teeth whitening, your dentist will make sure that the materials, techniques and delivery systems he or she uses suits your teeth condition best especially in the case of sensitivity.

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