Advantages:
People typically have a tooth whitened to improve their
appearance. Teeth that are all of the same bright color are associated with beauty and a
healthier lifestyle. When people have a brighter smile, they tend to smile more often and
are less self-conscious.
In addition, a whiter smile tends to minimize the
appearance of facial wrinkles, giving way to a more youthful and energetic appearance.
Finally, a whiter smile gives people to whom you are
speaking a place to focus on and gives you a friendlier appearance.
Disadvantages:
Although tooth bleaching is very effective, there can
be short term disadvantages, such as sore gums or tooth from the bleach. This disappears
when bleach use is discontinued. Some individuals are more chemically sensitive. If you
are one of them, inform your dentist so that you can be tested for sensitivity to
the solution.
Research indicates that tooth bleaching is completely
effective in more than 78% of people. In cases of serious tooth discoloration, bleaching
may not be the best choice. Veneers or crowns may be the superior choice. Bleaching is
usually the first solution to try due to its lower cost.

Next: Photos of tooth
whitening
- Introduction to tooth whitening
- How much can a tooth be whitened?
- What causes a tooth to become discolored?
- Procedure description: cosmetic tooth whitening (bleaching)
- What types of tooth whitening are there?
- How much does tooth whitening cost?
- What are the pros and cons of the procedure?
- Before and after photos - tooth whitening
- Personal stories from bleaching patients
- Discuss tooth whitening on the dentistry Message
Board
