Visit Your Dentist Prior to Whitening

HARRISBURG, Pa., Sept. 29, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Whitening procedures and products can help restore the smile of those seeking a brighter one. However, a darker issue has surfaced with this trend—the rise of non-dentists providing certain tooth whitening procedures at salons, spas and shopping malls.

The Pennsylvania Dental Association (PDA) encourages the public to consult with and have a thorough examination performed by a licensed dentist prior to having any tooth whitening procedure.

There is an increased possibility for issues when tooth whitening is conducted in malls and salons by non-dental professionals, as well as with the use of over-the-counter bleaching products without a prior examination by your dentist. A dentist can assess teeth and gums to determine whether tooth whitening will be comfortable and whether the patient will receive the desired results. This is particularly important for patients with many fillings, crowns and extremely dark stains.

The Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry is developing a policy statement that will help provide more guidance by clearly defining tooth whitening as the practice of dentistry. This approach will ensure that the patient's specific dental needs are being properly addressed by an individual who is trained and licensed to diagnose and identify possible complications that could occur due to inadequately performed procedures.

After a thorough examination is performed, your dentist can determine if bleaching is an appropriate course of treatment and together you can determine the most suitable treatment. The following are common treatment options your dentist may recommend:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products: These typically yield a very subtle lightening of the teeth. The American Dental Association (ADA) approves both dentist dispensed and over-the-counter non-prescription whitening products that have met the ADA's criteria for both effectiveness and safety.
• Prescription bleaching kits: Kits are dispensed by a licensed dentist and contain peroxide(s) that will bleach the tooth enamel. Prescription bleaching kits contain higher levels of carbamide or hydrogen peroxide than their non-prescription counterparts. Peroxide whiteners typically come in a gel and are placed in a tray similar to a mouthguard. By obtaining the bleaching solution from your dentist, he or she can make a custom-fitted tray specifically designed to fit your teeth. Poorly fitting trays can cause gingival irritation and tissue burning.
• Zoom whitening: Also known as power whitening, is a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide gel coupled with a high intensity light used to whiten the teeth. This in-office procedure takes approximately one hour. Costing around $600, the results typically last about three years with a periodic whitening at home for maintenance.
• Whitening toothpaste: While these will not change the natural color of teeth, some contain a special chemical or polishing agent to help more effectively remove stains from the tooth's surface.

Dr. Sam Mansour, a PDA member dentist, said that while not everyone is a candidate for tooth whitening, even one or two shades can make a drastic difference in appearance, confidence and youth.

"While some whitening can be achieved with over-the-counter products, dentist supervised products are the safest, most effective method to attain a brighter, healthier smile," Mansour said. "Along with good oral hygiene, tooth whitening can be an excellent part of your routine to keep you smiling."

PDA reminds the public that tooth whitening is not a replacement for a daily oral hygiene routine. Brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will help to keep that white smile healthy for a lifetime.

About the Pennsylvania Dental Association
Founded in 1868, the Pennsylvania Dental Association (PDA) is comprised of approximately 6,000 member dentists. It is a constituency of the American Dental Association (ADA), the largest and oldest national dental society in the world. PDA's mission is to improve the public health, promote the art and science of dentistry and represent the interests of its member dentists and their patients. PDA is the voice of dentistry in Pennsylvania. For more information on PDA, visit our website at www.padental.org.

SOURCE Pennsylvania Dental Association