Teeth get stained over a period of time due to smoking, food and beverage consumption. Superficial stains can be removed by oral prophylaxis (Scaling). However, the intrinsic stains are tougher to deal with and require bleaching by “chemical oxidation”.
Only a trained clinician can properly diagnose the type of stains and prescribe the appropriate method and type of bleaching to achieve the desired result.
The number of appointments varies for different individuals and darker teeth may require multiple visits. Touch-up bleach may be required once every 8-12 months to renew the whiteness.
Lasers are the most notable of the newest hi-tech armamentarium. The use of lasers for bleaching can significantly reduce bleaching time and sensitivity. In addition, persistent stains such as those caused by tetracycline which were earlier considered resistant, will eventually respond with increased number of treatments.