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Advanced cosmetic and general dentistry

Why is my dentist against doing teeth whitening before filling cavities?

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I’m wondering if you can tell me why my dentist might be against doing teeth whitening before filling my cavities. I want my teeth whitened for a family reunion / cruise. My dentist does in-office whitening but he wants me to have cavities filled first. The whitening is my priority because the reunion is in 3 weeks. I thought that I should get my teeth whitened first and fillings after to match. I’m confused. I asked him about his reasoning, but he pretty much said he prefers to do it that way. Before I go back to my dentist, I want to be sure that I understand the right order to get the work done. Which should be done first teeth whitening or fillings? And why would my dentist ask me to get the cavities filled first? Thanks. Nikki

Nikki – We’re not sure why your dentist is asking you to have your cavities filled first. Your teeth can be whitened first, but whether or not they should be depends on the condition of your teeth and the extent of your cavities. We’ll explain some factors for you to consider.

  • Prescription-strength teeth whitening can cause sensitivity in teeth. If you have untreated tooth decay, the bleaching gel can affect tooth nerves and cause much discomfort.
  • Some experts say that bleaching gel can irritate decayed teeth or make cavities worse and weaken your teeth.
  • If your teeth are whitened after cavities are filled, the fillings will be darker than your teeth. But this probably won’t be noticeable—particularly because cavities are usually placed on the biting surfaces of your teeth. Composite fillings are tooth colored and less noticeable anyway.

If you want your fillings to match your whitened teeth, ask your dentist again if whitening can be completed first. You can also try again to ask for an explanation as to why he prefers to fill your cavities first. The reason will likely make sense.

Additionally, you can consider getting a second opinion from a cosmetic dentist.

 

This post is sponsored by Lowell cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

Groupon teeth whitening kit burned my gums

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I got a teeth whitening kit on Groupon. I didn’t want to get the cheapest one or the most expensive one. So I went in the middle. The kit came with trays that you have to boil and then shape onto your teeth. I followed the instructions carefully and fit the trays to my own teeth. I put the amount of gel in the trays as instructed and put the trays on my teeth. The instructions said to leave the trays on for 30 minutes. I had them on for just 3 minutes and had to take them off because my gums started burning so bad. The next day white stuff was peeling off of my gums and they were still burning. How do I find a teeth whitening kit that is affordable but won’t ruin my gums? Thanks. Saray

Saray – When you buy a teeth whitening kit online and it irritates your teeth or gums, there are several possible causes.

  • The whitening trays aren’t a good fit, and bleaching gel is oozing out of the trays onto your gums.
  • The bleaching gel is too strong, or you’ve left it on too long.
  • The bleaching gel contains an irritant or a chemical that is causing the burning or sensitivity.

How to find teeth whitening that works – not hurts

Customized trays – Customized trays are made based on impressions of your teeth. They have a snug fit to keep the teeth whitening gel sealed on your teeth. If you use the amount of bleaching gel instructed, it won’t ooze out and burn your gums. Your dentist can provide you with an accurate impression and customized trays.

The right concentration of gel – Bleaching gel comes in a variety of strengths. A gel needs to be selected based on the extent of the stains in your teeth and the level of sensitivity in your teeth. Although you might need a lower concentration of gel, your treatment period can be extended to get your teeth their brightest. Consult with your dentist to ensure you use the right gel and treatment time.

Quality bleaching gel – Only use high-quality gel for teeth whitening. Carbamide peroxide is the primary ingredient in the gel used by dentists. Don’t order gel from questionable sources.

If you have prolonged irritation or sensitivity in your teeth or gums from bleaching gel, schedule an appointment with your dentist for an exam. For the most predictable and successful results, get your treatment from your dentist, or ask him or her for advice before you make the purchase.

 

This post is sponsored by Lowell cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

How much will a cosmetic dentist charge to whiten my teeth if my parents won’t pay for it?

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My parents don’t want me to go to a cosmetic dentist to whiten my teeth until I’m 21. I’m 16 and have my own job. They didn’t exactly say that I can’t do it, so I know I would need to get it done on my own. I’ve been trying to talk my dad into it and I told him I will pay for it. He said he would talk to my mom and they will discuss whether or not I can get it done if I pay for it. He’s not making any promises though. For now they would never take me to the dentist themselves and put it through on their dental insurance so I’m planning on getting it done myself. I want to save enough money to cover the cost so that my parents will never get a bill. Will you please tell how much a cosmetic dentist will charge me to whiten my teeth? Thanks. Brooks

Brooks – We understand that you want a bright smile, but please understand that dentists, doctors, and other healthcare professionals must obey the law. When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, this means that a minor cannot receive restorative or cosmetic treatment without the consent of his or her parent or legal guardian.

Translation: A cosmetic dentist won’t whiten your teeth without approval from your parents.

Informed Consent Process

The informed consent process requires a dentist to have a discussion with your parent or legal guardian before you receive treatment. This requires a cosmetic dentist to explain treatment options, risks, and outcomes for the treatment you’re receiving. Depending on the dentist, verbal consent or a signature will be required from a parent or legal guardian.

How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?

If your parents agree that you can have your teeth whitened as long as you pay for it, your dentist will let you know the fees associated with it. Your cosmetic dentist will require you to have a recent dental cleaning before your teeth are whitened. The cost of teeth whitening depends on the dentist and his or her location in the U.S.

The average cost in the U.S. is below. Your actual cost might differ.

Take-home whitening: $250-$400

In-office whitening: $450-$650

Keep in mind that although most people have no problems with teeth whitening, it isn’t for everyone.

  • Your cosmetic dentist needs to examine your teeth and gums to ensure they are healthy enough for whitening.
  • If there are stains in your teeth, the cause of the stains will be determined before your teeth are whitened.
  •  In some cases, teeth whitening doesn’t help stains at all. It can even make stains worse.
  • Your dentist will let you know the results you can expect from bleaching your teeth.

It’s best to speak with your parents and calmly discuss the reasons you want your teeth whitened. Respect their decision. If you try to sneak and get it done anyway, the consequences might not be worth it.

This post is sponsored by Lowell, MA accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

 

 

 

How can I get my dental implants to match my teeth whitening?

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In 2011 I received 3 dental implants. They feel natural and they are very durable. I haven’t had any problems with them at all. Although it took 2 years to pay for them on the payment plan, it was worth it. I would do it all over again if I needed to. My concern is the color of my natural teeth. I smile a lot, but my smile looks dull and I want whiter teeth. My 3 implants are on the left, upper front side and they are very visible when I smile. If I understand it correctly, if I get my teeth whitened, they will be darker than the implants because the implant crowns won’t change color. I am wondering what my options are to get my natural teeth whitened and to have the implants match them. Is there some kind of overlay that can be placed on the crowns? Thanks. Camelia

Camelia – Your understanding is correct. Dental implant crowns are made of porcelain, and they are stain resistant and colorfast. Layers of porcelain are used to create natural tooth color and translucence. The color is baked into the porcelain at a dental laboratory. Although porcelain veneers can be placed over natural teeth, it would be difficult to place them over dental crowns. It would make your implant crowns look bulky, and your crowns would still be noticeably different from your natural teeth.

Since your implant crowns are clearly visible when you smile, if you get your teeth whitened, you would need to replace your crowns if you want them to match. Only the top, or crown, of each dental implant needs to be replaced. It will only take two to three weeks to receive crowns that match your natural teeth.

Your teeth can be whitened, but if you have dental implants, you should work with a cosmetic dentist to ensure you have crowns that seamlessly blend with them. Schedule a consultation with an accredited cosmetic dentist to discuss your options.

This post is sponsored by Lowell, MA cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

 

Will teeth whitening work on my dentures?

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I’ve only had my dentures for 3 years and they look dingy. I paid too much for them for them to look like this. My dentist keeps telling me to use denture cleaner, but I do that regularly and I keep my dentures clean, very clean. I’m beginning to think that the dentures are low quality, even though they were expensive. I want to preserve them as long as possible so I don’t have to get new ones but the color of the denture teeth is bothering me. My sister suggested that I try whitening strips on them. Will this work? What brand do you recommend? Thanks. Ethel

Ethel – The situation with your dentures is unfortunate. It does sound like you’ve invested in poor-quality dentures. Neither teeth whitening strips nor any other form of whitening will change the color of your dentures. The teeth in the appliance are colorfast. Although stains can be removed from them with denture cleaner, you won’t be able to make them lighter than the original color.

It seems that you’re taking good care of your dentures. Although teeth whitening won’t work, continue to do what you can to preserve them. Below are a few tips.

  • Use pastes and cleaners specifically designed for dentures. Many types of toothpaste are too abrasive for denture teeth.
  • Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to clean the appliance and your gums, tongue, cheeks, and the roof of your mouth.
  • Remove your dentures before you sleep overnight.
  • Avoid boiling your dentures. Extreme heat can permanently destroy the shape.
  • Don’t bleach your dentures. Bleach is not meant for oral appliances, and it can be toxic.
  • If stubborn stains aren’t removed with denture cleaner, they can be ultrasonically cleaned in your dentist’s office.
  • Keep your dentures moist. Safely store them in a mild soaking solution.
  • Ensure you store your appliance out of the reach of children and pets.

In time you will need new dentures. When you do, find an accredited cosmetic dentist. He or she is trained in dental aesthetics. You will receive high-quality, cosmetic dentures that look natural. Your prosthesis will be customized to complement your facial features and preferences. You’ll have input on the shape and color of the denture teeth, too.

This post is sponsored by Lowell, MA cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.