Dentistry is the known evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the soft and hard tissues of the jaw (mandible), the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and the adjacent.
An Interview with Dr. Maya Johar on Tooth Whitening
Dr. Maya Johar is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions bizymoms visitors have about Tooth Whitening.
Q. What is tooth whitening?
A. Tooth whitening is a procedure which successfully lightens tooth stains on the surfaces of the teeth caused by diet (curry, red wine, coffee stains) and lifestyle factors (smoking, chewing tobacco, etc…). A peroxide gel is applied to the surfaces of the teeth, effectively removing the external stains, leaving the teeth noticeably whiter and brighter.
The bleaching solutions used in over the counter products, professional strength home whitening systems and in office whitening have all been found to be safe to the enamel of the tooth.
Q. Who may benefit from teeth whitening?
A. Everyone can benefit from the positive psychological and esthetic impact of a bright white smile! Ideal candidates are those with surface stains caused by consuming staining foods, drinking coffee and red wine and smokers.
Q. Who are not recommended to undergo teeth whitening?
A. Dr. Johar recommends that children under 12 do not use whitening products. If your child has external staining, an in office procedure, called micro abrasion, which gently polishes the teeth is a better way to go. Also, it is important to make sure that you don’t have existing untreated cavities as those teeth will be incredibly sensitive during whitening and whitening procedures should be avoided until the decay is treated.
Certain conditions like tetracycline staining which is a stain to the deep internal tooth structure and enamel fluorosis may not respond to whitening. Crowns, veneers, bridges and tooth colored fillings will not change color which could mean that a crown which was previously unnoticeable may stand out if the surrounding teeth become whiter. Your dentist will be able to explain any conditions which may make you think twice about whitening.
Q. What does tooth whitening involve?
A. In-office ZOOM tooth whitening involves isolating the cheeks, gums and teeth, painting a high concentration bleaching solution on the teeth (only available in your dentists office) and activating the bleach with a light. Four fifteen minute cycles are usually completed. Your dentist may also fabricate custom fitted trays and dispense professional strength bleach for you to use at home for regular touch ups. A sesame seed size dollop of bleach is placed in the at-home tray in the position of each tooth you desire to bleach.
Over the counter products are available with a low concentration of bleach. Many people express satisfaction with these products, though it may take a lot longer to see the results you want to achieve.
Q. How long does this take?
A. The in office procedure takes about 2 hours. At home professional grade bleach can be worn for 30 minutes to one hour daily until you see the results you like. Over the counter products are to be worn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q. How much does tooth whitening cost?
A. Each case is unique, and our prices our competitive. Ask us for any special offers when you call.
Q. What are the side effects?
A. Some people do experience side effects which include sharp pains during the procedure, often described as ”zingers.” For some people the ”zingers” can continue for a few days even after use of the bleaching product is discontinued. If the bleaching material comes in contact with the gums, it may cause gum discomfort and a white appearance of the gums which will return to normal within a few days.
Q. How to contact Dr. Johar if we have further questions?
A. Dr. Johar can be reached at her office (818) 558-4332.
