Teeth Whitening: Suitable for Seniors

Teeth Whitening: Suitable For Seniors 

Advertising for teeth whitening frequently features young people, laughing and smiling, teeth sparkling in the sunlight.  Older people are more likely to be seen promoting denture fixative, so it’s no surprise that we query whether whitening actually works on ‘senior’ teeth.  

Just like any other treatment, teeth whitening works if it is given by a dentist, and in the UK, that means someone who is qualified and registered with the General Dental Council.  And like any other patient, your mouth will be examined so that your dentist is satisfied that there is no barrier to using whitening on your teeth.

Why Do Teeth Go Yellow As We Get Older?

Looking into why teeth yellow with time and age is a great way to start if you are interested in teeth whitening or have concerns about the ageing of your teeth. 

Essentially, our teeth consist of two layers – with dentin as the inner layer. This layer surrounds the nerve and blood supply. Enamel refers to the outer layer. Enamel is entirely composed of minerals – and is actually the toughest substance in our body!  It is constructed from crystals of pure calcium and phosphorus. Our enamel’s phosphorus crystals reflect and refract light – and teeth exhibit some translucence as a result of this.

As proteins bind to your enamel and alter the crystals’ ability to transmit light, your teeth will eventually turn yellow. This is a completely natural and normal process, and even individuals who are committed to brushing their teeth thoroughly will eventually see their teeth becoming yellower as they get older.

What are the options?

According to research, teeth whitening can be done at any stage of a patient’s maturity, and standard products for teeth whitening can be used. These remove embedded stains and brighten the enamel. 

Whitening Toothpaste:

Teeth whitening is caused by proteins that bind to your enamel and alter how the crystals of your enamel reflect light. Using over the counter whitening toothpaste is a way to help you whiten yellowed teeth. However, whitening toothpastes contain very low-concentration bleach, so it takes quite a while before there is any perceivable change . 

Bleaching Trays:

You can buy bleaching trays from a dentist or from a store. These bleaching trays, as opposed to bleaching toothpaste, contain a form of hydrogen peroxide that is more concentrated. It is advised that you purchase your bleaching trays from your dentist because those trays can be created in a lab and specially tailored to fit your mouth. This is also a quicker method of teeth whitening for stained teeth, because the strength of the whitening product is greater, when provided by a dentist, than those you can buy in stores.

When looking into bleaching trays, elders should think about their overall oral health while choosing whitening products.  The best way to whiten teeth safely is by visiting your dentist, rather than tryiing over-the-counter whitening solutions.

Sensitive Teeth:

Anyone interested in teeth whitening should be aware that bleaching can make teeth more sensitive. Also, drinks like red wine and coffee should not be consumed while teeth are being whitened.  Be guided by your dentist, who has a professional interest in knowing you’ll be happy with the result of your treatment.

Senior Citizens’ Professional Dentistry:

The most effective way to get your teeth whitened safely, especially as a senior citizen, is to make an appointment with your dentist.  There is no denying that this is more expensive than buying whitening trays and toothpaste tubes from the shop, but it is also often safer and more efficient.

Before you start treatment, a dentist with experience in seniors’ dentistry will be able to evaluate any underlying health issues. Your dental expert will provide advice on any complications that prevent you from whitening right away.

Your dentist can help you decide the best course of action and let you have a price for the teeth whitening during a consultation. You can whiten your teeth and protect your enamel by using your whitening trays or touch-up kit in accordance with your dentist’s instructions. Whenever in doubt, seek the advice of experts, and if you have any problems with the treatments that you have been given, be sure to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.