Factors like lifestyle habits, the natural aging process, or personal expectations for cosmetic appearance often lead people to explore teeth whitening options. Understanding when to initiate a conversation with your dental professional about specific treatments, like Kor whitening, can help you make an informed decision aligned with your goals. Discussing your desired outcome with a dentist provides an opportunity to review available systems and find a suitable approach.
What Causes Teeth Discoloration?
Understanding the source of discoloration is a foundational step in determining an appropriate course of action. Extrinsic stains affect the outer layer of the tooth, known as the enamel. These stains are typically caused by lifestyle factors. Common sources include pigmented foods and beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine. Tobacco use, whether from smoking or chewing, is another frequent cause of external yellow or brown stains.
Intrinsic stains originate from within the tooth structure, affecting the dentin layer beneath the enamel. This type of discoloration can result from several factors. The natural aging process is a primary cause, as enamel thins over time, revealing the more yellow dentin underneath. Certain medications can lead to deep, persistent staining. Trauma to a tooth that damages the nerve may also cause it to darken from the inside.
What Is Kor Whitening?
Kor Whitening is a professional teeth whitening system available through dental practices. It is a comprehensive treatment that typically combines in-office procedures with a prescribed at-home regimen. The system is designed to improve the appearance of a smile by addressing tooth discoloration. A key component of the system is the use of whitening trays, which are designed to create a seal around the teeth. This seal can help isolate the teeth from saliva during the at-home portion of the treatment. Dental practices that offer this system report noticeable changes in tooth shade for their patients.
What Does the Process Involve?
The KöR Whitening protocol follows a structured series of steps managed by a dental professional. The process begins with an initial assessment to determine if a patient is a suitable candidate for the treatment. During this appointment, the dentist will examine your oral health and establish a baseline shade of your teeth for comparison.
The dental team can then take impressions of your teeth to create your personalized whitening trays. These trays fit snugly over your teeth. The treatment then proceeds with a combination of in-office sessions and at-home applications.
During an in-office visit, your dentist will protect your gums and other soft tissues before applying the professional-strength whitening gel. The gel is usually applied in several cycles within a single appointment. For the at-home portion, you will receive your custom trays and a supply of the whitening gel. Your dentist will provide specific instructions on how to apply the gel and how long to wear the trays, which is often done while you sleep. Maintaining your results involves diligent oral hygiene and minimizing exposure to staining agents.
Confer With Your Dentist
Initiating a discussion with your dentist is the best way to determine if Kor Whitening or another professional whitening system aligns with your needs. This conversation can occur at any time, such as during a routine checkup, before a significant life event, or after you have made a lifestyle change, like quitting smoking. Your dental professional can provide personalized guidance based on your oral health and aesthetic goals.
