Optimizing Whitening Treatment
The Roundtable video series is a forum for discussion and debate on key topics, trends, and techniques in dentistry. For each edition, Inside Dentistry's editor-in-chief, Robert C. Margeas, DDS, and a panel of experts examine a subject to help expand your knowledge and improve your practice. This month, our panel looks at some of the latest advances in teeth whitening.
The discussion begins with the panel talking about the tooth sensitivity that can accompany whitening treatment. Joyce Basset, DDS, provides her patients with desensitizing gel, has them using toothpaste that helps decrease sensitivity, and tells them to use a lower concertation of whitening gel for less time if sensitivity develops. Amanda Seay, DDS, agrees with those protocols. "I tell my patients that the two greatest factors in the success of whitening are the strength of the bleach and the length of time that the bleach is in contact with the teeth; however, those are also the two greatest factors in causing sensitivity," she says.
Troy Schmedding, DDS, who also uses those protocols, emphasizes that it is important to tackle sensitivity early on to avoid losing patients' trust.
Next, the panel discusses the measures, products, and techniques that they use to help their patients retain the longevity of their whitening results. Seay suggests that her patients use an electric toothbrush and encourages them to rinse after eating or drinking anything with the potential to stain teeth. In addition to offering recommendations, Schmedding says that he flags his whitening patients so that he can ensure that they keep up with their maintenance regimen. Bassett encourages her patients to keep up with their routine by showing them images of their tooth color during appointments.
After the conversation turns to patient expectations about in-office whitening, during which the three panelists express differing views on the best whitening protocols and how to handle chair time, the panel concludes with a discussion about what constitutes a good whitening patient.
Watch the full video on AEGIS TV at aegistv.com.
What You'll Learn
The treatment options for sensitivity and other potential complications
Advances in whitening technology, including at-home and in-office options
How to use whitening as a practice builder
Meet the Panel
Joyce Bassett, DDS, is an accredited fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and maintains a private practice in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Amanda Seay, DDS, is an accredited fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and maintains a private practice in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina.
Troy Schmedding, DDS, is an accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and maintains a private practice in Walnut Creek, California.
