Deep Pocket

I have a deep pocket. My dentist did a special treatment to get it clean, but I’m wondering what else I can do?

Jenna- Baltimore

Jenna,

First, your dentist will probably do a deep cleaning every three months or so until it is completely under control. Usually a deep cleaning will get things under control for you to take over from there. What you’ll have to do is make sure you brush and floss thoroughly and regularly.

If those things don’t get it under control you may need to have a crown lengthening done with a periodontist, though some dentists know how to do this procedure themselves.

You might be interested in learning about Laser Dentistry.

This blog is brought to you by Gilbert Dentist Dr. Matt Roper.

Can I bleach my teeth with clorox?

I’ve been using whitening toothpaste for months now and my teeth are no whiter. I really want to whiten my teeth, so I’m wondering if I can use my bleach at home, like Clorox?

Anthony P.- Miami, FL

Anthony,

The ingredient that dentists use to whiten your teeth is not bleach. Bleach will actually poison you, so under no circumstances should you use Clorox. In small amounts, bleach can remove moisture from your teeth. That will cause them to weaken and become brittle. Small amounts also causes vomiting and stomach irritation. Larger amounts act as a poison causing heart issues, shock, and death.

The whitening toothpastes cannot do a deep whitening, like you can get from your dentist’s office. The most it can do is remove surface stains. If your stains are below the surface you will not be satisfied with anything but professional results.

My suggestion is that you go to your dentist and ask for professional teeth whitening. The gel they use will oxidize  your teeth from the inside out, eliminating all your stains and giving you a bright, white smile.

This blog is brought to you by Gilbert Dentist Dr. Matt Roper.