Trayless tooth whitening system: e.g. for bleaching teeth adjacent to veneers

When discoloured anterior teeth are restored with veneers, the neighbouring teeth and the antagonists usually need to be whitened as a consequence. A number of aspects need to be taken into account in order to achieve a harmonious overall appearance.

Bleaching trays are not always optimal

Various tooth whitening options are available. The most popular method involves the use of a tray. Nevertheless, this approach has its drawbacks in situations where only certain teeth need to be treated:

• All teeth are treated the same – irrespective of their degree of staining.
• The bleaching agent may not properly reach certain areas if teeth are crooked.

Varnish system for selective whitening

Today, an alternative to the traditional tray application method is available. In problematic situations such as those mentioned above, a varnish system provides an effective solution. It allows individual teeth to be selectively lightened. The varnish is applied only on the teeth that require treatment. In cases where a tooth is considerably darker than its neighbours, it can be individually retreated if the initial whitening process produced inadequate results. The other teeth do not need to be exposed to another whitening treatment.

Water-insoluble varnishes effectively adhere to the teeth

In contrast to tooth whitening gels that are applied with a brush or pen, water-insoluble varnishes effectively adhere to the teeth. Unlike gel products, varnishes do not dissolve in saliva. Therefore, the active ingredients can take effect immediately. This has a positive effect on the result.

VivaStyle Paint On Plus is one such professional trayless varnish system. It whitens vital and devitalized teeth. The varnish is painted on the teeth with a brush. It can be applied multiples times during one treatment session. The product can be used to lighten individual teeth, rows of teeth and even crooked teeth.The varnish contains 6% hydrogen peroxide.

Professional tip on how to obtain the best results

In cases where you have restored anterior teeth with veneers and intend to lighten neighbouring teeth and antagonists, you must observe the following sequence:

• First, lighten the neighbouring and adjacent teeth and establish their whitening potential.
• If restorations are planned, at least two weeks should elapse between the whitening treatment and the bonding procedure.
• If you are planning to place restorations in the anterior teeth, at least two weeks should elapse before they are placed in order to make sure that the tooth colour has stabilized after the whitening treatment.
• The shade of veneers should be selected only after this period.

Case study and professional tip: whitening of the severely stained tooth 32

A recent case study by Dr Roberto Turrini (Italy) addressed the topic of trayless whitening. In this case, the neighbouring teeth and antagonists of two anterior teeth that were to receive veneers had to be lightened. Tooth 32 presented a particular challenge because it was much darker than the other teeth.