Expert: Benjamin Schwartz, DDS FAGD - 11/3/2008

Question
Hi! Due to a crazy schedule and a dentist who recently took time off to get married I have had a temporary bridge in for 8 months it has yellowed terribly. I will be having the next visit in approx a month but in the mean time is there anything I can do to whiten my temp? I am a sales rep and this is a distraction.

Answer
Hi Suzie,

As you noticed, the temps do pick up discolorations quite easily.
Unfortunately, there is no real way to fix it without redoing the temps. A dentist may be able to polish them up a bit, so they won't be as yellow. Or, a layer of bonding material can be placed over the top surface to give a lighter appearance.

You should definitely brush them as you would normal teeth. You can also try to use a Q-tip with a little rubbing alcohol to get some of the surface stains off. That should help a tad. However, there is no at-home remedy for this entirely. :(

See if the hygienist is in the office. If so, he/she may be able to polish them up a little bit for you.

Good luck!!