TOOTH WHITENING

Healthy and white teeth are a significant aesthetic factor for many people. Tooth whitening procedures, which have become increasingly popular in recent years, are frequently performed by dentists to achieve a brighter smile. Tooth whitening involves the removal of colored organic and inorganic substances from the porous enamel surface of the teeth using whitening gels.

Why is Tooth Whitening Needed?

The appearance of teeth is important for those who prioritize personal care. Discoloration or irregularities in teeth can even lead to psychological discomfort. While natural whitening methods, such as using baking soda at home, are available, advancements in aesthetic and restorative dentistry have made it easier to address color, shape, and alignment issues. In addition to home methods like baking soda, whitening toothpastes, or whitening pens, dentists offer professional medical whitening treatments. Among these, bleaching is a more economical, simple, and less invasive option compared to other restorative methods.

Why Do Teeth Lose Their Whiteness?

Tooth discoloration can result from structural issues during tooth formation in childhood, exposure to certain antibiotics during infancy or in the womb, daily consumption of staining foods and drinks (e.g., cigarettes, tea, coffee), or high fluoride levels in drinking water.

Tooth discoloration is categorized into two types:

• Internal Discoloration: Stains that penetrate the tooth and cannot be removed by brushing. Structural defects during tooth formation (e.g., due to medications or excessive fluoride intake) fall into this category. Whitening is highly effective for most of these cases.
• External Discoloration: Stains on the tooth surface caused by substances like cigarettes, tea, coffee, or cola. These can often be removed through professional cleaning and polishing.

Different types of discoloration require different treatments, so it’s best to let your dentist determine the appropriate approach.

What Are the Tooth Whitening Methods?

Tooth whitening methods are divided into two types based on application technique:

• Power Bleaching (Office Whitening): Performed in a dental office within an hour, this method uses whitening gel and light to open the tooth color by 3-4 shades. It is the fastest, safest, and most effective whitening system.
• Home Bleaching: Involves custom-made plastic trays created from dental impressions. Whitening gel is placed in the trays, and the desired whitening is achieved in about 5-7 days, with daily wear of 4-8 hours (depending on the gel and discoloration).

Can Everyone Get Tooth Whitening?

Anyone without significant dental or gum issues can undergo tooth whitening, but a dental examination is required beforehand. Those with advanced cavities or gum disease must complete necessary treatments before whitening. Whitening is not recommended for individuals whose growth and development are incomplete, pregnant women, or breastfeeding mothers.

Is Tooth Whitening Safe, or Does It Harm Teeth?

Research and microscopic studies show no harm from using a 10% whitening solution. There is no evidence of structural changes or permanent damage to teeth from whitening. Different concentrations of whitening agents may be used, but their application and duration should always be determined by a dentist.

Do Teeth Whiten Equally for Everyone?

Whitening results vary depending on the tooth’s structure, so not everyone achieves the same level of whitening.

What Are the Side Effects of Tooth Whitening?

All whitening gels cause some degree of tooth sensitivity, which may be triggered by hot, cold, or air exposure, causing discomfort. This is a normal and expected side effect. If sensitivity persists beyond 24-48 hours, whitening should be discontinued. Your dentist may apply fluoride or recommend toothpastes or creams to reduce sensitivity. Toothpastes containing potassium nitrate can also help alleviate discomfort.

How Long Does the Whitening Effect Last?

The duration of whitening results depends on the individual’s tooth structure, typically lasting 6 months to 2 years. This duration also depends on the patient’s habits. During and for at least two weeks after whitening, staining substances should be avoided.

If you’re concerned about the color of your teeth, consult your dentist for a whitening treatment. After an examination, if your teeth are deemed suitable, the procedure can be performed promptly.