Teeth Whitening (Bleaching)

Teeth Whitening Procedure and Methods

Teeth whitening is the process of lightening the colored deposits in the porous structure of teeth using an oxygen-derived whitening gel. Because yellowing and discoloration of teeth can be distressing, this method can easily lighten them. It is recommended that individuals with existing tooth decay and gum disease have these conditions treated before undergoing teeth whitening. It is recommended that minors, pregnant women, and breastfeeding women avoid teeth whitening.

Many people want to change the natural color of their teeth to achieve a more beautiful appearance. It’s perfectly normal for those who are bothered by the discoloration of their teeth caused by long-term food consumption to seek teeth whitening. Many people find this procedure difficult. However, it can be done both at home and in the dentist’s office. While at-home teeth whitening isn’t as effective as in-office whitening, it still results in a change in tooth color. Clinical treatment by a dentist will definitely achieve the desired results.

What are the reasons for teeth color change?

Tooth discoloration can occur due to structural defects in teeth, antibiotics used in utero or childhood, and fluoride found in water. Stains that penetrate deep into the tooth structure and cannot be removed by brushing are called intrinsic tooth discoloration. Teeth whitening is partially effective for those with such problems. Discoloration on the outer surfaces of teeth, caused by various factors such as food, smoking, tea, and coffee, is called extrinsic discoloration. First, the removal of tartar and then the whitening process will restore the desired whiteness to your teeth. Your dentist will determine the best way to remove tooth discoloration.

What are the teeth whitening methods?

Power bleaching: This procedure, performed by your doctor, takes approximately 10 minutes. The whitening gel and light used allow teeth to be lightened by 5-6 shades, effectively whitening teeth. If the desired shade is not reached, a second 10-minute treatment will achieve the desired shade.
Home bleaching: This method, which you can do yourself at home, whitens your teeth using gels applied through custom-made mouthpieces. This method takes 5-7 days, and by the end of this period, your teeth will have reached the desired whiteness. The mouthpieces should be worn for 4-8 hours a night during the procedure.

Are there any side effects of teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening products containing a 10% whitening solution are harmless. However, the whitening gels used are known to cause some sensitivity. Some sensitivity to hot and cold may occur for a while after application. If sensitivity persists within 24 hours, it is recommended to discontinue the teeth whitening products. In this case, consult your dentist and use the fluoride creams, creams, and toothpastes they recommend. Toothpastes containing potassium nitrate are effective in relieving tooth sensitivity.

How long does the effect of teeth whitening last?

The effects of teeth whitening can last between six months and two years, depending on individual dental conditions. Whitening results are longer lasting for those who prioritize good dental hygiene and healthy eating habits. It’s recommended to avoid foods that can discolor teeth for at least two weeks after the whitening procedure. Avoiding excessive consumption of foods and beverages that can negatively impact teeth color, such as cigarettes, tea, coffee, and wine, after teeth whitening treatment will help ensure longer-lasting results.

How does teeth whitening work?

Before teeth whitening, your dentist will perform an oral examination. During this examination, any fillings, cavities, porcelain veneers, and cracks in the enamel will be identified. The teeth whitening process does not damage any of the fillings or porcelain. During this process, the fluid in the tubules that gives teeth their color is displaced by the fluid in the medication used. The procedure does not cause any damage to the teeth.

Why should teeth be whitened?

Teeth can be whitened for a more beautiful smile, to boost self-confidence, to achieve a more youthful appearance, or for a job interview, wedding, or special occasion. People always want a beautiful smile. However, discoloration of their teeth may not allow this. Natural tooth color is affected over time by various factors. The causes of stains and internal yellowing of teeth include:

• From the natural aging process
• Tobacco use, drinking tea, coffee, cola or wine, or consuming highly pigmented foods such as blackberries and cherries
• Accumulation of plaque and tartar deposits on teeth
• Excessive fluoride intake, which causes a mottled appearance on teeth
• Application of antibiotic tetracycline treatment during childhood
• Traumas that may cause gray, brown or black color on teeth

There are many reasons for whitening your teeth. The most important ones are:

• A beautiful smile increases one’s self-confidence
• The desire to look younger
  Special meetings, business meetings or weddings
• The desire to make a positive first impression on other people
• Teeth whitening may be considered to remove yellowing, deposits and stains that have accumulated on teeth over the years.

How much can teeth be whitened?

Even just two or three shades of whiter teeth can make a significant difference in your smile. Some people desire a sudden and dramatic change in their teeth, while others prefer a gradual whitening. The effectiveness of teeth whitening varies depending on the natural color of your teeth, the stubbornness of any stains, and the type of whitening treatment chosen. Enamel can vary during the teeth whitening process. While some areas may lighten by 2-3 shades, others may lighten by 5-6 shades. In such cases, a second application can achieve the desired shade. In-office teeth whitening can achieve 6-7 shades of whiter teeth. The active ingredients in the bleaching agents used during this process whiten the teeth. The percentage of these ingredients varies between 10-22%. Light whitening, one of the in-office teeth whitening methods, offers more economical and faster results. This treatment is categorized by the color of the light used.

• LED light method: This method provides whiteness in the enamel layer.
• Blue light method: Whitens the enamel layer of the tooth.
• Green light laser method: Whitens the enamel layer inside the tooth.

Does teeth whitening cause pain?

The likelihood of experiencing tooth pain during a teeth whitening procedure is very low. However, a tingling sensation may occur due to the oxygen-derived gels, which are rarely used, seeping into the gums. A burning sensation may be felt when the gel touches the gums. However, this subsides quickly. In fact, a gum protector is applied before the procedure to prevent the gel from affecting the gums. Mild sensitivity may occur for a day after the whitening procedure. To mitigate this, it is recommended to use fluoride toothpaste after the procedure. Sensitivity is felt even in hot and cold temperatures. Therefore, this is considered normal after teeth whitening. For at-home applications, if this sensitivity persists for 2-4 days, discontinue use of bleach. Additionally, use toothpastes containing potassium nitrate. Teeth whitening can be easily performed by anyone.