Teeth Whitening (Bleaching)
Teeth whitening is a method used to whiten teeth that have changed color for various reasons or to lighten the color of individual teeth by a few tones. It is a very practical solution for people who are not satisfied with the color of their teeth, as they can see the result immediately.
The natural color of teeth darkens over the years, due to external factors and our eating and drinking habits. With the teeth whitening process, which can be done in the office or at home, the teeth are lightened by 2 – 10 tones and a satisfactory whitening and a beautiful smile is obtained. Bleaching must be applied under professional control.
Whitening is applied in two ways:
1. Office Bleaching
It is a form of treatment that is performed in a clinical environment by the physician applying the whitening gel and the light source that activates this gel and lasts approximately 1 hour in total with 15 minute sessions. During the application, your gums are protected with a special barrier material and the whitening gel is applied to your teeth and activated with a light source. Your dentist may prescribe various solutions and special toothpastes to prevent sensitivity and maintain the whiteness after the application.
2. Home Bleaching
Home bleaching is a method where teeth whitening is done at home instead of a clinic. Personalized aligners are prepared with a simple impression taken from the mouth. The trays containing whitening gel are worn for 4 – 8 hours a day depending on the color of the teeth, and the desired whitening is achieved in an average of 10 – 15 days.
During use, coloring agents (tea, coffee, cigarettes, wine, medical mouthwashes, etc.) should be avoided as much as possible . The process may need to be repeated from time to time for color permanence.
Is there any harm in teeth whitening?
Whitening is a harmless and very effective methodwhen performed by a physician who is familiar with the procedure .Mild or moderate sensitivity may occur during or after the whitening procedure. This sensitivity will disappear completely within 1 to 2 days.
What are the differences between Office Bleaching and Home Bleaching?
The effect of home bleaching is much lower than in the clinic . Your dentist may also recommend Home Bleaching as a secondary application after Office Bleaching for the permanence of whiteness.
What other types of discoloration can be removed with teeth whitening?
- Congenital coloration
- Discoloration due to prolonged use of antibiotics
- Discoloration due to excessive fluorine intake
- Coloration that may occur after root canal treatment
- Coloration that may occur as a result of trauma
- Coloration that may occur as a result of old age
Is teeth whitening the same as removing stains from the tooth surface?
It is not the same process. These stains are discolorations on the outer surface of the tooth and can be removed by mechanical cleaning. If bleaching is to be performed, these stains on the outer surface of the tooth must be removed before the bleaching process.
What kind of foods should be avoided after teeth whitening?
Consumption of colored foods such as coffee, cola, tea and wine and smoking should be reduced.
