Teeth Whitening
Healthy and white teeth are an element of great aesthetic importance among people. Teeth whitening procedures applied to have whiter teeth are the treatments frequently applied by dentists in recent years. Teeth whitening; It is the process of removing colored, organic and inorganic substances formed in the porous enamel structure on the surface of the teeth with tooth whitening gels.
Why is Teeth Whitening Needed?
The appearance of the teeth is important for people who take care of their personal care. Shape and color disorders in teeth can even cause psychological disorders. In addition to natural methods that can be applied at home using herbal methods, many color, shape and position disorders can be easily resolved thanks to the development of aesthetic and restorative materials in dentistry. There are some applications such as tooth whitening with baking soda at home, the use of products such as whitening toothpastes and whitening pens, as well as some medical whitening treatments applied by dentists. Among these, the bleaching method of discolored teeth is more economical, easy and effortless compared to other restorative methods.
Why Do Teeth Lose Their Whiteness?
Structural disorders that occur during the formation of teeth in childhood, some antibiotics exposed during infancy, food and beverages consumed in daily life (dyeing substances such as cigarettes, tea and coffee) and the amount of fluoride in drinking water can cause discoloration on the teeth.
This color change in the teeth is divided into two:
Internal discoloration: These are stains that have penetrated into the tooth and cannot be removed by brushing. Structural disorders that occur during the formation of teeth (due to drugs or excessive fluoride intake, etc.) are also included in this class. The bleaching process is very successful in most of these cases.
External Coloration: Coloring that adheres to the tooth surface from some coloring foods such as cigarettes, tea, coffee and cola. Mostly, it is possible to get rid of these stains after dental calculus cleaning.
Different colorations require different treatments. For this reason, it is best for your dentist to decide what type of treatment should be done.
What Are The Teeth Whitening Methods?
Teeth whitening methods are divided into two different types according to the application technique:
Power Bleaching performed within an hour in an office environment; It is the fastest, safest and most effective whitening system, consisting of whitening gel and light, that can lighten teeth 3-4 shades in a short time.
Home Bleaching; It is the whitening process done by putting gels into plastic mouthpieces prepared specially for the person with a simple measure taken from the mouth. Desired whitening is achieved in an average of 5-7 days. It needs to be worn 4-8 hours a day (depending on the color and gel).
Can Anyone Have Teeth Whitening?
Anyone who does not have any tooth or gum disease that interferes with the process can have whitening treatment, but a dentist must be examined before whitening. Those who have advanced caries and gum disease in their mouth should have the whitening process applied after they have been treated by their physician. Apart from this, it is not recommended to apply whitening to people who have not completed their growth and development, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe Or Will It Damage The Teeth?
Researches and microscopic studies showed that there is no harm in using 10 percent bleaching solution. There is not even a single study showing that structural changes and permanent damage to the teeth occur due to teeth whitening. Different concentrations of drugs can also be used to whiten teeth, but the dentist must decide how and how much to use them.
Do Teeth Whiten At The Same Rate For Everyone?
Teeth whitening treatment does not give the same results for everyone; How much the tooth color will lighten depends on the structure of the tooth.
What Are The Side Effects Of Teeth Whitening?
All whitening gels cause more or less sensitivity in the teeth. This sensitivity to cold-hot drinks and air can cause discomfort to people. This is a normal and expected side effect of procedure. If the sensitivity does not go away within 24-48 hours, the use of bleach may need to be discontinued. In case of sensitivity, fluoride that your dentist will apply and toothpaste or creams that he will recommend to you will reduce this tooth sensitivity. Toothpastes containing potassium nitrate can also be used as another option to reduce sensitivity.
How Long Does The Effect Of Whitening Last?
The result obtained from the whitening process varies depending on the tooth structure of the person and remains constant between 6 months and 2 years. Of course, this period also depends on the person himself. During and after whitening, substances that stain the teeth should be avoided for at least two weeks.
If you are having problems with the color of your teeth, you can apply to your dentist for teeth whitening treatment, and if your teeth are found suitable for whitening as a result of the examination, you can have your procedure done as soon as possible.
