Most people love a beautiful, gleaming smile. Brighter, whiter teeth are an ideal way to enhance a smile. It’s not a surprise that tooth whitening is the most in-demand cosmetic dental procedure, with Americans spending almost $2 billion yearly to add sparkle in their mouth. Teeth change color due to tobacco use, age, medications drinks such as coffee. This article will explore different stains and how teeth whitening works.
How Teeth Whitening Works
As the name suggests, teeth whitening is a process that helps to make teeth look whiter. The procedure uses bleaching and non-bleaching whitening products. As dentists, we will recommend the best whitening option for you. Unlike over the counter whitening option, we supervise the whole procedure to ensure there are no complications.
Typically, it takes about one hour to perform professional teeth whitening procedures. The process involves applying whitening gel on a tooth. The gel contains 25 % to 40 % hydrogen peroxide. A heating lamp or laser is aimed at the teeth for 20 minutes intervals. During the heating procedure, a protective barrier is used to protect the gums and tongue from the gel.
Below is a typical step by step process of in-office whitening:
- A dentist starts by making a record of the current teeth shade
- Then, the tooth is polished using a pumice
- The dentist uses gauze to isolate the moth and keep the teeth dry. Retractors may be used to protect the tongue, lips, and cheeks from the whitening solution
- A barrier is lined along the gum line to protect it from the whitening solution
- The front surface of the tooth is coated with a whitening solution. The solution contains a bleaching agent, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide
- A laser or curing light is usually used to activate the peroxide. After applying the solution, we leave it for about 30 to 60 minutes. Some brands require reapplying the solution occasionally
- The next step is rinsing the teeth after attaining optimum shade or lapse of the maximum period. The dentist may apply fluoride to ease tooth sensitivity
- Follow up sessions are scheduled until you attain the desired shade. The dentist may suggest home whitening trays for continued treatment and a complete whitening process.
Stains that are Best Eliminated Using Teeth Whitening
Teeth stains vary significantly. Toothpaste, strips, gels, and other over the counter products can help eliminate red wine stains, coffee stains, and other everyday discoloration and stains. However, most stains can’t be removed using over the counter surface whitening products. It is best if you opt for professional teeth whitening treatments.
Surfaces stains are usually caused by tea, smoking, coffee, and sauces. Stains caused by diet are best removed using professional teeth whitening treatments. The treatment contains high-grade whitening agents that can’t be accessed over the counter.
Dentist’s office teeth whitening is best for stains caused by enamel wear and tear. However, surface whitening treatments are not suitable for teeth restored through crowns, bonding, porcelain veneer, and other cosmetic dental treatments.
Types of Stains
There are two main types of stains intrinsic and extrinsic stains.
Intrinsic Stains
Intrinsic stains are characterized by brown, yellow, or gray color caused by demineralization and fluorosis. The stains are located on the dentin and can be lightened by chemical bleaching or mechanical removal. Since whitening treatments cannot lighten these stains, the best method is crowns or bonding.
Extrinsic stains
Extrinsic stains are located on the enamel and likely to occur due to poor oral hygiene habits. The staining agent does not adhere to the tooth surface; instead, plaque incorporates the stains. Extrinsic stains can be brown, green, yellow, black, or orange. These stains are relatively easy to remove.
Age-Related Stains
Usually, these stains are caused by enamel getting thin and darkening dentin. The treatment must clean deep inside the dentin to get rid of the stains.
In Conclusion
Our lifestyles, habits, diet, and even medications put our teeth at risk of staining. The good news is that professional teeth whitening procedure can eradicate the stain and improve your smile. However, the effectiveness of each treatment depends on the cause of the stain. If the bleaching method does not attain the desired result, you can always opt for bonding, creams, and veneers.
FAQs
To begin bleaching your teeth, simply apply the gel to the custom-made tray, then wear the tray for the designated amount of time. As you consistently wear your bleaching trays, your teeth can gradually and dramatically improve in color and shine.
How do they whiten your teeth at the dentist? ›
The front surface of the tooth is coated with a whitening solution. The solution contains a bleaching agent, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. A laser or curing light is usually used to activate the peroxide. After applying the solution, we leave it for about 30 to 60 minutes.
How painful is teeth whitening at the dentist? ›
I want to get my teeth whitened but am worried about pain
The good news about teeth whitening is that the treatment itself doesn't cause any pain whatsoever, so you can rest easy.
How long is a teeth whitening session at the dentist? ›
The length of professional teeth whitening depends on the dentist you choose, how many shades the patients want to lighten their smile, and other factors. In general, it typically takes anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes.
How good is teeth whitening at dentist? ›
Talk to your dentist about which teeth whitening methods or products work well and are safe for your teeth and oral health. In-office whitening is highly effective, safe, and long-lasting. But it's more expensive than over-the-counter options, and often isn't covered by dental insurance.
How long does it take for dentist teeth whitening to work? ›
Depending on the level of your staining and the type of whitening procedure you have done, you may be able to see results in about a week or two. To reach your desired whiteness, it may take about three weeks to a month. To maintain the shade, you will need to go for touch-up treatments or use prescribed home kits.
How long does teeth whitening last? ›
The most effective way to whiten your teeth is professional teeth whitening treatment applied by your dentist in the office. The results of this type of treatment can last between 1 and 3 years. In-office teeth whitening involves the following process: The gum tissue is protected from the effects of the bleaching gel.
How long will my gums stay white after teeth whitening? ›
Soft tissue or gum irritation caused by teeth whitening gel is considered a chemical burn, very comparable to a sunburn. When a chemical burn occurs, the area becomes mildly sore, turns white, and will eventually flake off. The tissue will return to normalcy within twenty-four hours.
How long after teeth whitening can I eat normally? ›
When the dentist whitens teeth, your teeth can become sensitive to different foods that can stain. After 24-72 hours, you can resume your regular diet. The following are the things that you need to avoid after teeth whitening. Sugary foods can irritate your teeth and trigger the bacteria responsible for causing decay.
How often should you get your teeth professionally whitened? ›
Professional teeth whitening performed in the dentist's office is recommended once every year to every 18 months, depending on how long the results last. At-home kits can be used as often as once every four to six months.
Schedule an appointment with our dentist in Gainesville for more information or a consultation about your specific concerns.
- Tooth sensitivity. ...
- Doesn't work on all teeth. ...
- May exacerbate certain conditions. ...
- Temporary. ...
- Don't use if you're pregnant.
Professional teeth whitening uses a more effective process
This means that the hydrogen peroxide content of your at-home kit is very low, whether you are using toothpaste, liquid filled trays, or strips. Dr. Yalamanchili is able to use a stronger process in her office, typically approved for use by dentists only.
What are the side effects of teeth whitening? ›
The potential side effects of teeth whitening include teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, and ineffective results. However, most patients do not experience any notable side effects from professional teeth whitening, as the dentist can monitor the process and perform treatment in a way that minimizes risk.
Can dentist clean yellow teeth? ›
Yellow teeth greatly affect aesthetics, causing loss of confidence when communicating. However, you do not need to worry too much about yellowing teeth, because yellow teeth can be completely whitened by modern dental methods and technologies.
How long does it take to whiten your teeth with trays from the dentist? ›
In regards to how long trays need to be worn, patients should expect to wear them until the teeth have reached the right shade of white. In some cases, it can take a few weeks or for serious stains, it can take up to a year.
Does cleaning your teeth at the dentist make them whiter? ›
The short answer is: no. It's important to clarify that these deep cleanings alone do not directly whiten your teeth. Professional cleanings focus on removing plaque, tartar, and surface stains, which can definitely improve the appearance of your smile and give your teeth a cleaner and brighter appearance.
Does teeth whitening surgery hurt? ›
Some dental patients typically don't feel hurt while they're having the procedure done since all they need to do is sit back and relax while the bleaching agent does its work. Although most patients report minimal to no pain when it comes to teeth whitening, everyone experiences it differently.
