Teeth Whitening
There are three different methods for whitening teeth.
- Home Bleaching
- Ofis Bleaching
- Interior Whitening
What is Home Bleaching?
In this method, whitening trays are first prepared for the patient’s mouth based on measurements taken. At home, the patient applies a specific amount of whitening gel (10–15% carbamide peroxide) to these trays. The patient keeps the tray in their mouth over their teeth for the recommended period (3–5 days). In this method, the patient must take great care to protect their gums. The whitening gel must not spill onto or come into contact with the gums. Any spilled gel should be removed with a toothbrush.
What is Office Bleaching?
This is a teeth whitening method performed in the clinic. It is a suitable method for patients with time constraints. It provides effective whitening in a much shorter time. It is more expensive than the home-use type. The whitening gel applied to the teeth by the dentist is activated using UV light or laser, and whitening occurs within 1–2 hours.
What is Internal Whitening?
First, the quality of the root canal treatment is examined. If the root canal treatment is not good, it is repeated. The filling in the tooth is removed. Whitening gel is applied to the opened cavity. Then the tooth is tightly sealed with a temporary filling. The most important side effects are damage to the tissues surrounding the tooth and melting at the root tip. In some cases, discolored teeth may whiten more than adjacent teeth.
Are there any side effects of teeth whitening?
All teeth whitening methods can cause some sensitivity in the teeth. This sensitivity may even occur in response to air, very hot, and very cold foods. This is a normal and expected side effect. The sensitivity is usually expected to subside within 24-48 hours. If an unexpected situation arises, you should always consult your dentist.
How long does teeth whitening take?
Teeth whitening varies from person to person. While some teeth whiten in one or two days, others may take up to a month or two. The average whitening time is 2-3 weeks. The more yellowing or graying there is on the teeth, the more effective the whitening can be. Whitening is more difficult for graying caused by antibiotic use and may take longer to achieve results.
How long does teeth whitening last?
After whitening, the color gradually begins to fade. This process takes between 6 months and 1 year. It can be supported with 1 or 2 sessions every 4-6 months.
Does teeth whitening whiten porcelain?
All whitening procedures are planned and performed for natural teeth with enamel. Whitening procedures performed on porcelain veneers, crowns, and bridges are ineffective.
Can I drink coffee after whitening?
After whitening, it is recommended to avoid coloring agents such as coffee, cola, and wine for approximately two weeks.
Are teeth whitening results the same for everyone?
Teeth whitening results vary from person to person. The degree of whitening varies from person to person. Some teeth whiten in one or two days, while others may take up to a month or two. The more yellowing or graying the teeth have, the more effective the whitening process can be. Graying caused by antibiotic use is more difficult to whiten and may require a longer period to achieve results.
What causes teeth discoloration?
- Lifelong physiological discoloration
- Discoloration (amalgam) that occurs after the filling is placed
- Antibiotic use during tooth development, i.e., before they erupt
- Discoloration originating from inside the tooth due to root canal treatment
- Discoloration of the tooth surface due to the use of coffee, tea, tobacco, red wine, and long-term mouthwash use
- Discoloration caused by bleeding inside the tooth due to the death of living tissue inside the tooth as a result of trauma (injury).
In what situations is teeth whitening not recommended?
- Poor oral hygiene
- Tooth decay or large cavities
- If there is disease in the gums and periodontal tissues
- In patients with teeth grinding