Genetic tendencies, the use of certain medications, the accumulation of plaque, external factors (tea, coffee, cigarettes, etc.) and aging may all contribute to the discoloration of the teeth over time. For teeth that have become discoloured, whilst some surface staining can be removed with regular brushing and hygienist appointments, more serious staining can be removed with the help of teeth whitening procedures. There are 2 types of teeth bleaching processes; home bleaching and office bleaching.
What Is Office Type Whitening?
Office based whitening is the fastest and most effective method of teeth whitening. It is carried out by a dentist in the clinic by applying a whitening agent to the patient’s teeth. The dentist begins whitening by applying a protective gel to the gums to protect the patient’s gums and surrounding soft tissues. The whitening agent is then applied to the teeth and is activated by light application (blue light) or chemically activated. Depending on the patient’s and physician’s preference, the bleaching process can be repeated in one or two sessions. Each session consists of 3 fifteen minutes applications. The biggest advantage of this type of treatment is that the result of the whitening process can be seen immediately within just 30-45 minutes.
What Is Home Type Whitening?
Custom made transparent mouth plates are prepared by taking measurements (impressions) from the patient’s mouth. Whitening gels issues by the dentist are squeezed into the prepared plates and must be worn by the patient for 3-4 hours per day. The duration of the whitening process varies according to the intensity of the tooth discolouration, the initial colour of the tooth, the anticipated tone of the tooth colour and the sensitivity that may occur in the teeth.
Which Teeth Can Be Treated?
- For yellow or brown teeth,
- Teeth than have yellowed or discoloured due to external factors (cigarette, tea, coffee, etc.)
- Slightly yellow and grey teeth due to antibiotic (tetracycline) use
- Darker coloured teeth (devital teeth) that have lost their vitality
- Teeth with fluorosis that have not lost their enamel
In Which Cases Should Whitening Procedures Not Be Applied?
- In pregnant or nursing women
- In people with significant tooth sensitivity
- Those with worn and damaged teeth (teeth with excessive enamel loss)
- Those with allergies to peroxide and/or latex
- Teeth whitening should also not be applied to people who are receiving chemotherapy and radiotherapy