Structural defects that occur during the formation of teeth in childhood, some antibiotics exposed during infancy or in the womb, foods and beverages consumed in daily life (colored 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: These are the colorations that adhere to the tooth surface from some colored foods such as cigarettes, tea, coffee and cola. Mostly, it is possible to get rid of these stains after dental calculus cleaning.
Teeth whitening methods are divided into two different types according to the application technique:
Power Bleaching(Office 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.
Teeth whitening at home (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).
Anyone who does not have any tooth or gum disease that interferes with the process can have teeth whitening treatment. Those who have advanced caries and gum disease in their mouth should have the whitening process applied after their treatment. In addition, it is not recommended to apply teeth whitening to people who have not completed their growth and development, pregnant women and nursing mothers.
If you don't bite aggressively with your front teeth, it will last longer. However, it should be noted that it is not as long-lasting as porcelain teeth.
There is not even a single study showing that structural changes and permanent damage occur in teeth due to teeth whitening.
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.
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 and also temporary condition. 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 an alternative to reduce sensitivity.
The result of 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. Materials that stain teeth should be avoided for at least two weeks during and after whitening.