Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the cosmetic dentistry treatments applied to visually improve people’s teeth. Due to various reasons, teeth lose their white color and partially or completely discoloration develops. This process can be performed professionally by dentists or with home bleaching methods. Although this cosmetically applied method is considered safe, it may also have risks due to the corrosive effects of the substances used. At the same time, it may not apply to everyone, as its effects will vary from person to person.

What is Teeth Whitening?

The teeth whitening process allows the teeth to regain their white color that has deteriorated over time. The level of whitening varies according to the structure of the tooth and the materials applied. Teeth whitening is an optional procedure and develops at the request of the person. Chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide are often used as whitening products, professional or not. However, the amount of these chemicals varies within the products. These substances, called bleach, are absorbed from the enamel layer of the tooth, reach the dentin, which is slightly softer than the enamel, and lighten the dark colors.

Why Does Teeth Lose Whiteness?

Dark spots can occur on tooth enamel for various reasons. These stains can develop inside or outside the tooth enamel. Stains inside tooth enamel are called intrinsic stains. Internal staining can sometimes occur in childhood before the teeth emerge from the gums. Also, stains can be due to antibiotic use, high levels of fluoride exposure, and the thinning of tooth enamel due to aging. External stains are on the outside of the tooth. These are caused by discoloration of tooth enamel due to environmental exposure. The loss of whiteness of the teeth from the outside can be caused by many reasons. Especially consuming certain foods and beverages such as coffee and tea, using tobacco, aging, the use of certain drugs such as antihistamines and chemotherapy are effective.

What are the Types of Teeth Whitening?

Although professional solutions are offered by dentists to whiten teeth, people may want to whiten non-serious stains themselves. Whitening results are not fully visible until about two weeks after bleaching.

Whitening Products

Whitening products are available in the form of whitening toothpaste and mouthwash. Whitening products may contain carbamide or hydrogen peroxide. However, these substances are not as intense as in professional whitening applications. At the same time, fluoride can be added to the content, aiming to minimize the damage to the tooth.

Home Teeth Whitening Kits

At-home whitening kits are available in gel or paste form. These products contain less amount of chemicals than professional ones. For this reason, whiteness can be achieved with more applications. However, these products are not as long-lasting as dental practices.

Professional Teeth Whitening

Chemicals applied by dentists contain high amounts of carbamide and hydrogen peroxide. Applied by a professional dentist, these chemicals are used for a fast and longer lasting effect. Professional teeth whitening may require several sessions depending on the amount of stains. Professional teeth whitening involves rinsing the teeth with a strong hydrogen peroxide solution for 20 to 30 minutes. After some applications, laser application can be made on the chemical to increase the permanence.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Teeth whitening can be considered safe when applied correctly. It is a procedure that is considered safe when performed and recommendations are followed by a professional dentist. The most common condition after the procedure is sensitivity. Whitening sensitivity does not last more than a day or two, but in some cases it can last up to a month. But commonly reported risks with teeth whitening include increased tooth sensitivity and mild gum irritation. The degree of these side effects is directly related to the concentration of the peroxide bleaching component, the duration of treatment and the non-bleaching composition of the product used. Tooth sensitivity usually occurs during treatment and can last for several days; Gum irritation begins within a day after treatment and may last for several days.

What are the Side Effects of Teeth Whitening?

The most common side effect of teeth whitening procedures is temporary tooth sensitivity. The hydrogen peroxide substance used in whitening products is one of the biggest reasons for this sensitivity. When teeth are whitened, gingiva should be protected during treatment to reduce side effects. However, when consuming hot and cold products, there may be sensitivity in the form of tingling in the teeth. Some abrasives can damage tooth enamel if used too often or for long periods of time. Side effects subside within 48 hours after the procedure. However, in rare cases, if symptoms persist or become more severe, a dentist should be contacted.

Are Natural Teeth Whitening Methods Harmful?

Natural teeth whitening methods have not been proven to be safe for humans. Natural products used to whiten teeth can cause severe gum irritation. It can also cause gradual weakening and peeling of tooth enamel. Once this basic protective layer is gone, it is inevitable that teeth will be more vulnerable to cavities and more susceptible to staining in the future. Many homemade teeth whitening agents can lighten teeth by just a shade or two. But if you do it wrong