Teeth whitening is a procedure performed to remove stains or discolorations on the surface of teeth. It is possible to perform this procedure using different techniques and materials. The method frequently preferred among these methods is the office type whitening (Office bleaching)
What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure performed to lighten and whiten teeth. This procedure is necessary due to reasons such as the loss of natural color of teeth, the consumption of foods that cause staining such as coffee, tea, cigarettes or red wine, teeth yellowing due to aging or the use of certain medications.
What are Teeth Whitening Methods?
Teeth whitening procedure can be performed using different methods and materials. These methods are as follows:
- Home teeth whitening (Home bleaching) : It is a whitening procedure performed at home using a teeth whitening kit specially prepared by a dentist. This method is usually applied for several hours a day for 2-4 weeks.
- Office whitening (Office bleaching) : This method is a procedure performed by a dentist, in which the teeth whitening gel is applied to the teeth and activated with a special light source. The procedure usually takes about an hour.
- Internal tooth whitening (Endo bleaching) : It is performed by applying a whitening gel to the inside of the tooth. Internal whitening is used to remove dark discolorations on teeth.
The results of teeth whitening can vary depending on the person's dental health status, tooth color and whitening method. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a dentist before the procedure.
What is Office Type Whitening (Office Bleaching)
Office type whitening is a teeth whitening procedure performed by a dentist. In this procedure, the dentist applies a special whitening gel and activates this gel with a special light source. The light enhances the effect of the whitening gel, making teeth appear whiter and brighter.
The office type whitening procedure usually takes about an hour. However, in rare cases, several sessions may be required to whiten teeth. The whitening gel used in this procedure is at higher concentrations than the gels used at home. Therefore, the procedure should be performed under the supervision of a dentist.
The procedure quickly removes stains, discolorations and yellowing from teeth and makes them appear whiter and healthier. Although the cost of the procedure is higher than at-home whitening, it is frequently preferred because much faster and more effective results can be achieved.
How is Office Type Teeth Whitening Done?
Office type teeth whitening procedure involves the following steps:
- First, the dentist evaluates the feasibility of the whitening procedure and expected results by examining your teeth.
- Before the procedure, the dentist removes any buildup such as dental calculus, tartar or plaque.
- After the cleaning, the dentist applies a special gel containing usually 25-40% hydrogen peroxide to your teeth for whitening.
- Once the gel is applied, the dentist triggers a chemical reaction in the gel using a special light source. This light speeds up the reaction of hydrogen peroxide with oxygen in the gel, making your teeth whiter.
- During the procedure, the dentist monitors your teeth and repeats the process until the desired level of whiteness is achieved.
- After the procedure is completed, the dentist cleans your teeth and applies a special gel to reduce tooth sensitivity.
How Many Sessions Does Office Type Teeth Whitening Take?
Office type whitening is usually completed in a single session. However, depending on your teeth color and desired level of whiteness, multiple sessions may be required. Your dentist will determine the procedure time and number of sessions according to your situation.
What Should You Pay Attention to After Office Type Teeth Whitening?
After teeth whitening, you should pay attention to the following:
- Avoid consuming very hot or very cold foods for the first 24 hours.
- Do not smoke for the first 48 hours after whitening.
- Avoid consuming dark-colored foods and drinks for the first 48 hours after whitening.
- Do not exert your teeth with very hard or sticky foods for the first few days.
- Brush and floss your teeth regularly. Also, use dental care products recommended by your dentist as needed.
- Regularly schedule follow-up appointments recommended by your dentist after teeth whitening.
Your dentist will provide you with detailed instructions on what to do after the office type whitening procedure.
