Teeth whitening is a procedure that aims to remove tooth discoloration. Teeth whitening is performed as a result of discoloration or staining of the enamel and dentin layers over time, or in advanced stages. It is also considered in the field of cosmetic care and is performed to achieve whiter teeth. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for teeth whitening. Whitening mainly recommended for those who maintain oral hygiene and have healthy teeth/gums.
Types of Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is divided into two types based on the technique used. These are:
- Home Whitening (Home Bleaching)
- Office Whitening (Office Bleaching)
These procedures can lighten the color of teeth by 2-3 shades. Office bleaching, which is done in a dental office, uses a bleaching gel and light to quickly lighten the color of the teeth by several shades. Office whitening is more effective and safer than home whitening.
Home whitening is performed by placing gels into mouthpieces specially prepared for the person with the measurements taken from the person's mouth. Plaque mouthpiece should be worn 4-8 hours a day depending on the desired color&gel. Generally, the desired whiteness is achieved within 5 - 7 days.
In addition to the two methods mentioned, there is also an internal bleaching method. (internal bleaching) This refers to the whitening of the tooth from the inside out. First, the pulp is removed with root canal treatment. Sodium perborate is placed in the tooth. Sodium perborate dissolves the discolorations and whitens the tooth.
After the teeth whitening treatment, a simple tooth sensitivity can be seen in the teeth. However, it will end within a few days. The longevity of the treatment depends on daily oral hygiene and eating habits. Therefore, it is extremely important to follow the dentist's recommendations after whitening.
Can Teeth Re-color After the Treatment?
Teeth whitening treatment removes external and internal stains on the teeth. Therefore, the teeth maintain their appearance after use. However, if some points are not paid attention to, the teeth can re-color again. So, care should be taken to prevent external staining of the teeth after whitening. The dentist's recommendations after treatment should not be ignored.
What Should be Considered After the Whitening Treatment?
There are some rules that patients should pay attention to after office type whitening treatment. In whitening treatment, the activation of whitening agents applied to the surface of the tooth continues for 24 hours. Therefore, the first 24 hours are very important. After the treatment, pain and sensitivity in the teeth may occur. To prevent sensitivity, a sensitivity prevention gel is applied to the tooth surfaces during treatment.
The things to be considered after whitening treatment are as follows:
- The most important thing to pay attention to after the treatment is brushing your teeth twice a day, morning and night. To minimize sensitivity, it is recommended to use toothpaste that contains fluoride and desensitizing agents.
- To ensure that the whitening treatment lasts long, it is also important to pay attention to your diet. You should avoid foods that are colored, staining, such as coffee, tea, cigarettes, tomato sauce, cherry juice, red wine, etc. and acidic drinks.
- Sensitivity may occur on the teeth after whitening. Therefore, avoid consuming very cold or very hot foods and drinks.
- Avoid chemicals on teeth for 6 months after whitening.
- In addition to the treatment, it is not recommended to use products that are marketed as toothpaste specifically for teeth whitening.
