Teeth Whitening – Bleaching
A bright white smile is everyone’s dream! Some people have naturally yellowish teeth or their teeth lose whiteness due to daily habits such as drinking tea, coffee, or smoking. Even with regular brushing, tooth discoloration often cannot be prevented. This situation can deeply affect our self-confidence. So, what can be done? Here, we answer common questions about teeth whitening – bleaching.
Some teeth have intrinsic stains caused by congenital factors or medications such as antibiotics, while external discolorations caused by daily consumption of food and beverages (tea, coffee, fruit juices, wine) or smoking overshadow the natural whiteness of our teeth.
“Achieving Ideal Tooth Whiteness is Actually Not Difficult”
Getting ideal tooth whiteness is actually achievable. Discolorations can be removed with teeth whitening (bleaching), giving you a brighter smile. Teeth whitening is quite different from polishing performed after tartar cleaning. Whitening can lighten the tooth’s natural shade by 2-3 tones. Teeth whitening is done either by the dentist in-office (office bleaching) or at home (home bleaching) using custom-made clear trays with lower concentrations of bleaching gels. Additionally, there are over-the-counter whitening products like whitening toothpaste and mouthwash available at pharmacies, but their effect is much lower than professional whitening. It is best to use these only under a dentist’s recommendation after professional treatment.
What Is Teeth Whitening Like?
Office Whitening (Office Bleaching)
Office whitening is the most effective method among all whitening systems. Because higher concentrations of peroxide agents are used, whitening is faster and longer-lasting. Before whitening, a tartar cleaning is necessary for better results. Photos are taken before and after each session to monitor color changes. Usually, 2 or 3 sessions are required depending on the degree of discoloration. A protective barrier is applied on the gums to prevent irritation, then whitening gel is applied on the teeth. The gel is applied in 2 or 3 cycles of about 15 minutes each. Between sessions, patients are advised to avoid staining foods and drinks (tea, coffee, wine, etc.) and minimize smoking. Sensitivity may occur between sessions but can be managed with desensitizing toothpaste.
Home Whitening (Home Bleaching)
In home bleaching, impressions are taken before treatment and a custom clear tray is prepared. Lower concentrations of carbamide peroxide gels are used. The patient receives the trays and gels with instructions from the dentist on how to apply them. The treatment is usually done twice daily for two weeks or just overnight for 1-2 weeks. Weekly check-ups monitor progress and make adjustments if necessary. The choice of method should be made jointly by the dentist and the patient.
What Is the Success Rate of Whitening?
Studies show high satisfaction rates especially for discolorations caused by tea, coffee, smoking, and age. However, discolorations due to medications or excessive fluoride (fluorosis) do not respond as well.
How Long Does Whitening Last?
Duration varies by individual, ranging from 3 months to 3-4 years. People who consume large amounts of tea, coffee, or smoke tend to have shorter-lasting whiteness. Regular check-ups every 6 months can extend the whitening effect, and repeating whitening every 6 months to a year helps maintain brightness, shortens retreatment time, and is more economical.
