Teeth Whitening

What is Teeth Whitening Process? 

Tooth whitening is a dental whitening method that is performed to replace the teeth that lose their white appearance over time with a healthy and shiny appearance. 

Tooth Whitening procedures must be performed under the supervision of a doctor. The use of dental gel or dye-like products is not recommended unless a doctor's approval is obtained. In order not to cause permanent damage to the teeth, the whitening process should be carried out by dentists who are equipped in a clinical environment and field. The tooth whitening technique performed in the clinical environment can take an average of 60-90 minutes. Tooth whitening application, the effect of which is permanent, does not give results in individuals with a porcelain coating. The teeth must be healthy and healthy to obtain results from the procedure.

Who is a Good Candidate for Teeth Whitening?

As a result of intensive consumption of tea, coffee, cigarettes, and acidic drinks, the enamel layer on the teeth may become more porous. However, stains and plaque formation are seen on the teeth depending on eating and drinking habits. Tooth whitening techniques can be performed on many individuals who are uncomfortable with this non-aesthetic appearance and do not have serious dental health problems. 

For tooth whitening procedures, the individual must have completed tooth development. At this point, the procedure is considered suitable for every individual over the age of 16. The individual who has problems such as tooth decay, gum diseases, and tooth loss is expected to improve oral and dental health primarily with orthodontic treatments. To avoid problems in this regard, it is very important to follow the process recommended by the specialist dentist. 

If tooth whitening treatment is performed on patients younger than 16 years of age, permanent damage may occur. The nerves in the mouth area of patients younger than 16 years of age are quite large. At this point, there may be a possibility that the nerves will be damaged during the tooth whitening treatment and that serious problems may arise as a result of requiring root canal treatment.

What are Teeth Whitening Methods?

Tooth whitening methods are performed with two different techniques as home type and office type. A doctor's check is required for both types of bleaching. During this control, a detailed oral examination of the individual is performed and it is determined whether discomfort may prevent the procedure. If the patient is suitable for the whitening process, it is decided which tooth whitening technique will be preferred. 

Home Teeth Whitening

A doctor's control is required before applying the home-type teeth whitening technique, which is one of the tooth whitening techniques often preferred by individuals. The dentist can decide on the home-type teeth whitening method as a result of the physical examination performed. At this point, the measurements of the patient's teeth are taken. According to these measurements, thin and transparent plaques are prepared for the patient in the laboratory. The gel is performed on the plaques and then placed in such a way that they integrate with the teeth. The waiting time for these plaques on the teeth is 5-6 hours on average. The intervals at which this procedure should be performed should be determined by the recommendation of the dentist. 

Office Type Teeth Whitening

Office-type whitening is one of the bleaching methods performed by the dentist in the clinical environment and gives maximum results. During this technique, the teeth are dried, then a protective gel is performed on the gums to prevent the whitening agent from causing damage. 

After the Office-type bleaching method, it may be necessary to wait 20-40 minutes. During the waiting period, a laser can be held on the teeth as a light source. When it comes to the use of gels that can have a lightless effect, there is no need for a laser.

What Should Be Considered After Teeth Whitening Treatment?

After the bleaching process, the consumption of foods and beverages containing alcohol, cigarettes, and dyestuffs should be avoided for an average of 2-3 days. In this process, the consumption of acidic products should be interrupted to prevent damage to the teeth. Teeth should not be brushed hard for the first week after teeth whitening application. In this process, soft toothbrushes should be preferred. The use of auxiliary products that benefit from protecting oral and dental health can be continued one week after the procedure. There is no harm in individuals who experience hypersensitivity in their teeth benefiting from special pastes. 

To quickly feel the effect of tooth whitening, it is recommended not to consume any product containing dyestuffs for 48 hours after whitening. It is extremely important to follow the doctor's recommendations in order not to adversely affect the treatment process.