Teeth Whitening ?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure aimed at removing discolorations, stains, and yellowness that develop over time on the surface of teeth to achieve a whiter and brighter smile. The whitening process lightens the natural color of teeth without damaging the enamel, enhancing their aesthetic appearance.
Teeth Whitening Methods ?
-
Office Type Whitening (Clinical Whitening): A professional whitening method performed by a dentist in a clinical setting. Strong whitening gels and typically with the support of laser or LED light, teeth can be lightened several shades in a short time. This method provides fast and effective results.
-
Home Whitening : A method you can apply at home with whitening kits recommended by your dentist. You can lighten the color of your teeth using specially prepared whitening gels and mouth trays. This method takes longer to show results compared to clinical whitening but is more cost-effective.
-
Whitening Toothpastes : Whitening toothpastes used daily help remove surface stains and maintain the color of teeth. However, these products are not as effective as professional whitening and provide more limited results.
How is Teeth Whitening Applied ?
-
Examination and Planning: Your dentist evaluates the health of your teeth and gums and determines the most suitable whitening method for you.
-
Teeth Cleaning: Plaque and tartar are removed from your teeth, allowing the whitening gel to penetrate the tooth surface more effectively.
-
Whitening Gel Application: Your dentist applies a specialized whitening gel to your teeth and typically activates this gel with light or laser assistance.
-
Evaluation of Results: After the procedure is completed, the color of your teeth is assessed, and additional treatments are applied if necessary.
Advantages of Teeth Whitening ?
- Aesthetic Appearance: By lightening the color of your teeth, you achieve a brighter and more aesthetic smile.
- Increased Confidence: White and healthy teeth boost your confidence and make you feel more comfortable in social situations.
- Fast and Effective Results: Professional whitening methods provide noticeable results in a short period of time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is teeth whitening procedure safe?
Yes, teeth whitening procedure is completely safe when performed under dental supervision. Special whitening gels that lighten the color of teeth without damaging the enamel are used.
2. How long does teeth whitening procedure take?
Clinical whitening procedure is usually completed within 1 hour. Home whitening, however, should be applied daily for several weeks.
3. Is teeth whitening procedure painful?
Teeth whitening procedure is generally painless. However, some patients may experience temporary sensitivity after the procedure. This is temporary and your dentist will take necessary measures to minimize sensitivity.
4. How long do teeth whitening results last?
Teeth whitening results can last from several months to several years depending on your diet and lifestyle. Avoiding staining substances like coffee, tea, and smoking, and maintaining regular oral hygiene help prolong whitening results.
5. Is teeth whitening suitable for everyone?
Teeth whitening procedure is suitable for individuals with good dental and gum health. It may not be suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or individuals with severe tooth decay or gum disease. Your dentist will assess your suitability after an examination.
6. What should I consider after teeth whitening procedure?
Avoiding staining foods and beverages (such as coffee, tea, red wine, colored fruit juices) for the first 24-48 hours after the procedure is important. Also, refrain from smoking.
7. Are whitening toothpastes effective? Whitening toothpastes help maintain the color of teeth by removing surface stains. However, they are not as effective as professional whitening procedures and provide more limited results.
8. How soon will I see results after teeth whitening procedure? Results can be seen immediately after clinical whitening procedure. With home whitening, results typically appear within a few weeks.
9. Does teeth whitening procedure damage teeth?
Professional whitening procedures lighten the color of teeth without damaging the enamel. Your dentist performs whitening in a safe and effective manner.
10. I have sensitivity after teeth whitening procedure, what should I do?
Sensitivity after whitening is normal and usually subsides shortly. Your dentist may recommend special toothpastes or fluoride treatments to address sensitivity.