What is Tooth Whitening?
Tooth whitening is one of the most common dental procedures people want these days. A variety of whitening methods are now accessible, ranging from professional treatments done in dental clinics with strong bleaching agents under expert care to at-home alternatives like whitening toothpastes, gels, and strips.
You must select a whitening technique that takes into account the kind of discolouration you have in order to whiten your teeth successfully. It is likely that you will need to select a tooth whitening technique that safely treats both intrinsic and extrinsic staining if you have both.
Types of stains
Intrinsic stains
Intrinsic stains refer to those that are located inside the enamel of your teeth. Sometimes, as a child, intrinsic staining exists even before your teeth erupt from your gums.
High fluoride exposure, the use of antibiotics, and the thinning of your tooth enamel with age can all cause these stains. In rare cases, intrinsic staining may even be genetic.
Extrinsic stains
Extrinsic stains are on the outside of your tooth. These result from exposure to environmental factors that discolour your tooth enamel. Smoking, coffee, and artificial food colouring can all result in this kind of discolouration. Extrinsic stains are also associated with antibiotic use, just like intrinsic stains.
How Does it Work?
There are mainly two methods used to whiten teeth:
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In-Office Whitening
There are two steps in this process. Before applying gel to your teeth, your dentist will first remove any plaque, tartar, and bacteria that have grown between your teeth. For roughly an hour, this is left on. The hydrogen peroxide is then applied to the teeth, and its action is enhanced by a laser source.
One advantage of in-office teeth whitening is that the results show up right away. For those with extremely sensitive teeth, laser teeth whitening is a safe alternative.
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Take-Home Whitening
Your dentist will provide you with a mouth tray that is specially made from thin, flexible plastic. You can fill it with whitening gel and leave it on your teeth for the amount of time that the dentist recommends. Usually, it takes up to 30 days for this process to produce the intended outcome.
Because in-office whitening products contain higher concentrations of peroxide, they can lighten teeth more quickly. As a result, gingival tissues are typically shielded prior to application of the agent. Heat or intense blue light exposure has been applied. After a single 30- to 60-minute treatment, teeth lightening results are visible.
How Long Does It Last?
The type of whitener you're using will determine how long your teeth will stay whiter. Your way of life has an impact as well.
The goal of teeth-whitening procedures is to lessen stains, not to eliminate them. Dental procedures and at-home products will last longer if you maintain good oral hygiene.