Tooth whitening is an aesthetic treatment that aims to lighten the colour of teeth and remove stains. There are different types of professional tooth whitening, such as whitening with light or photoactivation, whitening with a splint, mixed whitening and internal whitening. It is important to carry out whitening under professional supervision and to follow proper hygiene measures. Some home remedies and products that promise to whiten teeth are also disproved. These topics and more will be discussed throughout the article.
What is tooth whitening?
Tooth whitening is a cosmetic treatment whose main objective is to lighten the colour of teeth and remove stains and discolouration that may have accumulated over time. Through various procedures, the aim is to restore the teeth to their natural white colour and achieve a more radiant smile.
This treatment is carried out with the use of specific products and techniques that act on the dental structure, eliminating stains and lightening the enamel tone. It is important to note that tooth whitening is a safe and effective procedure when performed under the supervision of a qualified professional.
Teeth whitening not only focuses on improving the aesthetic appearance of teeth, but can also contribute to increased confidence and self-esteem. With clearer, more radiant teeth, a more attractive and youthful smile is possible.
It is important to note that teeth whitening does not permanently change the colour of your teeth, as stains and discolouration may build up again over time. However, it is possible to prolong the duration of the result by following proper oral hygiene habits and avoiding certain foods and drinks that can stain teeth.
Factors that may cause tooth discolouration
- Frequent consumption of highly pigmented foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine and acidic foods.
- Smoking and use of tobacco products.
- Natural ageing, as tooth enamel tends to wear away over time, allowing the darker inner layer of the teeth to show through.
- Prolonged use of certain medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics.
- Injuries or knocks to the teeth that may cause internal discolouration.
Myths and facts about teeth whitening
When it comes to tooth whitening, there are some misconceptions that are important to debunk. The following are common myths and their corresponding realities:
Myth 1: Rinsing your mouth with hydrogen peroxide or brushing your teeth with baking soda and lemon whitens teeth.
Reality: These home remedies can damage tooth enamel and at best provide only a momentary whitening effect. They are neither effective nor safe methods of achieving long-lasting teeth whitening.
Myth 2: Tooth whitening looks artificial and unnatural.
Reality: The aim of tooth whitening is to restore teeth to their natural whiteness. The degree of whiteness achieved will depend on the individual's condition and original colour. The end result should be a radiant and natural looking smile.
These myths can raise wrong expectations about tooth whitening and could lead to the choice of methods that are inappropriate or even detrimental to oral health. It is essential to have accurate information and to trust the opinion of a qualified professional.
If you are thinking of having your teeth whitened, it is advisable to visit a dentist for a preliminary diagnosis. The professional will assess the condition of your teeth and gums, determine the desired degree of whiteness and inform you about possible temporary side effects, such as tooth sensitivity or gum irritation.
Types of professional tooth whitening
There are different types of professional tooth whitening that adapt to the needs and preferences of each patient. Below, we will explain the main types of tooth whitening:
Light bleaching or photoactivation
This tooth whitening technique uses an activating light to enhance the effect of the whitening gel applied to the teeth. The gel contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which penetrates the tooth enamel and removes stains and discolourations. The light helps to accelerate the whitening process, providing faster and more effective results.
Bleaching with splint
In splint teeth whitening, a customised splint is placed over the teeth and filled with a whitening gel. The splint helps to keep the gel in contact with the teeth for the time necessary to achieve effective results. This type of whitening can be done in the dentist's office or at home under the supervision of the dentist.
Mixed bleaching
Mixed whitening combines the application of whitening gel in the clinic with the use of customised splints at home. During the in-clinic session, a higher concentration of whitening gel is used, and then the patient continues the treatment at home with the splints and a lower concentration gel. With this combination, a more intensive and longer lasting teeth whitening is achieved.
Internal bleaching
Internal whitening is carried out on teeth that have suffered darkening due to trauma or endodontic treatment. In this case, a whitening agent is applied directly to the inside of the tooth and left to act for a set period of time. This procedure is performed under the supervision of the dentist and can be an effective option to improve the aesthetic appearance of darkened teeth from the inside.
Each type of tooth whitening has its own particularities and may be more appropriate in certain situations. It is important to consult a qualified dentist to assess the oral condition and recommend the most appropriate type of whitening for each patient.
Importance of having your teeth whitened by a qualified professional
Tooth whitening is an aesthetic treatment that requires the supervision and knowledge of a qualified professional. Performing it properly and safely is essential to obtain the desired results and prevent possible risks.
A qualified dental professional has the expertise to assess the patient's oral health and determine if they are suitable for teeth whitening. In addition, they will be able to identify any existing dental conditions or problems that may hinder the procedure or cause complications.
Each person is unique and has different dental characteristics, such as tooth sensitivity or enamel shade. A qualified professional will be able to tailor the teeth whitening treatment to the specific needs of each patient, taking into account their dental condition, whitening goals and any concerns or pre-existing conditions.
Another important aspect of having your teeth whitened by a professional is the safety of the process. The products and techniques used by dentists are backed by scientific research and meet quality and safety standards. The professionals have specialised equipment and precise knowledge to carry out the procedure safely and effectively.
In addition, a qualified dentist will provide the patient with guidelines and tips for aftercare following teeth whitening to maintain the results in the long term. This includes proper oral hygiene recommendations, choosing the right dental products and scheduling regular check-ups to assess dental health and maintain the desired white colour.
Steps prior to tooth whitening
Before undergoing tooth whitening, it is necessary to carry out a series of preliminary steps to obtain the best results and guarantee the patient's safety.
Prior diagnosis by a professional
The first step is to receive a complete diagnosis by a qualified professional in aesthetic dentistry. This diagnosis will allow the general condition of the teeth and gums to be assessed, as well as identify any possible contraindications or dental problems that need to be treated beforehand.
Assessment of the condition of teeth and gums
Once the diagnosis has been made, the specific condition of the patient's teeth and gums will be assessed. This includes testing for the presence of cavities, periodontal disease or other conditions that may affect teeth whitening. It is essential to ensure that the teeth and gums are in good health before the whitening treatment is carried out.
Determination of the desired degree of whiteness
At this stage, you will work together with the patient to determine the desired degree of whiteness of the teeth. Everyone has different preferences and expectations regarding the colour of their teeth, so it is important to set a personalised and realistic goal. The practitioner will provide the patient with a visual guide with different shades of white so that they can choose the desired result.
Possible temporary side effects
Before teeth whitening is performed, it is necessary to inform the patient about the possible temporary side effects that may occur. These include tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. These effects are usually temporary and disappear once the treatment is completed, but it is important that the patient is aware of them and knows how to manage them properly.
Alternatives that don't work for teeth whitening
Whitening toothpastes
Whitening toothpastes are products that are marketed with the promise of lightening the colour of our teeth. However, it is important to note that their effectiveness is limited. These pastes often contain abrasive ingredients that, if used indiscriminately or uncontrollably, can damage tooth enamel. Moreover, their whitening action is limited to the removal of surface stains and does not succeed in changing the colour of teeth to a radiant white.
Whitening mouthwashes
Whitening mouthwashes are another type of product that is promoted as an alternative for whiter teeth. However, their whitening effect is limited and is mainly based on the removal of surface stains. These rinses cannot lighten the intrinsic colour of teeth and often contain chemical agents that may cause irritation or sensitivity of the gums and oral mucosa.
Unprofessionally endorsed laundering kits
It is possible to find tooth whitening kits on the market that are sold directly to the consumer, without professional supervision or advice. These kits often include whitening gels and trays for home use. However, it is essential to be cautious with their use, as their effectiveness and safety can be questionable. Incorrect application or misuse of these products can lead to damage to tooth enamel, tooth sensitivity and gum irritation.
Over-the-counter LED lights without professional endorsement
Over-the-counter LED lights are another type of product marketed as a quick and easy way to whiten teeth. These lights are often accompanied by gels or activator products, but it is important to note that their efficacy is not supported by dental professionals. In addition, the use of LED lights without proper supervision can lead to unnecessary radiation exposure and does not guarantee optimal or safe results.
Proper oral hygiene measures after tooth whitening
After undergoing teeth whitening, it is essential to follow certain oral hygiene measures to maintain the results obtained and to look after the health of your teeth. Here are some recommendations for you to follow after whitening:
- Regular brushing: Continue to brush your teeth at least twice a day using a suitable toothpaste and a soft toothbrush. It is important to use gentle, circular movements to avoid damaging tooth enamel.
- Flossing: Be sure to floss regularly to remove food debris and plaque that builds up between teeth and in hard-to-reach areas.
- Gentle mouthwash: You can use a mild, alcohol-free mouthwash after brushing your teeth to ensure proper oral hygiene. However, avoid whitening mouthwashes, as they may contain agents that could alter the whitening result.
- Avoid pigmented foods and drinks: After teeth whitening, it is advisable to avoid excessive consumption of foods and drinks that can stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, carbonated beverages and foods with artificial colours.
- Reduce tobacco and alcohol consumption: Tobacco and alcohol can negatively affect the whiteness of your teeth, so it is advisable to reduce their consumption or, ideally, avoid them altogether.
- Regular visits to the dentist: Continue to attend regular dental check-ups so that your dentist can assess the health of your teeth and perform professional cleanings to keep them free of stains and plaque.
By following these oral hygiene measures after teeth whitening, you can enjoy whiter teeth and maintain a radiant smile. Don't forget that everyone is different, so it is important to follow the specific recommendations provided by your dentist for your particular case.
Dental aesthetics and other related treatments
Dental aesthetics encompasses a variety of treatments that help to improve the appearance and function of teeth. These treatments offer solutions for different aesthetic problems, such as the shape, size, colour and position of teeth. Some of the most common treatments include dental veneers, dental implants, orthodontics and Invisalign, as well as regular dental check-ups and dental cleanings. Each of these is detailed below:
Dental veneers
Dental veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite that are bonded to the front of teeth to improve their appearance. This treatment is ideal for correcting problems such as misaligned teeth, stains, gaps or fractures. Dental veneers are a popular choice because of their durability and natural-looking appearance.
Dental implants
Dental implants are a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. They consist of placing a titanium implant in the jawbone, on which an artificial crown is placed. Dental implants offer a similar appearance and functionality to natural teeth, allowing for a full smile and efficient chewing.
Orthodontics and Invisalign
Orthodontics is a treatment used to correct the position of teeth and improve the bite. Traditionally, metal brackets have been the most common option, but today Invisalign, a system of clear, removable aligners that are virtually invisible, is also available. Both options offer effective results and help to achieve a balanced and aligned smile.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings
Regular dental check-ups and dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health. Check-ups detect and treat dental problems at an early stage, while cleanings remove plaque and tartar build-up, keeping teeth and gums healthy. It is important to follow a regular routine of dental visits to ensure a healthy smile and prevent future problems.
