Services

Teeth Whitening

Overview of Teeth Whitening

Daily teeth cleaning helps maintain the brightness, whiteness, and health of teeth. However, some people may occasionally feel that the shine of their teeth has diminished or they have become more yellowish, so several methods have been developed for teeth whitening.

The natural colour of teeth is not extremely white, so the expected outcome of whitening is to lighten their colour. It targets the outer layer known as tooth enamel, which varies in colour from person to person. Whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, and these substances work to break down stains into smaller pieces, making the colour less concentrated and the teeth brighter. Whitening methods do not require removing a layer from the surface of the teeth, so they do not make them extremely white; rather, they lighten the previous shade.

The difference between Dental Cleaning and Teeth Whitening:

The main goal of undergoing dental cleaning at the clinic is to improve dental health, which involves removing microbes present in the mouth and on the surface of the teeth through polishing and scaling, both of which are means to prevent and control gum diseases.

Scaling: It involves removing plaque and tartar deposits from the surface of the teeth.

Polishing: It involves removing remaining plaque and external stains, making the teeth brighter and shinier, and making it difficult for plaque to adhere to them.

After completing dental cleaning at the clinic, the teeth may become whiter after removing accumulated stains; however, if their actual colour is severely yellow, clinic cleaning will not change that. The main goal of teeth whitening is to restore the natural shine and whiteness of teeth that has diminished over time due to factors causing discolouration.

Teeth whitening agents are used to remove stains and any discolouration present in the fine pores of the teeth.

Using Teeth Whitening:

Anyone can use and perform teeth whitening, but it is necessary for the condition of the teeth and gums to be good. It is important to seek medical advice from a dentist before starting whitening treatment, as it may not be suitable for everyone. Additionally, it does not have an effect in the following cases:

1. Presence of fillings or crowns on the front teeth.
2. Presence of veneers on the front teeth.
3. Severe tooth discolouration due to medications.
4. Tooth discolouration due to injury to the tooth.

It is also not recommended to use it in the following cases:

1. Age under 16 years old.
2. Sensitive teeth.
3. Allergy to any of the whitening agent’s components.
4. During pregnancy and breastfeeding.
5. Gum infections or diseases.
6. If the tooth root is exposed.

Types of Teeth Whitening:

• Laser Teeth Whitening in Dental Clinics: 

This is one of the fastest methods of teeth whitening. It is performed in a single or multiple session depending on the severity of discolouration and does not require anesthesia. To protect the mouth and gums and avoid the effects of the whitening agents, a semi-gel substance is applied to the gums. Then, the teeth are coated with a chemical solution containing hydrogen peroxide. Afterward, a laser is used to activate this element. However, using this method increases the likelihood of developing tooth sensitivity.

• At-Home Teeth Whitening Trays:

1. Custom Teeth Whitening Trays: 

The dentist takes an impression of the teeth (a mold) and manufactures a customized tray that does not touch the gums. Once the tray is ready, a gel substance (as determined by the dentist) is placed in it, and it is worn on the teeth for about two hours. The duration of wearing the tray depends on the individual’s needs and the dentist’s recommendations.

1. Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Trays:

These can be purchased from pharmacies and usually come with a liquid that accelerates whitening. The tray is placed directly on the teeth before applying the whitening gel. These trays come in one size fits all, which may cause the gel to leak out. The tray is worn on the teeth for a duration ranging from 5 to 30 minutes, depending on the strength of the gel. For best results, it is recommended to continue using it for 10 to 14 days.

How to Use At-Home Teeth Whitening Trays:

1. Brush your teeth thoroughly with whitening toothpaste or any non-colored toothpaste.
2. Cleanse your gums and ensure your mouth is entirely clean.
3. Clean the trays, then apply the whitening gel provided with them according to the dentist’s instructions.
4. Fit the trays onto your teeth for approximately an hour.
5. After the designated time, remove the trays and rinse your teeth thoroughly.
6. Repeat these steps for two weeks to 10 days until you achieve the desired result.

Are Teeth Whitening Trays Safe for Everyone?

Teeth whitening trays are generally safe under the supervision of a dentist, but they are not recommended for use in the following cases:

1. Age under 16 years old.
2. Sensitive teeth.
3. Allergy to any of the whitening agent’s components.
4. During pregnancy and breastfeeding.
5. Gum infections or diseases.
6. If the tooth root is exposed.

3- Whitening Strips: 

Available over the counter, whitening strips are adhesive strips that are applied directly to the teeth. Each time, a strip is placed on the teeth and then discarded after the specified period (approximately 30 minutes). Therefore, they are considered a cleaner and easier-to-use method compared to trays. Additionally, it is also possible to purchase dissolvable strips that naturally break down after 10-15 minutes, leading to quick and good results within at least seven days. However, it may be difficult for the strip’s effect to reach all parts of the tooth.

4- Whitening Pen:

Consisting of a small tube containing gel applied directly to the teeth via a soft brush, the whitening pen is easy to use and typically requires use for one to two weeks. It is used 2-4 times a day for a duration ranging from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the type.

5- Whitening Toothpaste:

Whitening toothpaste only removes surface stains rather than changing the colour of the teeth. Therefore, if the teeth are naturally yellow, using whitening toothpaste will not alter that. It may also scratch the enamel of the teeth and increase sensitivity when used for a long period. However, its use helps prolong the effects of treatment for other types of whitening.

Factors Affecting Tooth Whiteness:

1. Some foods with strong pigments, such as berries and cherries.
2. Certain beverages like tea and coffee.
3. Formation of tartar, plaque, and other deposits.
4. Dental trauma or injury; the body’s response to injury may lead to increased formation of a dark-coloured dentin layer beneath the enamel.
5. Smoking.
6. Weakening of the tooth enamel layer due to aging.
7. Some medications like antibiotics.
8. Excessive fluoride use during the growth stage.

The results of teeth whitening procedures vary from person to person depending on the health and colour of their teeth. If the colour of a tooth changes due to nerve death inside it, the nerve canal is filled with a white material, which improves the colour of the tooth externally.

Side Effects After Teeth Whitening:

1. Irritation or inflammation of the gums.
2. Tooth sensitivity.
3. Appearance of white spots on the gums.

*These symptoms are usually temporary and often disappear after a few days. However, if they persist for a long period, it is advisable to consult a dentist.

Tips for Tooth Sensitivity After Whitening: 

Sometimes teeth can become sensitive temporarily, and to reduce the pain, the following is recommended:

1. Avoid consuming foods that cause pain to sensitive teeth (such as cold beverages or sweets) and rinse with warm water.
2. Use a high-fluoride toothpaste and apply it to the tooth for several minutes.
3. Clean your teeth with toothpaste specially designed for sensitive teeth.
4. Pause teeth whitening for a temporary period.
5. Reduce the duration of applying the whitening agent to the teeth.

General Guidelines:

1. Avoid consuming foods, beverages, and other factors that can affect the colour of your teeth.
2. Use a straw when consuming beverages that may cause teeth yellowing.
3. Consume foods that help prevent tooth discoloration (such as cheese, apples, etc.), as they also help neutralize tooth acidity, protecting the enamel from damage.
4. Rinse or clean your teeth immediately after consuming foods and beverages that may affect their colour.
5. Maintain good dental hygiene and oral health.
6. Stop using the whitening agent once you are satisfied with the results.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening:

• Does the result of teeth whitening last forever? 

No, it typically lasts from one to three years.

• Does frequent teeth whitening harm them? What are the potential damages? 

Yes, it can cause tooth sensitivity and may lead to pulp inflammation or root melting.

• When can I undergo teeth whitening again?

Usually, when you notice colour regression, with a minimum interval of three months between treatments.

• Does continuous use of whitening toothpaste harm the teeth? 

Yes.

• What are the best types of teeth whitening? 

Home whitening.

• What are the expected problems after teeth whitening with trays?

Tooth sensitivity.

Misconceptions About Teeth Whitening:

• Rinsing with olive oil whitens teeth. 

Fact: There is no study to support this.

• Consuming hot beverages affects tooth colour more than cold beverages.

Fact: Not true.

• There are natural methods or foods like strawberries and banana peels that help whiten teeth. 

Fact: Not true; there are no foods that help whiten teeth.

• Brushing teeth with charcoal is a safe method for teeth whitening.

Fact: No; brushing with charcoal can lead to enamel erosion.