Prime
Ask the doctor: What happens during teeth whitening?
Teeth affected by Amelogenesis imperfecta are more prone to decay, fractures and decay.
What you need to know:
- Teeth whitening is not suitable for everyone. It is generally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under the age of 16, or individuals with untreated cavities or gum disease.
A bright, white smile is often associated with youth, good health, and confidence. It is no surprise, then, that teeth whitening has become one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments.
However, with a wide array of products and procedures available, it is important to understand what whitening can, and cannot do, and how to do it safely. Teeth naturally darken with age.
Daily habits such as drinking coffee, tea, red wine, or smoking can cause surface stains, known as extrinsic stains, which typically respond well to whitening. Intrinsic stains, on the other hand, occur deeper within the tooth and may result from aging, trauma, certain medications, or excessive fluoride exposure during childhood. These may require more advanced or alternative treatments.
Whitening options
In-office whitening is performed by a dentist and is the fastest and most effective method. A strong bleaching gel is applied to the teeth and often activated with a special light. Noticeable results are typically achieved in just one visit.
Take-home kits from a dentist include custom-fitted trays and professional-grade whitening gel. Worn daily over one to two weeks, they provide gradual but noticeable results, with less risk of irritation compared to over-the-counter options. Over-the-counter products include whitening strips, pens, trays, and toothpaste. While widely accessible and affordable, they tend to be less effective and may lead to uneven results or tooth sensitivity if not used correctly.
Is it safe?
When supervised by a dental professional, teeth whitening is generally safe and effective. However, minor side effects such as temporary tooth sensitivity and gum irritation can occur. Dentists can help minimise these issues by customising the treatment and monitoring your progress.
Teeth whitening is not suitable for everyone. It is generally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under the age of 16, or individuals with untreated cavities or gum disease. It is also ineffective on dental restorations such as crowns, veneers, or fillings, which do not respond to whitening agents. For those who fall into these categories, alternatives such as bonding or veneers may be more appropriate.
Maintenance
Results can last from several months to a few years, depending on your oral hygiene and lifestyle. To prolong the effects: Limit consumption of staining foods and drinks.
Avoid tobacco products and brush and floss regularly. Also, consider occasional touch-up treatments as advised by your dentist.
