What is Teeth Whitening (Bleaching)?

Discoloration may occur in teeth in the course of time. Consuming acidic beverages, smoking, or ingesting sugary foods may change the color of teeth. Bleaching is the procedure of eliminating the colored organic and inorganic materials formed in the teeth (in the enamel and dentin) using teeth whitening gels.

The bleaching procedure is a pain-free procedure if performed by a dentist. It has to be taken into consideration that the bleaching procedure must be carried out either by or under supervision of a dentist. It is likely to face a problem, if the procedure is performed before mouth cavity is checked regarding sensitivity and tooth decay.

Office Bleaching

It is a bleaching procedure directly performed by a dentist. In the ‘office bleaching’, where laser beams and whitening gel are used by dentist, the teeth can immediately be bleached a few shades at the end of the procedure and the effect will be long term. After this procedure is completed, we advise our patients to avoid coloring materials such as cigarettes, coffee, red wine, etc.

It is a must to brush our teeth regularly in order to achieve whiter teeth that enable us talk and laugh freely. In addition, we must stay away from the significant factors that cause yellow stains on our teeth, such as cigarettes, tea, coffee, coke, and so on, so that we can keep our teeth white.

What is Single Tooth Whitening (Internal Whitening)?

Single tooth whitening is considered for teeth with discoloration following root canal treatment. The filling material in the teeth is removed, the whitening gel is applied to the resultant cavity, and the teeth are closed using temporary filler. Sessions are repeated at 3-day intervals until the desired color is achieved.

Is Teeth Whitening Harmful?

Whitening procedures do not harm your teeth, provided it is performed by a dentist. Whitening techniques may cause sensitivity in the teeth, but it is usually mild. In this case, air or too hot or cold food and beverages can lead to sensitivity. This condition is an expected side effect. The tooth sensitivity is generally expected to disappear within 24-48 hours. When an unexpected situation is faced, the physician must definitely be consulted.

Who Can Do It?

There is no known side effect of the whitening procedure. However, pregnant or breastfeeding women are advised to see a physician before the procedure. In addition, the whitening procedure cannot be considered for children.

What Are Considerations After Bleaching?

It is necessary to avoid tea, coffee, wine, and acidic drinks, such as coke, and tobacco products during bleaching and for one week after the procedure. Otherwise, the effect of the whitening may wear off too soon. When deemed appropriate by the dentist, the whitening procedure can be repeated at semi-annual intervals.