It is a process to remove stain from the tooth and to give back its natural original colour. Whitening is a one-time procedure performed by a dentist. It is amongst the most common and widely adopted cosmetic procedure. With the advent of the latest Dental technology, we have advanced whitening treatment procedures which give reliable and long-lasting results.
The enamel which reflects the natural color of your tooth can stain or dentin which is the inner surface of teeth stains and yellows the teeth. The causes of tooth discoloration are varied. Though many causes can be prevented yet there are some which are not in control. The causes of discoloration are:
Aging can also contribute to staining of teeth as with age the enamel gets thinner exposing the dentin below. With age, the dentin come in contact with certain food and beverage and can stain your teeth
Certain medical treatments can also contribute to staining of teeth The process of Teeth Whitening clears the stain and make your teeth look whiter. However, one should keep in mind that the results may vary from person to person.
Your dentist will first photograph your teeth which will help to know the progress of the treatment. This is also used to examine your tooth and figure out the stains.
After examining the tooth dentist will start by cleaning the tooth. He will remove the film on your enamel coated due to the food you eat or due to other substances. The whitening process begins after this. The entire process takes around 30-90 mins depending upon the severity of the stains on teeth
Your dentist will cover the gums and will then apply the whitening agent on teeth. Some whitening agents require laser lights on them and if your teeth are badly stained then your dentist will suggest you continue the process at home for a few days.
You can also opt for home whitening treatment, in this, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth and will make a custom fit mouthpiece. This helps the whitening agent to stay intact on your teeth.
One can also buy over the counter whitening products which is suitable only for the teeth which are not heavily stained.
Teeth whitening do not have any risks associated however; some people may feel sensitivity for a few days or can experience mild gum irritation for some days. Because Teeth Whitening is a cosmetic procedure it is not advised to pregnant ladies. They can get it done only after delivery.
Answer – Teeth whitening is considered safe when performed by a licensed dental professional. However, overuse of whitening products or using products that are too strong can cause tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or damage to the enamel.
Answer – The length of teeth whitening results varies depending on the individual and the whitening method used. In-office professional whitening can provide results that last for several months to a year or more with proper oral hygiene and maintenance.
Answer – Yes, there are several at-home whitening options available, such as over-the-counter whitening strips or gels, or custom-fitted trays provided by a dentist. However, it is important to use these products as directed and to consult with a dentist before starting any whitening treatment.
Answer – Teeth whitening is most effective on surface stains caused by food, drink, and smoking. Deeper stains caused by medications, injury, or certain medical conditions may not respond to whitening treatment.
Answer – Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding foods and drinks that cause staining, such as coffee and red wine, can help prolong the results of teeth whitening. Touch-up treatments may also be necessary to maintain the desired level of whiteness.