An Inside Look at the Teeth Whitening Procedure

Teeth whitening is the process of lightening the teeth and removal of stains and discoloration. Teeth whitening is not a new practice in dentistry. However, it has significantly grown in popularity in recent times. Today, teeth whitening is one of the most requested dental procedures in modern dentistry. According to research by the Australian Dental Association, almost 90% of dental patients were found to request teeth whitening treatment. Most people approach the dentist for the first time with teeth whitening as the primary motivator. A majority of these people are looking to improve their self-image, and self-confidence and have a positive impact on their quality of life. Many people always desire a bright smile, good-looking white teeth are always viewed as a symbol of good oral health to many people.

Attempts to lighten teeth or change their color date back to ancient times. The Gauls, Romans, and some other ancient tribes used urine as a mouth rinse to try and lighten their teeth. The first teeth bleaching exercise was tried in the year 1864. There were various materials that were used to try and brighten the teeth. Some of these materials include oxalic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and sodium hypochlorite. Some were used alone while others were combined with other materials. Some were used with heat activation while others were not. Today, the field of teeth whitening has grown due to advanced technology, dentists have come up with better and more effective teeth whitening options.

Teeth whitening is a low-risk simple procedure, and therefore it’s suitable for a broad range of people. Typically, good candidates for teeth whitening have mild to moderate discoloration and they are looking to achieve a white smile. However, there are a few factors that may limit one from undergoing the teeth whitening process. These include:

Patients with intrinsic Stains

Intrinsic stains are white spots, grey discoloration, or discoloration that results from a dead tooth root. Intrinsic stains affect the underlying layers of the tooth. Teeth whitening procedures work best for extrinsic stains (the brown and yellow stains) that affect the enamel. However, when you have intrinsic teeth discoloration, you can talk to your dentist about advanced teeth whitening procedures that can get rid of intrinsic discoloration.

Patients with Restorations or Fabrications on the Front Teeth

Unlike natural teeth, restorations or fabrications such as dental crowns, porcelain veneers, and dental bonding do not respond to bleaching agents. This is because restorations such as crowns and bridges are made from inorganic materials that are immune to the effects of teeth whitening. If you choose to go ahead with teeth whitening while you have such restoratives, some part of your teeth that is comprised of natural teeth will appear brighter than the parts with restorations. This will result in uneven teeth color.

Patients With Tempo mandibular Joint Disorder or Bruxism

Teeth whitening options such as whitening trays may worsen such conditions. Patients with such conditions who wish to whiten their teeth should visit their dentist for an in-office whitening.

Patients With Worn Enamel or Extreme Tooth Sensitivity

Teeth whitening for patients with such conditions may worsen them.

There are so many products and techniques available for people looking to achieve a brighter and whiter smile. With so many options available, it can be a doubting task to choose the most appropriate method for you. The best way to start your teeth whitening journey is by visiting your dentist and discussing the available options. Depending on the current condition of your teeth, your dentist will be in a position to suggest the best method for you. When it comes to teeth whitening, there are two broad categories available. These categories include professional teeth whitening and at home, teeth whitening. Here is a brief discussion about each method and the procedures involved.

This is the type of teeth whitening that is performed under the care of a dentist. Patients first undergo a dental examination to determine if they are good candidates for the procedure. The dentist will judge if you are a good candidate depending on your dental history and details regarding your teeth sensitivity. Professional teeth cleaning is also sometimes referred to as one-hour in-office whitening. This method is best for people who run a busy schedule and cannot be able to get time for at-home whitening. Here is a brief look at the procedure:

Initial Consultation

Before the dentist can start performing any whitening procedure, he or she needs to first ensure that you are ready. Your dentist will conduct a quick exam of both your teeth and gums to ensure that they are healthy enough for whitening. He will also check if you have any restorations such as dental crowns and bridges. If you have not had a dental clean recently, your dentist may suggest that you first get one before whitening. This will help in removing surface plaque and calculus before investing in teeth whitening. Once everything is in order, your dentist will make a note of the current shade of your teeth so that you can compare it with the end result. In-office procedure takes around an hour to complete.

Preparation for Gel Application

Once your teeth have been cleaned, the dentist will proceed to the actual whitening process. This process involves applying a gel to your teeth. Typically, this gel is made of a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide (about 15% to 35%) more than it is used in at-home whitening. The dentist can also use enhanced bleaching techniques such as a paint-on bleaching gel or laser-activated bleach. During gel application, the dentist will hold your mouth wide open using a special device so that your teeth can be fully exposed. He or she will then protect your gums from the bleaching agent with a special type of gel and then harden it using a high-powered light. This process is called the gingival barrier. The dentist may also go ahead and apply a substance to your teeth that will prevent them from sensitivity. Your gums and lips will also be protected by applying Vaseline or any other petroleum jelly.

Final Step

After all, that preparation has been done, the dentist now applies the bleaching gel. The gel contains some tiny crystals that serve as the main ingredient in whitening your teeth. Gel activation is done using a special type of light which is not a laser. The dentist will expose your teeth to this light multiple times during your session depending on the type and severity of your stains. For example, it is much easier to whiten stains that have been caused by coffee compared to those caused by antibiotics. As much as this treatment is normally done using one dental appointment, if your stains are deeply rooted, you may be required to schedule another dental appointment.

Once your treatment is over, remember to adhere to all aftercare tips that your dentist will give you after the process. If you experience some irritation on your gums after the procedure, don’t worry too much about it, this is normal for many patients and it will disappear after a few days. However, if you are experiencing such a feeling, make sure that you stay away from hot foods and beverages, they can increase the irritation. Also, stay away from foods that can stain your teeth such as coffee, tea, and cigarettes within the first few days after cleaning. Your teeth are very prone to staining within the first few days after the procedure. While the effects of teeth whitening can last for quite a long period depending on what you eat, poor oral hygiene practices such as smoking will accelerate this process. So, if you would like the effects of teeth whitening to last for a longer period, make sure that you practice good oral hygiene measures.

• Zoom Laser Teeth Whitening

Zoom Laser is perhaps one of the most professional teeth whitening brands. It uses a whitening gel with a 25% concentration of hydrogen peroxide. Extrinsic discoloration affecting the teeth can be readily removed using the zoom process. This process is a minimally invasive one and typically requires less than an hour to complete. As much as the time may vary depending on the specific condition of the patient’s teeth, it does not vary significantly. Before the dentist can whiten your teeth with Zoom, he or she must first evaluate the current condition of your teeth. If at the patient has any underlying dental condition such as tooth decay, gum disease, or any other condition, it must first be treated before the Zoom treatment can commence. This method is not recommended for patients suffering from poor oral health.

The procedure begins with a superficial cleaning of the teeth so as to prepare them. This can be done by either the dentist or the patient or even both. Then the dentist applies a shield that is meant to protect the patient’s gums and lips from the bleaching agent. Zoom hydrogen peroxide is now applied on the surface of the teeth. The dentist will then use the Zoom Advanced power chairside lamp to activate the hydrogen peroxide. The gel will be allowed to sit on the surface of the teeth for about 15 minutes and then removed. The dentist will then repeat the process by applying the hydrogen peroxide gel again. The gel will again be removed and re-applied for one final time. This process is supposed to take around 45 minutes. Once the dentist is done with gel application, he or she will apply a paste meant to reduce any teeth sensitivity and counter any adverse reaction of the bleach.

Results from this type of teeth whitening will be seen immediately. After the procedure, the dentist will give you a kit that you are supposed to take home with you to help you maintain your white teeth for as long as possible. Patients are also advised to avoid any foods and drinks that may accelerate discoloration.

• Poladay and Polanight

Poladay and Polanight is an incredible solution for people who are looking to brighten their smile in just a single appointment to the dentist. Pola teeth whitening has the ability to whiten your teeth up to eight shades. It can help you achieve that bright smile you’ve always yearned for. This treatment will only require one hour of your time and will be completed in the dentist’s office. This method can remove a myriad of teeth discoloration including those that have been caused by red wine, tobacco, colored food, injury, or medical treatment. This kind of teeth whitening is available in different options to suit your specific needs. You can have it done in your dentist clinic for a higher whitening strength or you can choose to do it from the comfort of your home using a takeaway home kit. There is also another option that allows you to use it on the go for some quick touch-ups irrespective of your location.

Poladay and Polanight were first introduced in the market ten years ago, and it has since become among the leading teeth whitening solution in the globe. It has tremendously grown from what it was originally in that it can now accommodate various needs of the patient. The main difference between holiday and polar night is the main bleaching ingredient used. The main ingredient used in poladay is hydrogen peroxide while the main ingredient used in polanight is carbamide peroxide. Carbamide peroxide slowly converts into hydrogen peroxide once it has been applied to the patient’s teeth. It is most preferred since it has a longer shelf-life and it’s also highly stable. Moreover, carbamide peroxide is less dangerous than hydrogen peroxide, making it suitable for untrained people to handle it.

Each system, both Poladay and Polar Night has different concentrations of active ingredients. The option you choose to use depends on your specific needs and the advice you will get from your cosmetic dentist. The products have been regulated to offer neutral PH so that they can have minimal to no effect on your oral health. Both products also have been made using some antibacterial ingredients so that they can leave you with a healthy mouth and teeth after the treatment. Additionally, the systems have used water and glycerine to prevent teeth dehydration and allow closer sticking of the product to the surfaces of the teeth.

Depending on your specific needs, you and your dentist will come up with the best method for you. You will have a tray made for you that will help you apply the product as you will be instructed by your dentist. This tray will allow full coverage of all teeth in an equal and uniform manner thus giving a full and uniform teeth whitening. The amount of time you are supposed to wear the tray depends on a number of factors including the system, concentration, and degree of discoloration. Generally, for polar night, you will apply the product and let it remain on the surface of your teeth overnight and for holiday you will only apply it for one hour every day for a couple of days. The results from using these products are amazing and you will for sure have a brighter smile. It is normal to have some temporal sensitivity that will last for a couple of days after your treatment.

• Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste is a special type of toothpaste designed to make your teeth white. It may look just like ordinary toothpaste but then it has some special teeth whitening ingredients. They attract a much higher price compared to ordinary toothpaste and in most cases will require your dentist’s approval before using them. To achieve optimum results from them, you might be required to follow some set of instructions as stated in the manual.

• Teeth Whitening Strips

This is one of the most common at-home whitening methods. What attracts people to this method is how simple it is to use it. It’s very easy to apply and does not require any initial preparations. No one likes going through a lot of hustle to achieve their goal. The only drawback with this method is that it’s not as effective as most of its adverts depict it to be. The reason why this method is not as effective is that when you apply the strips, they mainly lie on the surface of the teeth. However, your teeth are not entirely flat, they have some ridges and recesses, mostly between each tooth. This means that it is easy to leave some areas unattended while using this method.

• Whitening Trays

Whitening trays have been in use for relatively a long period of time. As much as these trays are a bit bulky, they offer relatively good results. While using this method, you will have to visit your dentist to acquire whitening trays that are custom-made to fit your teeth. You will also be provided with the gel made of hydrogen peroxide to be used on the tray. While using it, all you need to do is fill the tray with hydrogen peroxide and wear it. Though not many people are able to wear the tray at night while sleeping if you can, it’s an added advantage.

Bright sparkly teeth can be tricky to achieve and maintain, especially with all the beverages and foods we take every day. Additionally, bad habits such as smoking and neglecting our routine oral hygiene greatly contribute to the discoloring of teeth. Whereas teeth whitening may be referred as a cosmetic procedure, it ought to be taken seriously by every individual. Teeth whitening can improve the quality of your life in a great way by making you feel more comfortable with your appearance and boosting your self-confidence. Here are a few ways brighter and whiter teeth can benefit your life:

• Teeth whitening removes stubborn stains

Most of the foods and beverages we consume are responsible for eroding our enamel which gives the shiny white lustre to our teeth. Coffee, sodas, candies, tea, and alcohol are some of the common causes of teeth discoloration since they also lead to stains. Smoking tobacco is the main cause of yellow stains and unattractive teeth due to the plaque that builds up over the teeth’ enamel. In most serious cases, regular at-home teeth cleaning methods may not effectively restore the whiteness of your teeth, therefore, you opt for professional teeth cleaning. In other cases, your dentist may recommend some teeth whitening kits because most of the normal gels and whitening strips may not be effective beyond a certain limit.

• It makes you seem friendlier

If you are worried whether you appear friendlier to new individuals you meet then brighter and whiter teeth are the best way to go. Looking more friendly and approachable is essential in your career life. It is always important to present a more approachable, easy, and friendly face when attending meetings, heading for interviews, and giving presentations. A friendly face will not only boost your self-confidence to pass that interview or win over more important clients but also make you look trustworthy which is essential for your work life.

• It minimizes the look of wrinkles

Sparkling white teeth shift the focus away from your wrinkles on the face. Once you open your mouth and your teeth are visible, people will naturally focus on your smile. This reduces the look of the wrinkles such as frown lines. Even though this might not be on top of your mind, it is obviously an added advantage.

There you have it, I hope this article will be able to guide you if you are looking to have a brighter and whiter smile. Your smile is one of your most valuable assets. It is the first thing people notice about you. So, it is important that you take measures that aim to brighten that beautiful smile. Remember that as much as at-home teeth whitening methods may be affordable to many, professional teeth whitening offers immediate and better results.