Teeth whitening is a treatment aimed at making natural teeth lighter without damaging their structure. This is the least invasive aesthetic procedure to make teeth whiter, consisting of the application of a whitening gel on the dental structure. Even so, and as with any other procedure, it is always necessary to be fully informed about the treatment and to evaluate with the dentist which is most suitable for each patient. Here is what you need to know about teeth whitening.
What factors contribute to the darkening of teeth?
Although the natural colour of teeth varies from person to person, there are some factors and behaviours that can contribute to teeth developing stains or becoming yellow over time. Some examples are:
Aging;
Presence of tartar or cavities;
Frequent consumption of beverages such as coffee, wine or soft drinks and foods that
stain the teeth, such as red fruits, for example;Smoking.
Can anyone undergo teeth whitening?
In general, teeth whitening – as long as it is evaluated and recommended by the dentist – can be performed on anyone. However, there are some exceptions that may require some type of prior treatment for this aesthetic procedure to have the desired effect. This includes patients with cavities, dental sensitivity, or gum problems. Additionally, it is not recommended for pregnant women and minors under 18 years old.
What types of whitening exist? And which dental whitening gives the best results?
There are two types:
1. Internal dental whitening
Internal dental whitening is performed on teeth that have been devitalised and that show a change in colour, with the application of gel being done inside the tooth. The effect of whitening is, therefore, from 'the inside out'. This treatment is conducted individually, on isolated teeth that are darkening. This procedure must always be carried out in the office by the dentist.
2. External dental whitening
The second type, external dental whitening, can be performed both in the office and at home and aims to whiten the entire dentition. This type of dental whitening is currently the most common and involves placing the whitening gel in custom trays designed for each patient. The trays must be worn for a specific period, according to the dentist's instructions. Although it can be done at home by the patient, the dentist must always determine the amount of gel indicated for each case, as well as the duration of the treatment.
Although the type of treatment depends on the characteristics and needs of each patient, the technique that has been showing the best results is external dental whitening at home or in a dental office, given that the trays are personalised for each patient and the period of gel use is longer, providing gradual whitening with more stable results over time.
How to ensure that the treatment works?
In addition to the procedure itself, the success of dental whitening also depends on the care that patients take after its completion. It is important to continue prioritising good oral health habits, such as brushing teeth at least twice a day and using dental floss, as well as avoiding foods that may contribute to the darkening of teeth. Finally, regular follow-ups with the dentist should be conducted to effectively evaluate the results.
