Teeth Whitening
Professional medical service of RMI
Teeth whitening, also known as tooth bleaching, is a cosmetic dental procedure aimed at lightening the color of teeth and removing stains and discoloration. It is one of the most popular and non-invasive ways to enhance the appearance of your smile. Here’s an overview of teeth whitening:
- Cosmetic Enhancement: Dental veneers are primarily used for cosmetic purposes. They can address various aesthetic imperfections, including:
- Discoloration or staining that doesn’t respond well to teeth whitening.
Teeth that are discolored due to root canal treatments or tetracycline stains.
Teeth that are misshapen, uneven, or have irregular contours.
- Gaps or spaces between teeth.
Teeth that are slightly crooked or misaligned. - Strengthening and Protection: While veneers are primarily a cosmetic solution, they can also provide some protection to the underlying tooth structure. In cases where a tooth is slightly chipped or worn, a veneer can cover and protect it.
Purpose of Teeth Whitening
The primary purpose of teeth whitening is to improve the aesthetics of your smile by addressing common dental issues such as:
- Stains: Teeth can become stained from the consumption of certain foods and beverages (e.g., coffee, tea, red wine), smoking, or as a natural part of the aging process.
- Discoloration: Some people may have teeth that are naturally more yellow or gray in color due to genetics.
Surface Stains: Surface stains can develop over time due to the accumulation of plaque and tartar on teeth.
Types of Teeth Whitening
- In-Office Whitening: This is a professional teeth whitening procedure performed in a dental office.
A strong bleaching agent, often containing hydrogen peroxide, is applied to the teeth.
Special lights or lasers may be used to enhance the whitening process.
In-office whitening typically provides fast and dramatic results in a single visit. - At-Home Whitening Kits: Dentist-prescribed at-home kits include custom-made trays that fit your teeth.
You’ll be provided with a lower-concentration bleaching gel to use at home.
These kits are used over a period of several days to weeks, depending on the desired level of whitening. - Over-the-Counter (OTC) Products: OTC teeth whitening products, such as whitening strips, gels, and toothpaste, are available without a prescription.
These products are generally less potent than professional options and may require longer usage for noticeable results.
How Teeth Whitening Works
Teeth whitening works by breaking down stains and discoloration into smaller, less visible particles. The bleaching agent, usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, penetrates the tooth enamel and oxidizes the stains, making the teeth appear whiter
Aftercare and Maintenance
After teeth whitening, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices to prevent new stains from forming.
This includes regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.
Avoid or limit the consumption of staining substances like coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco.
Some people may experience temporary tooth sensitivity after whitening, which usually subsides within a few days. Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help.
