Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is the process of cleaning colored substances that have settled into the invisible porous structure of the enamel layer of the tooth with special teeth whitening gels.

 

Teeth whitening is generally one of the cosmetic dental treatments applied for patients to feel better visually.

 

Today, teeth whitening procedures are sometimes performed using products without conscious consideration and with unknown contents. Although at-home teeth whitening procedures are considered safe, they actually have risks due to the corrosive effects of the ingredients in these products.

 

So why do teeth lose their whiteness?

 

Dark stains can form on tooth enamel for various reasons. These stains can develop inside or outside the tooth enamel. Stains that develop inside the tooth enamel are called intrinsic stains, and those that occur outside are called extrinsic stains. These stains can result from factors such as excessive antibiotic use, high levels of fluoride exposure leading to thinning of tooth enamel due to aging, excessive consumption of tea, coffee, and tobacco.

 

What Are the Types of Teeth Whitening?

 

Our dentists always provide professional solutions and educate our patients. Sometimes patients may want to solve their mild stains with their own methods. Regardless of the method used, it's important to know that the full results of whitening may not be seen until about two weeks after the procedure.

 

Some methods used for teeth whitening include:

 

Whitening Products

Whitening products come in the form of toothpaste and mouthwash. However, none of these methods are as effective as the professional methods applied by our dentists.

 

At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits

At-home teeth whitening kits can be found as gels or pastes. These products contain fewer chemicals compared to professional products. Therefore, if we want more whitening, more applications may be necessary. However, none of these applications provide as long-lasting effects as the treatment methods applied by our dentists.

 

Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is a treatment method applied by our dentists only after evaluating the needs and desires of the patient. These methods always offer longer-lasting permanent solutions.

 

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

 

Teeth whitening is considered safe when performed by a professional dentist and applied correctly. You may feel sensitivity in your teeth for 2-3 days after the whitening process, which is a standard procedure.

 

What Are the Side Effects of Teeth Whitening?

 

The most common side effect is tooth sensitivity. This side effect can be reduced by protecting the gums.

 

How Long Does the Whitening Effect Last?

 

Whitening effects are always temporary. They can last from a few months to up to 3 years. Professional teeth whitening by our dentists can last up to a year or even longer with proper care. However, frequent consumption of coffee, tea, tobacco products, colorful or acidic beverages can cause teeth to yellow again quickly.

 

Is Teeth Whitening Suitable for Everyone?

 

It can generally be used by adults. However, due to the chemicals used and their side effects, we recommend not using it during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Approval from our dentists is always necessary for this procedure.

 

In short, just like any procedure, opinions of expert dentists should be sought for teeth whitening procedures, and the applications determined by them should be carried out. At the same time, attention should be paid to the dental care rules recommended by our dentists for long-lasting and permanent effects.