What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment aimed at transforming discolored or yellow teeth into whiter shades. This process involves using whitening agents activated either by Cool Light LED or laser light, which penetrate the tooth enamel to break down stains. The degree of whitening depends on external factors such as smoking, eating or drinking dark-colored foods and drinks, as well as internal factors like the composition of the teeth.
Does Teeth Whitening Actually Whiten Teeth?
Yes, teeth whitening does work to lighten the shade of your teeth. The effects usually last for about 6 months to a year, depending on the individual’s tooth color, the whitening agent used, oral hygiene, dietary choices, and smoking habits.
What Types of Cases Are Suitable for Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is ideal for people with issues related to tooth discoloration, be it dark or yellow teeth, or dull enamel. It is especially suitable for:
1. Those who regularly engage in social interactions.
2. People who consume tea, coffee, and alcohol.
3. Heavy smokers.
4. Individuals whose teeth have slightly changed color due to antibiotics.
How Many Methods Are There for Teeth Whitening?
There are two main methods: professional whitening at a dental clinic and at-home whitening.
What Is Professional Teeth Whitening? How Many Types Are There?
Professional teeth whitening at a dental clinic typically takes about an hour and offers rapid results. The effects intensify during the first 6 weeks and then stabilize. For sustained whiteness, it’s recommended to get treatments every 1-2 years. There are three types: Cool Light Whitening, Laser Whitening, and Zoom Teeth Whitening.
What Is Home Teeth Whitening?
For at-home teeth whitening, dentists create a custom tray and provide whitening agents for patients to use at home. The results take longer to show, and the likelihood of tooth sensitivity is less compared to in-clinic treatments.
Types of Teeth Whitening
There are three types of teeth whitening procedures, all of which are performed by specialized dentists at a clinic using advanced technology and equipment:
1. Cool Light Teeth Whitening
This method uses cold light, or LED light, to shine on teeth that have been prepared with a whitening gel. The light activates the chemicals in the gel, breaking down tooth stains and making the teeth appear whiter and brighter.
Cool Light or Blue LED Light is aimed at the tooth enamel to stimulate the bleaching agent, which removes discoloration.
Results are noticeable after the first session, which takes about an hour. The effectiveness depends on the initial tooth color. Gums are protected with a gel to avoid any damage from the whitening chemicals. The results last for about 6-12 months, and home treatments may be necessary for prolonged effects.
2. Laser Teeth Whitening
In this clinic-based method, dentists use diode lasers, which are low-heat and specific-wavelength lasers, to enhance the effectiveness of the whitening gel. The laser helps to break down hydrogen peroxide in the gel, allowing it to penetrate the tooth enamel and remove stains.
The laser pen-like design makes it easier to treat each tooth individually. The diode laser is FDA-approved for use with whitening gels. Results can last 1-3 years depending on individual dental care.
3. Zoom Teeth Whitening
This advanced technology uses LED light with up to three adjustable intensity levels for the bleaching agent. The treatment must be administered by an expert dentist and is only available at specialized clinics.
Zoom offers excellent effectiveness and the most noticeable results, lightening teeth up to 8 shades. It includes ACP (amorphous calcium phosphate) that helps to protect and nourish the teeth, reducing sensitivity.
Zoom teeth whitening is non-damaging to the enamel, includes a unique gel formula, and utilizes a specific light guide in tandem with its Zoom White Speed LED. It is highly safe, delivers fast results, and can lighten teeth up to 8 shades with natural-looking results that can last 6 months to a year. It is suitable for people with limited time or those who don’t wish to whiten their teeth frequently.
**Post-Teeth Whitening Care**
What to do and what to avoid in the first 2 weeks after teeth whitening:
- Be cautious with drinks that have strong colors like tea, coffee, red wine, and alcoholic beverages. It’s recommended to use a straw and brush your teeth immediately after drinking.
- Avoid foods with strong colors such as tomato sauce, yellow curry, and chocolate. If you can’t avoid them, it’s recommended to brush your teeth immediately after eating.
- Avoid smoking in the first week after teeth whitening, as the nicotine stains can easily stick to the tooth surface. Alternatively, brush your teeth immediately after smoking.
- Do not use colored toothpaste or mouthwash for the first 24 hours after teeth whitening.
- Regularly check your dental health every 6-12 months, as recommended by your dentist.
