Have you heard of teeth whitening methods? In today’s society, where beauty has gained a different meaning and has become a universal principle, one of the problems faced by other people is undoubtedly yellowing and discoloration of the teeth. An event that happens to the teeth as a result of age and eating and drinking, and depending on the type of teeth, the amount is very high for one person and less for another. But fortunately, there are treatment methods for this discoloration, such as immediate and long-term home treatments under the supervision of a specialist dentist.
| Operation Duration | Length of hospitalization | Recovery Time |
| 1 visit | Outpatient | Minimal to few days |
Teeth whitening or bleaching is a chemical process in which active oxide molecules released from the compound hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide penetrate between the enamel crystals, where they color the deposited pigments. You can never predict how much whitening you will achieve with this method and how long it will last. The result depends on the degree and type of tooth discoloration. Bleaching most slowly in smokers and people whose teeth have been damaged by tetracycline antibiotics. Whitening is safe if the teeth and gums are healthy and done under professional supervision. Before each whitening procedure, the patient should have all caries and defective fillings treated and removed from the calculus. There are generally two methods of teeth whitening, at home and in the office.
For at-home teeth whitening, dentists need to make carriers on which you will apply the whitening gel. Therefore, the first step is to take the measurements of both jaws so that dentists can make correctly relevant pages.
You wear the gel carriers for a few hours during the day, or you can wear them at night. This, of course, depends on the type and concentration of the gel. The whitening process takes several days, depending on the original color of the teeth. During this period and for three days after the end of whitening, when the final color of the teeth form, the patient should not smoke or drink coffee, tea, red wine, and other colored drinks.
Before each application of the whitening gel, you should clean the teeth thoroughly with a brush and between the teeth with an interdental brush or dental floss. It is better to use less gel, and if it overflows from the carrier, you should remove it immediately. Otherwise, you risk gum damage. We recommend repeating the whitening procedure 1-2 days a month to maintain the result. Overall, we think this method is slower but cheaper and more effective.
The other method is in-office whitening. Experts do this process directly in the clinic, which takes about 2 hours. This type of whitening guarantees an instant result. First, the dentist or dental hygienist thoroughly cleans the teeth with a rotating brush and polishing paste. It then insulates it with a special gel that protects the gums. Then the experts apply a whitening gel to the tooth surface. After the gel sits on the teeth for a few minutes, the experts rinse it with water and repeat this process several times. Finally, experts fluoride the teeth.
What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening or bleaching is applying whitening gels to remove natural or unnaturally formed dark discolorations in the porous enamel structure of the teeth. Whiter and healthier teeth are the desire of everyone nowadays. Teeth can darken due to various factors. As such, people may feel shy in social situations and cannot smile or act naturally as they wish. Over time, this can result in a lack of self-confidence and social withdrawal.
You may think that the color change issue is only a problem in appearance and that you should ignore it. But we must say there are different types of discoloration; they aren’t always just a simple yellowing of the tooth surface. On the other hand, additional treatment methods will depend on the type of tooth discoloration. That’s why sometimes the bruise doesn’t go away no matter what you do, and you’re disappointed that you got rid of it. If we want to categorize these color changes, we get three general cases:
- External discoloration: This discoloration occurs on the tooth’s outer surface and is the same as jaundice and turbidity common in society. People say that the tooth turns yellow. External discoloration occurs only on the tooth’s surface, doesn’t damage tooth tissue, and cannot penetrate tooth enamel. Classical whitening methods are very effective in bruises, and you can easily remove them. What they advertise as home remedies for discoloration is about changing the exterior color of teeth.
- Internal discoloration: The cause of this discoloration differs from the cause of external discoloration, and the most affected area is the tooth dentin and its inner layer. Sometimes this discoloration is accompanied by tooth enamel erosion, which indicates severe problems for a person’s teeth. You can no longer use external color-changing methods such as bleaching to correct this discoloration. Often, specialists in changing the color of the interior use methods such as laminate veneer and bonding.
- Discoloration due to aging: With age, the surface quality of the teeth decreases in different areas, both internal and external, which causes it to be associated with age-related discoloration. In other words, we can say that this type of color change is a combination of the two kinds of color change that can see by creating yellow and hazy spots on the teeth. Appropriate treatment for aging-related discoloration is veneer and bonding.
Bleaching is a procedure that many people apply today. The impact of developing technology in the field of medicine is evident. This allows for many options that you can use in teeth whitening. Bleaching with laser zoom is one of them. Before bleaching, the dentist checks the patient’s suitability for treatment. Dental cleaning takes place in the first session if performing the procedure is no problem. Afterward, the gel applies to the tooth, and irradiation is at 30-second intervals.
However, the intervals vary according to the patient and the device used. After the procedure, the gel and preservatives remove. Also, patients undergoing cancer treatment, those under 18, and patients with severe gum problems aren’t suitable for this procedure. There is no definitive scientific data for bleaching during pregnancy, but experts don’t recommend it.
Who Should Have Teeth Whitening Procedure?
The ideal candidate for teeth whitening must have certain conditions. It would be best if you had realistic and reasonable treatment expectations. People with gum disease, open neck (base areas of the teeth), and carious lesions of the teeth aren’t suitable for this procedure. For the system not to cause additional discomfort later on, they must first eliminate the existing problems.
Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under 18 should also avoid bleaching due to the physiological processes in the teeth during these periods. Along with allergic reactions to hydrogen peroxide, pathological or age-related erosion of enamel or deep cracks on its surface is contraindications. Bleaching is perfect for you if you have any of the following concerns:
- Coffee and tea stains: You know that your teeth may become stained due to excessive consumption of coffee or tea. If you can’t help yourself with tea and coffee, you can get rid of stains on your teeth with professional teeth whitening.
- Cigarette stains: Since cigarettes contain any form of tar and nicotine, they can create a large amount of plaque on your teeth. The teeth whitening method removes stains from smoking or chewing tobacco.
- Age-related discoloration of the teeth: The color of the teeth tends to darken with age. For many people, this darkening effect is unacceptable. If you want to regain your youth with pearly white teeth, our teeth whitening is just for you.
- Plaque and tartar deposits: Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining excellent dental health and overall health and your smile. If you don’t take care of your oral health, plaque and tartar can accumulate on your teeth and cause tooth staining.
What are the Risks of the Teeth Whitening Process?
At least 30% of patients experience severe pain due to bleaching instead of the pleasure of reflection in the mirror. You ask why? It’s all about the procedure itself. It is impossible to say whether bleaching will harm you personally, but know that this is no longer a harmless cosmetic procedure.
To change the tone of the teeth, dentists use a gel based on hydrogen peroxide. No matter which whitening method you choose, the essence is always the same, and dentists apply a gel to the teeth. The hydrogen peroxide turns into water and oxygen, penetrating the dental tissues and whitening the dentin. This is the most complex, thickest tissue of the tooth under which the pulp locate. It penetrates through the vessels and nerves, and there lies the pus. Oxygen reaching the pulp leaves a micro burn on it. This is the harm of teeth whitening.
However, bleaching is generally a safe procedure. As with any cosmetic dental treatment, there are some potential risks and side effects you should be aware of:
- Sensitivity: Some people may experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after the procedure. This sensitivity should go away on its own within a few days.
- Gum irritation: The bleach that specialists will use in the procedure may irritate the gums. To avoid this, follow the instructions given by your dentist or the whitening product manufacturer.
- Damage to restorations: Whitening products may not whiten fillings, crowns, or other restorations as much as they whiten natural teeth. If you have any repairs, you should discuss them with your dentist before having this procedure.
- Allergic reactions: Very rarely, some people may have an allergic reaction to the ingredients of whitening products. See medical attention immediately if you experience unusual symptoms after whitening your teeth, such as swelling, redness, or difficulty breathing.
It’s important to remember that over-the-counter teeth whitening products may be less likely to cause these side effects than professional treatments. This is because professional therapies are usually more potent and can use for longer. If you’re considering teeth whitening, talk to your dentist about the potential risks and benefits.
What Will You Encounter During a Teeth Whitening Consultation?
During the teeth whitening consultation, your dentist or dental hygienist will ask about your oral health history and bleaching goals. They will also examine your teeth and gums to ensure that bleaching suits you. Here are some things your dentist may consider during the consultation:
- The cause of your tooth discoloration: Some tooth discoloration causes by food, drink, or tobacco stains, while medications or the natural aging process can cause other bruises. Your dentist will want to determine the cause of your tooth discoloration to determine the best course of treatment.
- Condition of your teeth and gums: This process may not be suitable if you have untreated tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health problems. Your dentist wants to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy before starting the teeth whitening.
- The best type of whitening treatment for you: There are many different teeth whitening options, including over-the-counter products, professional treatments, and at-home treatments. Your dentist will help you choose the best option based on your needs and goals.
During the consultation, your dentist can also discuss the potential risks and side effects of bleaching and answer any questions about the process.
How Should You Prepare for Teeth Whitening Procedure?
Preparing for the teeth whitening procedure is just as important as the procedure itself. There are a few things you can do about this:
- Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before the procedure to remove any plaque or tartar.
- Avoid consuming foods and beverages that may stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, at least 24 hours before the procedure.
- If you have sensitive teeth, consider desensitizing toothpaste for a few days before the procedure.
- Report any medications you are taking to your dentist, as some medicines can affect the effectiveness of the whitening agent.
- If you have dental procedures such as crowns, bridges, or veneers, tell your dentist. This type of restoration doesn’t change color and can see after the process.
- Follow your dentist’s instructions for pre-treatment preparations.
- Following these steps can help ensure that your teeth whitening procedure is safe and effective.
How is Teeth Whitening Procedure Performed?
There are different methods for teeth whitening. You can whiten your teeth at the clinic or home. Either way, you’ll use peroxide-based bleach. Home kits contain 3% to 20% peroxide (hydrogen peroxide or carbamide). However, the dentist uses the clinic’s 15% to 43% peroxide solution. As a general rule, the longer the teeth are in contact with the solution, the whiter they become.
On the other hand, the higher the percentage of peroxide in the whitening solution, the shorter the solution should stay on the teeth. Prolonged contact of the whitening gel with the teeth causes tooth loss and increases tooth sensitivity. Each teeth whitening method at home or in the office has advantages and disadvantages, but consult a dentist before using home kits.
In-office Teeth Whitening
In-office teeth whitening whitens teeth faster. The solution is usually much more robust than home kits. In addition, specialists use heat, light, or a combination of the two to speed up the treatment and make it more effective. The most impressive results, namely teeth whitening of 3-8 degrees, can usually be achieved within 30-60 minutes in a single session at the office.
Some dentists use techniques that require a two-hour session. If you use home kits simultaneously with an in-office treatment, you can achieve satisfactory and long-term results. To whiten teeth in the office, the dentist applies a protective gel to the gums or uses a rubber shield (rubber shield) to prevent damage to the soft tissues inside the mouth. Then the dentist applies the whitening agent to the teeth and activates it with a special light.
Laser Teeth Whitening
Experts do laser teeth whitening only in the office. The dentist applies the whitening agent to each tooth and then heats it with a laser to make the gel work harder and faster. In this treatment, specialists use a potent whitening gel activated by laser, giving the desired result quickly. The bleaching agent is hydrogen peroxide, the concentration of which varies between 25% and 40%.
The dentist should take precautions when using concentrated solutions to reduce tooth sensitivity and prevent damage to the lips, gums, and other oral tissues. For this purpose, specialists use cheek retractors, rubber tails, or soft guards to cover the gums and anesthetic pastes that strengthen and harden tooth enamel.
Teeth Whitening at Home
There are several ways to whiten teeth at home, and check out the most common of them:
- Whitening gel and strips: You should apply these products directly on your teeth with a toothbrush or a thin strip. You should use these peroxide-based products on the teeth once or twice daily, usually for 10-14 days. The permanence of the result is four months or more.
- Plaque whitening systems: Experts fill the plaque with a peroxide-based bleaching paste or gel, such as a mouth guard. The patient should place the plates on the teeth for one to several hours every day for at least four weeks.
- Whitening toothpaste: This toothpaste helps to remove stains on the teeth as it has a mild abrasive effect. Of course, whitening toothpaste contains chemicals or brighteners that remove stains from teeth without using a bleaching agent. Whitening toothpaste is inexpensive and only makes teeth one shade lighter. Some whitening kinds contain peroxide, but the toothpaste doesn’t stay on the teeth long enough to produce the desired effect.
Many patients who want to prepare for an important event such as a wedding tend to achieve a dramatic result quickly. In-office bleaching is a suitable option for this group. On the other hand, at-home tri and gel teeth whitening will make teeth as white as possible, but this method takes more time and requires a month or two of patience and persistence. In-office solutions are often stronger than over-the-counter kits, whitening teeth faster. In addition, the dentist takes care not to irritate sensitive gums.
What to Consider After Teeth Whitening Procedure?
Check out the things to consider after the teeth whitening process we have prepared for you in detail:
- Follow your dentist’s instructions: Be sure to follow your dentist’s instructions for post-treatment care, such as avoiding certain foods and drinks or using special toothpaste.
- Use sensitive toothpaste: If you experience sensitivity after the procedure, your dentist may recommend using toothpaste for sharp teeth. These toothpaste can help reduce sensitivity and protect your teeth.
- Avoid staining agents: To help preserve the results of your whitening treatment, avoid foods and beverages that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, and red wine.
- Practice good oral hygiene: To keep your teeth looking their best, brush and floss regularly, and visit your dentist for regular cleanings.
- Touch-up treatments: Depending on the nature of your treatment and the rate at which your teeth are recoloring, you may need to retouch your whitening results with home whitening products or in-office treatments every few months or annually.
By following these tips, you can help maintain the results of bleaching treatment and keep your teeth looking their best.
What is the Recovery Process After Teeth Whitening?
The recovery process after bleaching is essential. Many patients seek advice on whitening toothpaste. However, we advise them to take a more fundamental approach. Many products are marketing gimmicks. The active ingredient of whitening toothpaste is hydrogen peroxide. It may be better to go directly to the source of the stain. Also, brush your teeth right after a meal to prevent stains. Always have a portable toothbrush and toothpaste in your bag, or choose a disposable toothbrush that offers both products in one device.
The answer to this question also depends on your lifestyle. First, you should enjoy life; then, you should whiten your teeth. Eating it will also stain your teeth if you think something will stain your t-shirt. These things can be tomato paste, ketchup, mustard, soy sauce, marinara sauce, or anything else delicious. So you can eat crackers, melon, cereal, and turkey. Stains can be reduced by drinking through a straw or rinsing with water, but brush your teeth afterward anyway.
The healing process after bleaching is usually minimal. Some people may experience temporary sensitivity to cold or hot food and drink, but this usually goes away within a day or two. If you experience prolonged or severe sensitivity, you should contact your dentist for further evaluation and treatment. Overall, the healing process after the process is usually quick and easy. If you have any concerns or questions, contact your dentist. The recovery process after teeth whitening is generally relatively short and uncomplicated:
- To reduce sensitivity, try using toothpaste for sensitive teeth or rinsing your mouth with a glass of warm water mixed with a teaspoon of salt. You should also avoid consuming very hot or cold foods and drinks for the first 24 hours after the procedure.
- It is also vital to avoid dyestuffs such as coffee, tea, and red wine for at least a day or two after the procedure. This will help maintain the results of your whitening treatment.
- Some people may experience sensitivity to hot or cold drinks and foods after the procedure. This tenderness is usually temporary and will resolve within a few days.
- Practice good oral hygiene. It is essential to brush and floss regularly after the procedure to keep your teeth clean and healthy.
- Follow your dentist’s instructions. Be sure to follow your dentist’s instructions for post-treatment care, such as using sensitive toothpaste or avoiding certain medications.
- In general, the healing process after the procedure is usually straightforward, and most people can return to their normal activities immediately. If you experience any unusual symptoms or are concerned about your recovery, you should contact your dentist.
How Long After Teeth Whitening Will You See the Final Result?
Generally, you should be able to see the final results of teeth whitening within a few days to a week after treatment. However, it is essential to remember that teeth whitening results may vary and may not be permanent. Depending on the nature of your treatment and the rate at which your teeth are recoloring, you may need to retouch your whitening results with home whitening products or in-office treatments every few months or once a year.
The time it takes to see the final results for each patient may vary. The time required to see the final results of the treatment may vary depending on the treatment used and the condition of your teeth. Here are a few factors that can affect how long it takes to see the final results:
- The severity of tooth discoloration: If you have severe discoloration of your teeth, it may take longer to see the final results of the whitening procedure.
- Type of whitening treatment: Different treatments can produce different results, and it takes time for the final results to show. For example, in-office whitening treatments can produce faster results than at-home whitening kits.
- Your oral hygiene habits: Good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding dyes, can help you maintain the results of your whitening treatment.
- Home treatments: If you use a home whitening kit, you may need to use the product for a few days or weeks to see the final results. These treatments typically use a lower bleach concentration than in-office treatments, so they may take longer to produce the desired results.
- Follow-up treatments: In some cases, you may need to undergo follow-up treatments to maintain the results of your whitening. For example, depending on the nature of your treatment and the rate at which your teeth are recoloring, you may need to touch up your whitening process every few months or once a year with treatments at home or in the office.
- In general, it is essential to be patient and follow the treatment plan recommended by your dentist to get the best results from your treatment.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?
Teeth whitening costs may vary depending on the treatment used and the dentist’s location. Different bleaching treatments also come at different prices. For example, at-home teeth whitening prices can range from $50 to $300 depending on the specific product and the number of treatments included. These kits typically contain bleach and personalized plaques that you fill with bleach and put on your teeth.
In-office teeth whitening treatments, also known as bedside whitening, can cost $500 to $1000 or more. These treatments use a powerful whitening agent applied to the teeth by a dentist or trained professional, which can produce dramatic results in a single session.
Laser teeth whitening, also known as power whitening, can cost $500 to $1500 or more. This treatment uses a laser or light-emitting diode (LED) to activate the bleaching agent and can produce results in just one session.
The cost of bleaching can vary greatly depending on the treatment used and the dentist’s location. It’s a good idea to shop around and get quotes from several dentists before deciding on a cure.
In Which Countries is the Cheapest Teeth Whitening Procedure Performed?
It is difficult to say which countries have the cheapest teeth whitening procedures, as the cost of dental treatments can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the dentist’s location, the type of treatment, and the condition of the patient’s teeth.
However, it is often true that dental treatments are cheaper in developing countries than in developed countries. For example, bleaching procedures may be more reasonable in Southeast Asia, South America, or Eastern Europe than in countries in North America or Western Europe.
However, it is essential to note that the cost of dental treatment should not be the only factor to consider when choosing a dentist. Finding a qualified, experienced dentist with a good reputation is essential to ensure you receive high-quality care. Here are the teeth whitening costs by country:
| COUNTRY | COST |
| United States | $300 to $1000 |
| Brazil | $280 to $810 |
| China | $300 to $800 |
| Japan | $350 to $850 |
| South Korea | $250 to $700 |
| India | $150 to $750 |
| Argentina | $270 to $800 |
| Mexico | $100 to $500 |
| Germany | $275 to $800 |
| Turkey | $100 to $600 |
| Colombia | $200 to $700 |
| Italy | $260 to $900 |
| France | $250 to $750 |
| Spain | $290 to $900 |
| Taiwan | $150 to $550 |
| Venezuela | $100 to $470 |
| United Kingdom | $310 to $1100 |
| Netherlands | $200 to $800 |
| Egypt | $175 to $650 |
| Peru | $200 to $700 |
| AVERAGE COST | $100 to $1000 |
Attention: For Information Purposes Only
Please note that the content of this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always consult a qualified dentist for personal guidance.
References
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https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002817714646183
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0011853206001315
https://europepmc.org/article/med/11908346
https://www.nature.com/articles/4812298
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4058574/
