Teeth Whitening Treatment: How It Works

In a world where first impressions count, everyone wants a brilliant grin that radiates confidence. The secret to doing that is having white teeth.

Do you want your teeth to become dazzling whites? This article explores the treatments and concerns surrounding teeth whitening, delving into the intriguing world of this cosmetic procedure.

What is teeth whitening?

A cosmetic dentistry technique called teeth whitening helps brighten the colour of your teeth by removing stains and discolorations. Thus, enhancing the appearance of your teeth.

Teeth whitening can lighten the existing teeth’ color by many shades without causing any harm to the surface, even if it does not completely turn them to sparkling white.

Teeth whitening treatment is often done by dentists. However, it may also be done at home with specially custom-made trays and a lesser concentration of bleaching gel. Nevertheless, teeth whitening done at home needs to be done frequently compared to at the dentist to keep the color brighter.

What causes teeth discoloration?

Teeth discoloration, often known as tooth staining or darkening, can have several causes.

There are two main types of tooth discoloration: intrinsic and extrinsic.

Extrinsic discoloration

Extrinsic discoloration affects the outside surface of the teeth (enamel). It occurs due to environmental factors, including smoking, inadequate oral care, food and beverages, antibiotics, and metals like copper or iron.

These sources of coloured chemicals cause stains to form when they are absorbed into dental pellicles that have been acquired or directly onto the tooth’s surface.

Intrinsic discoloration

Intrinsic discoloration occurs inside the tooth, affecting the dentin (the layer underneath the enamel). Frequently, it is associated with factors like age, prescription drugs, dental injuries, genetics, tooth development, and high fluoride contamination.

Professional teeth whitening procedure (at the dentist)

This procedure is known as in-office whitening and is performed by a dentist in a dental clinic. Your teeth are treated with a syringe-loaded, high-concentration hydroxide peroxide gel. The gel is kept on for 15 to 30 minutes.

The process is often sped up by applying heat or light, like LED, UV or halogen. According to studies, the whitening efficiency of bleaching products is greatly enhanced by using light.

Approximately three repetitions of the treatment are required, contingent upon the rate of tooth whitening and the degree of sensitivity following the initial application.

Another study concluded that laser assistance might have a quicker and more noticeable whitening result than bleaching at home than discolored demineralized enamel.

Teeth whitening at home

Teeth whitening at home is a convenient and practical solution. There are several over-the-counter treatments and solutions out there.

Teeth whitening kits

The kits, which are intended for use at home to lighten teeth, usually come with applicators, whitening substances in a variety of forms, and occasionally other accessories.

Typical steps in using teeth whitening kits include:

• Step 1: Read the instructions provided with the kit.
• Step 2: Brush and floss teeth before applying the whitening gel.
• Step 3: Fill each tooth with a small amount of gel using the applicator or syringe provided to apply the gel to the trays.
• Step 4: Align and comfortably fit the whitening trays over your teeth.
• Step 5: Certain kits may include an LED light or require gel activation using a special light device.
• Step 6: Leave the trays in place for the recommended time.
• Step 7: Rinse your mouth well after carefully removing the trays.

Teeth whitening toothpaste

Compared to regular toothpaste, whitening ones usually contain stronger concentrations of abrasives and detergents to remove more stubborn stains.

Whitening toothpaste does not include bleach (sodium hypochlorite), but some contain hydrogen or carbamide peroxide in small amounts to help lighten tooth color.

Teeth whitening strips

Whitening strips are thin, flexible plastic designed to fit over the buccal surfaces of teeth and are covered in a gel that contains peroxide. After applying the strips to the teeth, they must stay on for the suggested duration.

Tooth lightening will be noticeable usually within a few days. This method can lighten teeth by one or two shades.

Teeth whitening mouthwash

Whitening mouthwash contains hydrogen peroxide and other oxygen sources so they can react with the chromogens. Additionally, whitening mouthwashes removes bacteria, improves breath quality, and whitens teeth simultaneously.

Consistent rinsing with the whitening solution can change the color of your teeth. A change in tooth colour of one or two shades might be observed after up to 3 months.

Teeth whitening gel trays

Over-the-counter whitening trays can be filled with whitening solution or come with pre-filled gel. These trays are placed over the teeth for a predetermined amount of time.

The National Library of Medicine stated that this method uses formulations of low-concentration hydrogen peroxide (4%-8%) or carbamide peroxide (10%-22%) that are placed into trays.

Whitening chewing gum

Teeth whitening gums are intended to prevent some forms of dark discoloration. They have extra abrasives or substances that facilitate stain removal by chewing.

Whitening chewing gum contains several primary ingredients, including tetrasodium pyrophosphate, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), citrate/citric acid, pyrophosphate, and oxide. It is well known that these ingredients give gum a rougher texture, which helps remove stains.

Natural teeth whitening

Natural teeth whitening techniques involve the use of natural materials or a change of diet.

Diet for white teeth

Natural foods such as crunchy fruits and vegetables like strawberries, apples, carrots, and celery can remove surface stains since they function as natural abrasives.

Stains can also be avoided by reducing the use of foods and drinks that stain, such as red wine, tea, and coffee.

Home remedies for teeth whitening

Some people suggest solutions such as baking soda for teeth whitening. However, it’s essential to be aware of the possible side effects of remedies such as these. According to Dr. Lucas Gan of mydentist®, “continual use of baking soda on your teeth could cause damage to the enamel that coats your teeth.” As such, it is better to use products that are specifically created for teeth whitening.

Are there side effects to teeth whitening treatment?

Here are common side effects associated with teeth whitening:

• Tooth sensitivity: Varies from little discomfort to severe pain. One thing to remember about sensitive teeth after using tooth whitening products is that the effect should only be temporary. In most cases, tooth sensitivity lasts no more than 2-3 days after the whitening session.
• Gum irritation: These products’ bleaching chemicals have the potential to irritate and pain gum tissue.
• Enamel damage: Whitening products might harm enamel temporarily or permanently if used excessively or improperly.
• Uneven whitening: Certain areas of the teeth may brighten more than others. Different enamel thicknesses or underlying dental problems may be the cause of this.
• Overuse of at-home products: Side effects might be more likely when products are overused or used in higher doses than is advised.

Although teeth whitening can improve your smile, you should be informed of the possible dangers and adverse consequences. If a dental expert administers the procedure, some risks can be avoided.

Therefore, speaking with your dentist to choose the best course of action for your unique needs is crucial before beginning teeth-whitening procedures.

Teeth whitening in KL

mydentist® is a cosmetic dental practice located in Kuala Lumpur. We offer teeth whitening services, dental implants, orthodontics, and other areas of dentistry. Our specialists and dentists are qualified to do any procedures you need to improve your smile and confidence.

FAQ

How long does teeth whitening last?

Several factors, such as the whitening technique, personal habits, and dental hygiene routines, affect how long teeth whitening effects lasts.

However, it usually lasts a few months to three years on average. It is significant to remember that smoking and consuming red wine, tea, or coffee may discolor teeth and shorten the whitening effect’s duration.

How much is teeth whitening in Malaysia?

Most at-home whitening kits cost less than RM1,000, making them cost-effective. The cost of an in-office teeth-whitening procedure can range from RM800 to RM2,000.

mydentist® advises scheduling an in-person appointment for a thorough examination before our doctors develop a treatment plan and provide price quotations. Our prices vary significantly depending on the needs and case complexity.

Despite the extra cost, many believe in-office teeth whitening yields superior results.

What to eat after teeth whitening?

It is best to select foods and drinks that would not damage your teeth or cause staining.

Recommendations:

• Water.
• Rice, bread, and pasta.
• White cheese and yoghurt.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Fish, chicken, turkey, and tofu.

Following teeth whitening, you should avoid ingesting anything excessively hot or cold since your teeth may become more sensitive.

How to use a teeth whitening kit?

A few processes are usually involved in a teeth-whitening kit, and they might vary according to the particular product you are using.

Go over and comprehend the directions that come with your teeth-whitening kit. There may be differences in the application and timing of different kits.

Who should get teeth whitening?

When someone has healthy gums, no cavities or other dental problems, and good oral health, they can safely undergo teeth whitening.

Suitable individuals could include those who don’t have allergies to teeth-whitening products like peroxide and who do not have extremely sensitive teeth.

Conclusion

The path to whiter teeth is a step towards becoming a more confident, radiant version of yourself, regardless of whether you choose in-office procedures or at-home remedies.

It is best to approach teeth whitening cautiously and under a dentist’s supervision. If you have any worries or inquiries regarding teeth whitening treatment, mydentist® provides individualised guidance based on your unique circumstances.