Modern Australian
Men's Weekly

.

What is teeth whitening dentistry, and how does it work?


Do you want to achieve a brighter, more confident smile? Teeth whitening may be the solution you've been searching for! This popular cosmetic dental procedure can remove stains and discoloration from your teeth, giving you a brighter and more youthful appearance. Whether you choose an in-office treatment or an at-home kit, teeth whitening can improve your confidence and help you feel great about your smile. Let’s check out how this procedure can enhance the beauty of your smile. 

Why Do Teeth Get Stained?

There are many possible causes of stained teeth, depending on the type and location of the stain. Some of the most common causes are:

  • Over time, dark-colored foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and soy sauce can cause stains on the enamel surface of teeth.

  • Smoking and other tobacco use can also cause yellow or brown stains on your enamel.

  • When you do not maintain good oral hygiene, plaque builds up on your teeth, attracting stains and making them look dull or discolored.

  • Excessive fluoride intake during childhood can cause white spots or streaks on your enamel, a condition called fluorosis.

  • The enamel on your teeth can wear away over time, exposing the yellowish dentin underneath. Therefore, aging can be one of the reasons that teeth get stained.

  • Some medications, such as antibiotics, can cause intrinsic stains, which affect the dentin and appear grayish or brownish.

  • Dental trauma or injury can damage your tooth's nerve or blood vessels, causing it to darken or change color.

  • Some diseases or treatments, such as liver disease, celiac disease, or chemotherapy, can also cause intrinsic stains or affect the development of your teeth. 


Teeth Whitening Options

There are different options you can use based on the condition your teeth have. Some possible treatments include:

Teeth Whitening Home-Kits

These products come in various forms, including strips, gels, trays, pens, LED devices, and toothpaste. They can be used at your convenience in the comfort of your own home. It is important to choose a kit that is aligned with your sensitivity level, budget, and personal preferences.

You should note that although Home-Kits can improve the brightness of your teeth, they contain lower concentrations of active ingredients compared to those used in a dental office. As a result, you must use the kit daily for several weeks to achieve noticeable results. Typically, at-home whitening kits claim to produce results within 2 to 4 weeks. 

Teeth Whitening Treatment at Dentistry 

Bleaching or teeth whitening treatment at the dentist’s office includes rinsing teeth with powerful hydrogen peroxide, which may take up to 30 minutes, or laser therapy, which is a faster method to remove teeth stains. However, in most cases, teeth bleaching takes several sessions to achieve visible results.

Which Option to Choose?

Choosing one of the teeth bleaching methods depends on different factors. You should note that some treatments might not be the perfect option for your condition. Some factors that may affect the outcome of tooth bleaching are: 

Natural Colour of Your Teeth

Some people have naturally darker or yellower teeth than others, which may limit the effectiveness of tooth bleaching. However, there are still some cosmetic procedures to enhance teeth whiteness, such as veneers, which are thin shells that cover the front surface of your teeth to improve their appearance. 

Type and Location of Stains

First, you should know that there are different types of teeth stains. Some stains are extrinsic, meaning they affect the outer layer of your teeth (enamel). In contrast, others are intrinsic, meaning they affect the inner layer of your teeth (dentin).

Extrinsic stains are usually caused by foods, drinks, smoking, or poor oral hygiene. They can be removed by most tooth-bleaching methods. On the other hand, intrinsic stains are usually caused by aging, medications, diseases, or trauma and may require more intensive tooth bleaching methods or other dental procedures to cover them.

Therefore, the first type of stains might be removed by home-kit products, while for the second group of stains, it is recommended to consult a dentist. However, teeth whitening treatment is one of the regular dental procedures considered preventative procedures, usually done annually to prevent teeth from decay and discoloration. 

Condition of Your Teeth and Gums

In case of having tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, enamel erosion, or dental restorations (such as fillings, crowns, or veneers), you may not be a good candidate for tooth bleaching, or you may experience more sensitivity or complications after the procedure. However, if you visit a dentist for teeth whitening treatment, they will examine the health of your gums and teeth to assure you are choosing the best option. Otherwise, they may recommend you to treat the dental issues first to prevent complications. 

Does Teeth Whitening Have Side Effects?

Like any other procedure, teeth whitening can have some side effects, too. However, it’s very rare, but it is worth mentioning them:

Sensitivity

Teeth sensitivity is when you experience pain after consuming cold or hot drinks and foods. As mentioned, teeth whitening is performed with powerful bleaching products that some people might be sensitive to. However, this side effect is temporary and may not cause any damage to the teeth. But if you have tooth sensitivity for over a few days, consult your dentist to find the reason.

You should also note that the teeth whitening products are so powerful and should not stay on teeth longer than recommended. If you are using a home kit, always ensure you are not using the products repeatedly or longer than the recommended duration because it may cause permanent damage to tooth enamel. 

Gingival Irritation

When you use whitening strips or gels with peroxide, your gums can get irritated. This happens if the strips or gels touch your gums because the trays don't fit well or you didn't apply the protective stuff right. It is recommended not to use numbing medicine when you whiten your teeth at the dentist's office. This way, you can feel if the gel is leaking through the protective stuff and causing a burning feeling. If you feel any discomfort during the teeth whitening, tell the dentist so they can check if the protective stuff is still working. 

How to Keep Teeth White?

Some tips can help you prevent teeth discoloration:

  1. Maintaining oral health is the most critical step in keeping teeth white and bright. Therefore, follow a dental routine, including brushing your teeth with flouride toothpase at least twice a day and flossing after eating.

  2. Limit consumption of foods and drinks that damage the teeth, including coffee, tea, red wine, or any dark-coloured food. It is recommended to rinse your mouth after eating or drinking this group of foods.

  3. Quit smoking because it is one of the main reasons for teeth discolouration. Furthermore, smoking can increase the risk of other dental problems, including oral cancer.

  4. Don’t forget annual dental check-ups. Visiting your dentist regularly makes it more likely to prevent dental problems at their first stages. Furthermore, annual teeth whitening treatment can help you keep your teeth white 

Conclusion

There are various ways to achieve a brighter smile and maintain white teeth. You can achieve a beautiful, confident smile by practicing good oral hygiene habits, avoiding staining foods and drinks, and considering professional whitening treatments. Remember to consult with your dentist before starting any teeth whitening treatments to ensure they are safe and effective for your individual needs.

Source: What are the most common dental procedures?

Health Features

How to Choose the Right First Aid Kit for Your Workplace

Ever walked past your workplace first aid kit and wondered if that dusty box actually contains what you'd need in a real emergency? We know that feeling!  Most Australian business owners...

From White Belt To Warrior: How To Train Your Body For BJJ Endurance

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is as much a mental chess match as it is a physical grind. Whether you’re new to the mats or prepping for high-level competition, developing endurance is...

Invisalign Treatment: What Your Dentist Wants You to Know

When straightening the teeth, out-of-date metal braces are no longer the only option. Nowadays, Invisalign is among the most highly sought-after alternatives, especially for adults and teenagers who desire less...

Smart Health Decisions in Your 30s, 40s, and 50s: The Ultimate Prevention Guide

Making informed health decisions becomes increasingly important as we navigate through different life stages. What may have seemed unimportant in our twenties takes on new significance as we enter our...

Taking It Up a Notch: How 12.5kg Dumbbells Fit Into Progressive Overload Training

Photo by Jason Grant on Unsplash When it comes to getting stronger, more sculpted, and better conditioned, one principle reigns supreme in the world of strength training: progressive overload. This time-tested...

Finding the Right Dentist in Perth for Your Dental Implants: A Complete Guide

Missing teeth can significantly impact your quality of life, affecting everything from your ability to eat and speak to your self-confidence. Dental implants offer a long-term, reliable solution, restoring both...

Brisbane Road Accident Lawyers and Bus Accident Compensation

Navigating the aftermath of a road accident in Brisbane, especially one involving a bus, can be a daunting experience. Whether you’re a passenger...

Freezer Room Hire in Perth: The Ultimate Solution for Reliable Cold Storage

Ever found yourself in a cold storage crisis and wondering how to save your perishables before they go bad?   Well, this isn't something new. Pe...

Why Exterior Window Cleaning Is More Than Just Aesthetic

Most people see window cleaning as a finishing touch. Something you do before guests come over or when the smudges finally start to annoy you. It is...

How Duct Inspections Can Save You Money Long-Term

Ever noticed your energy bill creeping up without changing your habits? It is more common than you might think, especially in Melbourne homes where ...

Designing Secure Content APIs in Headless CMS Environments

APIs are what enable content to be delivered from a headless CMS to anywhere digital content can exist from websites and apps to IoT and more. Yet whi...

How to Choose the Right First Aid Kit for Your Workplace

Ever walked past your workplace first aid kit and wondered if that dusty box actually contains what you'd need in a real emergency? We know that fee...

The Role of Mining Equipment Suppliers in the Industry

Mining is one of the most essential industries, driving the global economy by providing raw materials for manufacturing, energy production, and infr...

From White Belt To Warrior: How To Train Your Body For BJJ Endurance

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is as much a mental chess match as it is a physical grind. Whether you’re new to the mats or prepping for high-level com...

Driving After Brain Injury: Common Challenges and How To Overcome Them.

Suffering a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can drastically influence a person's ability to drive safely. For many, driving represents independence, bu...

The Psychology of Stepping Up: Why We Avoid Helping—and How to Fix That

Most of us like to think of ourselves as kind, helpful people. We imagine that if someone needed assistance—especially in an emergency—we’d st...

Cross-Continental Collaboration: Nutifood and Viplus Dairy to Create Australian- Standard Premium Dairy Brand

Vietnam’s Nutifood has officially entered a strategic partnership with ViPlus Dairy, a heritage-rich dairy manufacturer with over 130 years of ex...

Commercial Plastering Can Boost Your Business Appeal

In business, appearances matter. The way your space looks sets the tone for how clients, customers, and even your staff perceive your brand. A well-...

How to Transfer Registration When You Buy a Used Car in Brisbane

Purchasing a second-hand car can be a thrilling experience, but there's more to it than simply handing over the cash and driving off. One very impor...

Expert Tips for Comparing Budget Movers and Energy Providers For a Modern Apartment

Starting a new life in a modern apartment can be a challenging yet exciting step. While moving into a modern apartment, people always need reliable ...

Slowing Down in Nature: My Experience on Orchid Classic Cruise in Lan Ha Bay

Why Orchid Classic is a Top Choice for Lan Ha Bay Lan Ha Bay, a hidden gem adjacent to the more famous Ha Long Bay, offers travelers a quieter and ...

Your Next Travel Essential? Why Aussies Love Lightweight Electric Wheelchairs

Planning for a trip or just getting around town? A lightweight electric wheelchair could be your perfect travel mate. Whether it’s a stroll throug...

Australian Study Woes – What is a Confirmation of Enrolment?

Recent changes to Australian study visas are altering the landscape for international students who want to learn and work on our shores.  To secur...

Metal lockers vs. wooden lockers: which is better?

Lockers—the ultimate background hero of the workplace. They might not have the flashiness of that overpriced espresso machine in the break room, b...