Teeth whitening is the process of lightening the color of the teeth and obtaining a whiter appearance. Teeth may lose their color and turn yellow for various reasons over time. Some teeth may be more yellow than others, and some may turn yellow as they age. The natural color of teeth can be affected by various factors. Dietary habits are one of the most important.
Teeth whitening methods help teeth to return to their natural color or achieve a whiter appearance. Every individual with basic oral care (no decay and gum problems), permanent teeth and a healthy mouth can benefit from teeth whitening.
Teeth Whitening Methods
Office Whitening Performed by a Dentist
These methods include professional teeth whitening procedures applied in dentists’ clinics. Office-type whitening performed by the dentist is more preferred than home methods in terms of obtaining faster and more effective results.
Office Type Teeth Whitening Method
Intra Tooth Whitening: The dentist applies a whitening gel to the tooth surface and activates it with a special light or laser.
Laser Whitening: The dentist applies a whitening gel to the tooth surface and then accelerates the whitening process using laser light.
The important point to remember is that teeth whitening may not be suitable for everyone. Factors such as the causes of stains on the teeth and tooth structure can affect the effectiveness of the whitening method. Therefore, if teeth whitening is being considered, the most appropriate method and treatment plan should be determined in consultation with a dentist.
In addition, it is important to maintain the whitening results for a long time with regular dental care and proper eating habits after teeth whitening.
Teeth Whitening at Home
Home teeth whitening refers to self-administered teeth whitening methods at home. Such teeth whitening methods can be carried out through products prescribed by dentists or sold in pharmacies. Home teeth whitening methods can be more cost-effective and provide ease of use.
Home Teeth Whitening Methods
Tooth Whitening Gels: Teeth whitening gels are whitening agents in the form of gels that are placed in special trays. The trays are attached to the teeth and are usually used at night or at certain times. The treatment period can usually last several days or weeks.
Teeth Whitening Strips: Teeth whitening strips are transparent adhesive strips placed on the front surface of the teeth. These strips contain whitening agents and are used for a certain period of time.
Teeth Whitening Pens: Teeth whitening pens allow you to apply the whitening gel directly to the tooth surface. The application is very easy and allows the targeting of stains on the teeth.
Activating Lamps: Some teeth whitening products can be activated with special light or laser to accelerate the effect of whitening gels. Activating lamps aim to achieve faster results by accelerating the whitening process.
Home teeth whitening methods usually require regular use and proper adherence to instructions. However, it should be noted that teeth whitening products may not have the same effect on all teeth and may cause sensitivity or other side effects in some people. Therefore, it is important to consult a dentist before teeth whitening and choose a suitable and safe product.
In addition, the results obtained with home teeth whitening methods may not be as effective as professional office whitening methods. If faster and more pronounced results are desired, office whitening methods performed by a dentist can be considered.