Having pearly white teeth is a dream for everyone. White teeth not only make smiling more comfortable but also boost self-confidence and contribute to overall well-being.
However, the foods and drinks we consume daily can cause teeth to yellow and decay. Beverages like tea and coffee, as well as smoking, can lead to discoloration, even for those who brush their teeth regularly. Teeth whitening encompasses procedures aimed at improving the aesthetic and healthy appearance of teeth by lightening their color and bringing them closer to a bright white shade.
Teeth whitening, also known as bleaching, refers to procedures designed to make existing teeth whiter. The lack of sufficient whiteness in teeth can stem from genetic factors or from later-developed habits, such as dietary choices, that lead to discoloration. In such cases, whitening methods recommended by our dentists can be utilized for any tooth that does not have an underlying health issue.
Teeth whitening methods are divided into two types based on the application technique:
Power Bleaching: Performed in a clinical setting within an hour, this is the fastest, most reliable, and effective whitening system. It involves the use of a whitening gel and light, capable of lightening the tooth color by 3-4 shades in a short time.
Home Bleaching: This whitening method is performed using custom-made plastic trays prepared from a simple impression of the patient’s mouth. Whitening gels are placed in these trays. The desired level of whitening is typically achieved within 5-7 days. The trays need to be worn for 4-8 hours daily, depending on the gel and the desired shade.
Teeth whitening can be applied to all healthy teeth. However, the type of whitening procedure to be performed should be determined by the dentist. During the examination, the dentist evaluates whether whitening is necessary, whether the procedure is suitable for the tooth structure, and how much color change can be expected after the treatment. The procedure, which takes about 15-20 minutes per session, allows patients to achieve more aesthetically pleasing teeth.
The longevity of whitened teeth varies from person to person and typically lasts between 3 months to 3-4 years. For individuals with high consumption of tea, coffee, or tobacco, the duration of whiteness is shorter, whereas it tends to last much longer for others. By maintaining regular check-ups every six months and, if necessary, repeating the whitening procedure every 6 months or annually before the teeth revert to their original color, the whiteness can be prolonged. This approach also shortens the duration of the second whitening session and provides an economic advantage.
