Teeth Whitening (Bleaching)

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Tooth whitening is an aesthetic dental treatment applied to remove color changes, yellowing, and stains that occur on the tooth surface over time, giving it a brighter and more aesthetic appearance. The tooth whitening procedure aims to lighten the natural color of the teeth and give them a brighter appearance. It can be applied with office type whitening (in the clinic) or home type whitening methods. Effective results are obtained without damaging the enamel by using special gels and technologies.

Causes of Tooth Discoloration:

Intrinsic Discoloration: Color changes in the internal structure (dentin) of the tooth. It can develop due to traumas, aging, excess fluoride, and antibiotic (tetracycline) use.
Extrinsic Discoloration: Stains on the outer surface of the tooth. It occurs due to tea, coffee, cigarettes, red wine, poor oral hygiene, and food dyes.

Tooth Whitening Methods:

Office Type Whitening (Professional Whitening): It is applied by the dentist in the clinic. The gums are isolated with a protective gel or barrier. A high concentration whitening gel (usually 35-40% hydrogen peroxide) is applied to the teeth. The whitening process is accelerated by activating the gel with laser or LED light. Results can be obtained in a single session (30-60 minutes). 2-3 sessions can be applied if necessary. It gives quick results. It is a controlled and reliable method. Sensitivity is usually minimal.
Home Type Whitening: The dentist takes the patient’s tooth impression and prepares personalized transparent plaques. A low concentration whitening gel (usually 10-20% carbamide peroxide) is placed in these plaques. The patient uses the plaques for 4-8 hours a day for 1-2 weeks.
Combined Whitening: Office type and home type whitening are applied together. While rapid results are obtained with clinical whitening, permanence is achieved with home type whitening.
Internal Whitening (Devital Whitening): It is applied to root canal treated, discolored, and internally stained teeth. The whitening agent is placed inside the tooth and closed with a temporary filling. The tooth color is checked for 3-5 days. When the result is obtained, the tooth is closed with a permanent filling. Natural color is obtained in root canal treated teeth.

Things to Consider After Whitening

Colored food and drinks should be avoided for the first 24-48 hours. Tea, coffee, red wine, cola, acidic and abrasive drinks, and saucy foods should be avoided. Smoking should be limited. Regular tooth brushing and flossing should be ensured. Care products recommended by the dentist should be used.

Who is it Suitable For?

Those with yellowed, stained, or dull teeth. Those who do not have gum disease before tooth whitening. It is suitable for those with discoloration in their root canal treated teeth.

Who is it Not Suitable For?

It is not suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women, individuals under the age of 16, those with gum disease or caries problems, and individuals with excessive sensitivity.

Whitening Results and Permanence

The effect of whitening usually lasts between 6 months and 2 years. Permanence depends on the person’s oral hygiene and eating habits. Results can be maintained for a long time with regular care and supportive treatments when necessary.