Teeth whitening is the same as teeth bleaching, which can be performed by a dentist or by the individual themselves.
In this process, using special materials like hydrogen peroxide, surface and deep stains on the tooth enamel are removed, and the natural whiteness of the teeth is restored. This method is safe, fast, and can be done in one or a few short sessions.
Join us in this article from Dr. Bonyanian’s Dental Clinic to learn more about this method of beautifying teeth.
What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a popular and sought-after method for whitening teeth, where stains and discolorations caused by food and drinks are removed using peroxide-containing compounds.
This process can be done professionally at a dental office or at home with special kits.
Teeth whitening allows individuals to have a more beautiful and attractive smile, thereby increasing their self-confidence. This technique not only yields remarkable results in the short term but also boasts high safety and efficacy due to scientific advancements.
Teeth Whitening (Bleaching)
Many people use teeth whitening services at dental clinics like Dr. Bonyanian’s Dental Clinic to have more beautiful teeth. Because white teeth are a sign of youth and beauty and play a significant role in facial attractiveness, teeth whitening (or bleaching) has always had many fans.
Note: The teeth whitening method is not feasible for crowned teeth, dental implants, and individuals whose teeth are congenitally dark.
Types of Teeth Whitening
Now that you know what teeth whitening is, it’s time to learn about its types. There are 2 methods for teeth whitening:
Home Bleaching
This is done at home using a device called a bleaching tray.
For more information, please read the article on “Home Bleaching“.
Office Bleaching
This is performed in a dental office using special materials.
Comparison of In-Office and At-Home Teeth Whitening Methods
| Feature | Teeth Whitening at Home | Teeth Whitening at the Office |
|---|---|---|
| Location of Procedure | By the patient at home with a special kit | By the dentist at the office |
| Speed of Results | Slower (over several weeks) | Very fast (in one or two sessions) |
| Degree of Whitening | Milder whitening | Whiter and more uniform |
| Materials Used | Gels with lower concentration | Stronger gels with higher concentration |
| Control and Supervision | Requires patient’s precision and adherence to instructions | Completely under dentist’s supervision |
| Cost | Relatively lower | Higher |
| Convenience | Easy to do at home | Requires presence at the office |
| Risk of Sensitivity or Damage | Higher (if used improperly) | Lower (with dentist’s control) |
What is Office Bleaching or In-Office Whitening?
Office Bleaching, or in-office teeth whitening, means whitening teeth under the supervision of a specialist dentist. In this method, where all stages are performed at the dental office, teeth reach their whitest state, without the need for prior treatment.
The only important point is that if your teeth have any microbial plaque or tartar, it is better to have a full scaling and polishing of both jaws before bleaching to achieve better results from your treatment.
The dentist’s expertise and skill greatly influence the final outcome of your teeth whitening. Of course, the duration of material exposure on the teeth and the quality of the bleaching material are also effective and determining factors in the final quality of in-office teeth whitening.
In-office teeth whitening achieves results in 3 to 4 sessions (each session lasting about 30 to 60 minutes) and brings you white, translucent, and beautiful teeth.
Stages of Teeth Whitening
The stages of teeth whitening (Tooth-bleaching procedures) include the following:
- Teeth Preparation: First, the whitening agent is prepared to be placed on the teeth, and due to chemical changes, it will cause the teeth to whiten.
- Light Application: Then, using a special device, appropriate light is shone on the bleaching material, and this material remains on the teeth for about an hour.
- Teeth Rinsing: After the specified time has passed, it is time to rinse the teeth. All these stages are repeated over several sessions, with at least a one-week interval between each session.
Materials Used in Teeth Whitening
Two materials, hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, are used for teeth whitening. Hydrogen peroxide is only used in the office bleaching method (in-office teeth whitening). However, carbamide peroxide is also used for at-home teeth whitening and by the individual themselves.
These two are chemical substances, and individuals need expertise and skill to use them. Therefore, strictly avoid obtaining these materials without a dentist’s guidance.
Advantages of Teeth Whitening
It’s Fast
Teeth whitening is the fastest and best method for whitening teeth.
It’s Cost-Effective
By spending once to whiten your teeth, you will have beautiful and white teeth for a long time.
It’s Safe
It is a completely safe method.
Immediate Visible Results
The result of the procedure (though in the office, not at home) will be visible quickly.
Disadvantages of Teeth Whitening
One of the most significant drawbacks and side effects of teeth whitening is the use of chemical substances to remove stains and yellowing of teeth. In rare cases, teeth may become sensitive and damaged when exposed to chemical substances. Also:
- There is no permanent and lifelong method for whitening teeth. Teeth whitening is no exception to this rule.
- Bleaching materials are chemical. Placing chemical materials on the teeth (even for a short period) will cause sensitivity in the teeth and gums.
Factors Affecting the Price of Teeth Whitening | How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?
The price of teeth whitening depends on factors such as the method of procedure (in-office or at-home), the desired degree of color change, the number of sessions, the dentist’s expertise, and the materials used. However, overall, the cost of in-office teeth whitening is higher than at-home whitening, albeit with greater effectiveness.
Post-Bleaching Care
Whitening your teeth helps you interact with friends and acquaintances with more self-confidence and not be afraid to laugh and show your teeth. Meanwhile, post-bleaching care is very influential in keeping teeth white, which we will address below:
- The first important point for maintaining teeth whiteness is regular brushing.
- If you consume caffeinated and sugary drinks, be sure to brush your teeth.
- Using whitening toothpaste is very effective in maintaining the longevity of bleaching and helps remove stains.
- If you like to drink carbonated beverages or iced tea, using a straw prevents stains from forming on the teeth and avoids direct contact of impactful substances with the tooth color.
- Try to avoid consuming impactful drinks such as tea, coffee, and juice during the first 24 hours after treatment.
- Foods and drinks that cause stains on clothes also affect teeth. So, avoid them after consumption as well.
- Also, avoid using colored toothpaste and mouthwash for 24 hours after teeth whitening.
Best Teeth Whitening Brands
Among the introduced brands for home and office bleaching, Ultradent (USA) and White Smile have been some of the most popular brands to date, available in different models and varying percentages of effectiveness.
Difference Between Teeth Whitening and Scaling/Teeth Cleaning
Both teeth whitening and scaling/teeth cleaning methods whiten teeth by removing tartar from the teeth. However, different chemical substances are used to perform each of these methods.
Scaling/teeth cleaning is a very popular method for cleaning teeth and removing tartar. This method greatly helps reduce bad breath and tooth discoloration. In contrast, teeth whitening is known as a tooth whitening method that also removes stains and pigments from the teeth.
Teeth whitening is purely a cosmetic procedure and causes less damage to oral and dental health compared to other methods. Ultimately, teeth whitening provides an attractive and radiant smile.
Difference Between Teeth Whitening and Dental Laminates (Veneers)
Teeth whitening is a method for whitening natural teeth using chemical substances, while dental laminates (veneers) are a type of thin ceramic or composite shell placed on the tooth surface to correct its color, shape, or appearance. Teeth whitening only changes the tooth color, but laminates can also correct aesthetic dental flaws.
Difference Between Teeth Whitening and Composite Bonding
Composite bonding is another method for beautifying teeth. This popular method makes teeth whiter and changes their shape. However, this composite has fundamental differences from bleaching.
Now that you know what teeth whitening is, you should have realized that misshapen teeth cannot be corrected using the bleaching method. Usually, those looking for a simple way to whiten their teeth choose bleaching.
However, if you are dissatisfied with the alignment of your teeth, composite bonding can be a useful and effective solution for you. The cosmetic composite method generally changes the appearance of the teeth, whereas no alteration is made to the tooth units with bleaching.
Final Conclusion
In this article prepared by Dr. Bonyanian’s Dental Clinic, we discussed teeth whitening, its advantages, disadvantages, and types. We learned that teeth whitening is one of the best ways to whiten teeth.
If you too would like to have more beautiful and whiter teeth, you can contact us at 00982188539720 and benefit from our telephone consultation services.
Also, if you reside in Tehran, you can visit Dr. Bonyanian’s Dental Clinic located at Arjantin Square, Ahmad Qasir (Bokharest) Street, 6th West Street, No. 22, Unit 7.
Dr. Nazi Bonyanian
Dental Surgeon (DDS) — Medical Council Number: 138662
Graduate of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences with over 15 years of experience in implants, laminates, and oral and dental surgery.
Address: No. 22, Unit 7, West Alley 6, Bokharest Street, Argentina Sq., Tehran, Iran
Phone: +98-21-88539720 | WhatsApp: +98-912-514-2202
Email: info@drbonyanian.com
Working Hours: Sat–Wed 09:00–20:00 | Thu 09:00–14:00 | Friday Closed
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