Nothing can display health, and even success in the eyes of people around us as a white sparkling smile.

It is then no surprise that many people pay so much attention to the appearance and whiteness of their teeth.

In fact, teeth whitening (bleaching) acts the same as low-cost cosmetics enhancing and signifying a pale smile.

This can be done with various types of products and techniques, either at home or at a dentist’s office.

Materials

Your dentist can provide you with a lot of help in this regard.

Your dentist first examines your teeth to ensure the cause of their discoloration, then decides on effective and efficient methods specific to your situation.

In-office teeth whitening is applied in a high percentage, and by a dentist, and achieves a faster result. Bleaching at home increases the whitening effect of the teeth.

Bleaching procedure

Bleaching materials are made of chemicals called hydrogen peroxide. These materials infiltrate the crystalline structure of the enamel, and cause pigments deposited in between the enamel pyramids to oxidize. Then the bleaching oxidizing agents penetrate into the crown of the tooth and the layer underneath the enamel, thus causing the color of the tooth become lighter.

Is bleaching a safe and secure method for my teeth?

Teeth whiteners are generally safe, because the chemicals used to attack organic molecules cannot affect the minerals of the tooth itself, and can only affect the pigments added to the tooth.

Yet, it is possible that your teeth get affected by some side effects such as a temporary sensitivity.

However, your dentist takes the necessary precautions to protect the gum surrounding the root, and to minimize the potential tooth sensitivity.

What causes discoloration of the teeth?

The causes of tooth discoloration are divided into two groups: extrinsic (outside) and intrinsic (inside) causes.

Substances that create stain when in contact with the teeth are placed in the extrinsic and outside materials.

The main criminals of the extrinsic tooth discoloration are tobaccos (smoke or chewing), tannin-containing food, such as coffee, tea, saffron, etc.

Age-relating tooth discoloration can be mentioned as one of the intrinsic causes of tooth discoloration.

As the result of aging, the tooth enamel loses its transparency and youthfulness, and becomes yellow over time.

Also, antibiotic over-usage, genetic disorders, tooth decay, death of the pulp, and root canal problems can be mentioned as other causes of intrinsic discoloration.

Teeth whitening methods

There are two methods for teeth bleaching:

In-office bleaching

In-office vs. at home teeth bleaching: In order to achieve better and more desirable results, both methods are usually recommended.

In an office, your dentist places bleaching gels with a high concentration on your teeth in a short certain period of time.

The whitening of the teeth with this method is faster and safer than the home remedy.

In this method, your dentist uses special protective gels to prevent any contact between the oxidizing agents and the gums.

At home bleaching

At home bleaching is performed by the patient under the supervision of a specialist.

First your dentist prepares a mold of your teeth, then gives it to a laboratory to build a thin and clear plastic tray out of your mold.

Now you are ready to do the bleaching at home according to your dentist’s instructions.

What precautions are required after bleaching?

It is better to avoid eating any dark staining substances such as coffee, tea, and colored substances, and also avoid smoking till the color of the tooth gets fixed. Limit sour fruits and acidic substances in your diet to avoid any sensitivity after the treatment.