How Does Professional Teeth Whitening Work?
The days of visiting the dentist only when there is a need to have a cavity filled or a tooth pulled are in the rearview mirror. Today, many see their dentists for cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening. The safest, most effective, and longest-lasting teeth-whitening procedures are performed in a dentist’s office.
Jump Ahead
- How Teeth Whitening Works
- Professional Teeth Whitening Methods
- Professional Teeth Whitening Pros
- Teeth Whitening Drawbacks
- How to Maintain Those Pearly Whites
- References
How Teeth Whitening Works
The American Dental Association explains teeth whitening as a simple process. Teeth whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide that breaks stains into smaller pieces, making the color less concentrated and your smile brighter. [1]
Professional Teeth Whitening Methods
In-office bleaching, also known as chairside bleaching, is performed by a dentist in the office using a protective gel or rubber shield to protect the gums, followed by an application of bleach to the teeth. This procedure usually only requires one visit. [2]
At-home bleaching trays are another option provided by your dental professional. With this method, your professional team will take impressions of your teeth to create a custom tray so you can whiten your teeth at home. Your dentist will give instructions on use. This procedure takes more time to see results than in-office treatments. [3]
Professional Teeth Whitening Pros
There are many reasons why you should visit your dental professional to have your teeth whitened. Let’s review the pros.
Professional Teeth Whitening Is Fast
One of the key advantages of in-office professional teeth whitening is the immediate results it offers. Patients leave the dental office with a noticeably brighter smile, providing instant satisfaction. In contrast, at-home treatments, whether dentist-prescribed or over-the-counter, work over time.
A clinical study in Operative Dentistry compared the results of three different bleaching techniques concerning the bleaching times required to achieve six grades of whitening in human teeth. It concluded that to reach the same whitening level as a one-trip dental office visit, the at-home bleaching trays took seven days, while over-the-counter products took sixteen days. [4]
Professional Whitening Can Address Intrinsic Staining
Intrinsic staining occurs when the inside of the tooth becomes discolored. The discoloration can be caused by genetics, developmental disorders, age, antibiotics, and too much fluoride. In-office whitening procedures can help with intrinsic staining. [5]
Why Professional Whitening Advice is Key
Even if you choose to use over-the-counter teeth whitening products, it’s advisable to consult your dentist before starting any treatment. Your dentist’s evaluation of the type and extent of tooth staining, as well as any previous dental work and oral health concerns, can significantly impact the success and safety of your whitening procedure. This professional guidance empowers you to make informed decisions and ensures the best possible outcome. [6]
Teeth Whitening Drawbacks
Teeth whitening is not for everybody, which is why it is essential to get a professional opinion.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of teeth whitening are sensitivity and gingival irritation. The ADA estimates that mild to moderate tooth sensitivity can occur in up to two-thirds of users during the early stages of bleaching treatment. [7]
Uneven Whitening Effects
According to the American Dental Association, only natural teeth are affected by teeth whitening procedures. Tooth-colored fillings will not change color, so patients with them may notice a difference between the two following the procedure. [8]
May Damage Dental Work
The American Dental Association also add that some research suggests that some bleaching procedures may change the surface roughness of the tooth’s enamel, which may affect the bond strength between the enamel and any filling materials present. [9]
Teeth Whitening Is Not Permanent
Teeth whitening is not permanent. This is not necessarily a drawback but can become expensive depending on how often you need to have it done. Depending on habits, hygiene, and overall oral health, it can last for a few months to three years. [10]
How to Maintain Those Pearly Whites
Those who take care of post-whitened teeth and follow the dentist’s instructions experience the results for more extended periods. Your daily habits concerning eating, drinking, and hygiene will ultimately determine how long you can maintain the whiteness of your smile. Here are a few aftercare tips from professionals to keep those pearlies white.
Avoid Teeth-Staining Substances
Colgate’s list of top five foods that stain teeth includes pasta sauce, curry, balsamic vinegar, berries, and beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, sodas, and energy drinks. [11]
Use a Good Whitening Toothpaste
According to The Journal of the American Dental Association, there are many effective whitening toothpastes that remove stains. Look for products that are safe to use daily as well as have the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance, which shows that they meet standards for both safety and effectiveness. [12]
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene goes a long way in helping to keep your smile white. Floss as much as possible after every meal and use a mouth rinse to reach areas not easily accessed by your toothbrush. There are whitening mouth rinses available, but again, look for the ADA seal of approval. [13]
Use a Straw When Drinking Stain-Causing Beverages
If you indulge in stain-causing beverages such as soda, iced coffee, and iced tea, use a straw to prevent the liquids from making contact with your teeth and thus prevent staining, or immediately rinse your mouth with water after consuming them. [14]
References
- [1][2][3] American Dental Association – “Teeth Whitening – 5 Things to Know About Getting a Brighter Smile.”
- [4] Auschill TM, Hellwig E, Schmidale S, Sculean A, Arweiler NB. Efficacy, side-effects, and patients’ acceptance of different bleaching techniques (OTC, in-office, at-home). Oper Dent 2005;30(2):156-63.
- [5] Carey, C. M. (2014). Tooth Whitening: What We Now Know. The Journal of Evidence-Based Dental Practice, 14 Suppl, 70. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jebdp.2014.02.006
- [6] Li, Y, and L Greenwall. “Safety issues of tooth whitening using peroxide-based materials.” British Dental Journal vol. 215,1 (2013): 29-34. doi:10.1038/sj.bdj.2013.629
- [7][8][9] American Dental Association – “Oral Health Topics – Teeth Whitening.“
- [10] NHS-UK – “Teeth Whitening.“
- [11] Colgate – “Five Foods That Stain Teeth and Six Foods That Prevent Them.”
- [12] Mark, Anita M., Getting Whiter Teeth, The Journal of the American Dental Association, Volume 151, Issue 10, 802
- [13] American Dental Association – “Oral Health Topics – Mouthrinse (Mouthwash).“
- [14] American Dental Association – “Oral Health Topics – Dental Erosion.“
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