Many factors contribute tostained and discolored teeth. Smoking, coffee, poor dental hygiene, and aging can affect teeth color. Most whitening treatments use hydrogen peroxide. This substance enters the enamel and turns into oxygen, erasing stains by disintegrating any color compounds.
Teeth whitening can be done professionally at a dental clinic or home using various treatments. Prescribed or over-the-counter (OTC) strips have a lower hydrogen peroxide grade than in-clinic alternatives.
While there are minimal risks, teeth whitening treatments can cause tooth sensitivity, especially in the first two days. These treatments help with superficial stains but may not eliminate deeper discoloration.
Teeth whitening cannot change the color of crowns, implants, and fillings. The procedure is not recommended for pregnant women and patients with exposed cavities.
In-office treatments use the highest concentration of hydrogen peroxide and give the most effective results. The dentist first applies a barrier to protect the gums and applies the gel on each tooth. Results are usually immediate, but patients may feel tooth hot and cold sensitivity for the next 24 hours.
Patients may also opt for take-home whitening systems provided by their dentists. These treatments are in the form of trays molded and customized to each patient. At home, patients can squeeze the whitening gel from a syringe into the tray and wear it for a specific duration as advised by the dentist. Results usually become noticeable gradually over 2-3weeks.
Whitening strips are the most popular OTC product available. The strips need application to the top and bottom teeth for 30 minutes. Because of low potency, it mainly targets mild stains on the front teeth. Other OTC kits include blue LED light devices that activate the whitening gel applied to the teeth. Dental products like whitening toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash can also help with overall oral hygiene with minimal effect on existing color.
