Teeth whitening – What It Involves?

Teeth whitening is a procedure ideally used to lighten the natural colour of your teeth or remove stains and discolouration. Whitening may be achieved by bleaching your teeth with special chemicals or using abrasive materials to remove surface stains.  

There are 2 types of teeth stains: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic stains develop on the inside of the tooth, in the dentin, and are caused by exposure to a high quantity of fluoride during tooth development, certain medications, or trauma to the tooth. Extrinsic stains are those that develop on the surface of the tooth, on the enamel. These stains are usually caused by smoking, drinking coffee or tea, or eating foods that can stain teeth. 

There are many ways to improve your teeth’s whiteness and achieve a beautiful smile. The best method for you will depend on your budget, the type and severity of your staining, and your personal preferences.  

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products are readily available and can be effective at lightening superficial stains. However, for more severe staining, you may need to visit a dentist for professional teeth whitening treatment. 

Professional teeth whitening is costlier than over-the-counter products, but it is also more likely to produce dramatic results. 

What does the teeth whitening procedure involve?   

The most common professional teeth whitening procedure is bleaching. This involves using peroxide-based bleach to remove stains and discolouration from your teeth. Bleaching can be done either in-office by a dentist or at home with a kit provided by your dentist. 

In-office bleaching is quicker and can produce great results in just one visit. However, it is also more expensive than at-home bleaching. 

At-home bleaching kits are less expensive than in-office treatment, but they may take longer to produce results. Your dentist will provide you with a custom-fitted mouth tray and bleaching gel to use at home. You will need to wear the mouth tray for a specified period each day, typically for half an hour to one hour at least once a week for a few weeks.   

Another professional teeth whitening option is abrasive cleaning. This involves using a rotating brush with special abrasive particles to remove surface stains from your teeth. Abrasive cleaning is usually less expensive than bleaching but can also be less effective. 

A dental hygienist typically performs abrasive cleaning as part of regular teeth cleaning appointment. However, some dentists may offer abrasive cleaning as a standalone service. 

Whitening toothpaste and mouthwash are popular over-the-counter teeth whitening options. These products typically contain mild abrasives or chemicals that can help to remove surface stains from your teeth. However, they aren’t as effective as bleaching or professional cleaning. 

What Are the Benefits of Teeth Whitening?

Here are some of the critical benefits of teeth whitening cosmetic dentistry treatment:

• Improved Aesthetics: The most obvious benefit of teeth whitening is a brighter and more beautiful smile. Whiter teeth can boost your self-confidence and improve your overall appearance.
• Enhanced Self-Esteem: A whiter smile often increases self-esteem and self-confidence. When you’re proud of your smile, you’re more likely to feel good about yourself in social and professional situations.
• Youthful Appearance: Stained or discoloured teeth can make you appear older than you are. Teeth whitening can help restore a youthful look by reversing the effects of aging, lifestyle habits, and staining.
• Increased Social and Professional Opportunities: A confident, bright smile can leave a positive impression on others. It can be an asset in social interactions and may contribute to better professional opportunities.
• Quick and Non-Invasive: Teeth whitening is a relatively quick and non-invasive dental procedure. In-office whitening sessions typically take about an hour, while at-home treatments can be done at your convenience.
• Customisable Results: Teeth whitening can be tailored to achieve the level of whiteness you desire. You and your dentist can discuss the shade you want to achieve, ensuring the results meet your expectations.
• Minimal Discomfort: Teeth whitening is generally a painless procedure. Some people may experience mild sensitivity, but this is usually temporary and can be managed with sensitivity toothpaste or other remedies.

Are there any risks involved with teeth whitening? 

Teeth whitening, in most cases, is safe. However, some people may experience side effects such as tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or white spots on their teeth. These side effects are usually temporary and will resolve once you stop whitening your teeth. 

If you experience persistent side effects from teeth whitening, you should consult your dentist. 

What is the cost involved in teeth whitening? 

The cost of teeth whitening depends on the method you choose. Over-the-counter whitening products are typically the most affordable option, while professional teeth whitening can be more expensive. Professional teeth whitening is costly because it is generally more effective than over-the-counter products and can produce dramatic results in just one visit.   

How often should I whiten my teeth? 

How many times a year you will have to whiten your teeth will depend on the chosen method. Over-the-counter whitening products can be used as often as needed to maintain your desired level of whiteness. However, professional teeth whitening is usually only recommended every 6 to 12 months. This is because the bleaching agents used in professional teeth whitening can be harsh on your teeth and may cause side effects with excessive use. 

How long does teeth whitening last?

The results of teeth whitening are not permanent. However, they can last several months to a few years before you must repeat the procedure. The length of time your results will last will depend on the method of teeth whitening used. 

Alternatives to Teeth Whitening

Many people want a whiter smile, and teeth whitening is a common way to do it. But it’s not suitable for everyone, and some folks like trying different ways to get brighter teeth. So, here are some other options to make your smile shine.

• Dental Veneers: Veneers are like super-thin covers made of porcelain or special material. Dentists make them just for your teeth, and they go on the front part. Veneers hide stains, discolouration, and minor flaws, making your teeth look whiter and nicer.
• Composite Bonding: This involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to the teeth to improve their appearance. It can cover stains and discolouration and is a less invasive alternative to veneers.
• Professional Cleaning: When you visit the dentist for a regular cleaning, the dental hygienist can clean your teeth well. They remove surface stains and hidden plaque. While this won’t make your teeth white like whitening, it will keep your smile looking clean and a bit brighter.
• Whitening Toothpaste and Mouthwash: Over-the-counter whitening toothpaste and mouthwash can help remove surface stains and maintain teeth colour. While they won’t provide dramatic results, they can be part of your oral care routine to keep your smile looking its best.

If you are planning teeth whitening, it is essential to consult with a dentist to make sure that your teeth are healthy enough to undergo the treatment. Once you have decided that teeth whitening is right for you, you must learn about the various options available and what each of these options involves.  

If you want to enhance your smile by making it whiter and brighter, speak to us. Our Care Family Dental Toorak Professionals professionals can offer you a range of effective teeth whitening treatments that suit your needs. Call us on (03) 9999 3328  or drop an email at . to schedule your appointment today. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS  

Is it good to whiten your teeth? 

Yes, it is good to whiten your teeth. Teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of your smile. There are various ways to whiten teeth, including over-the-counter products, professional treatments, and at-home treatments. Over-the-counter products usually contain peroxide or baking soda and can be used once or twice weekly. Professional treatments use stronger bleaching agents and can be done in a dentist’s office or home. Finally, at-home treatments usually involve using a custom tray filled with a bleaching agent that you wear for a minimum of 30 minutes each day. 

What does professional teeth whitening involve?

The first step in professional teeth whitening is an in-office consultation with your dentist. They will assess the stains on your teeth and determine which type of treatment is best for you. In-office bleaching is the most common type of professional teeth whitening. It involves applying a bleaching gel to your teeth and then using a special light to activate the gel. This process can take about an hour, and you may need multiple sessions to achieve your desired results. 

What are some popular at-home teeth whitening procedures?  

If you have only recently started experiencing discolouration, you might be able to get away with using a simple at-home teeth whitening kit or system. However, for severely stained or discoloured teeth, you may need to consult a dentist to get professional teeth whitening treatment. Some popular at-home teeth whitening methods include:  

* Using an at-home teeth whitening kit that contains bleaching gel or strips 

* Rubbing the surface of your teeth with baking soda 

* Adding hydrogen peroxide to your toothpaste 

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