Tooth Whitening

Teeth whitening is an aesthetic dentistry treatment that aims to make them acquire a clearer and brighter shade. Social networks and the media, which continually show famous people with perfectly white smiles, have made this dental treatment one of the most sought-after in consultations. From DENTAL-OFFICE.ORG, we say that the population must conceive dental whitening as a sanitary process that has to be carried out under the supervision of a dentist. Before this treatment, the patient must be examined orally to rule out any pathology, such as caries or gum problems.

The dentist must be trained to handle the bleaching agents used - hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide - following an appropriate protocol for diagnosis, procedure planning, and maintenance of results. Likewise, the professional must know the contraindications and possible risks to communicate them to the patient, for example, gingival alterations and dental sensitivity.

Poor oral hygiene and the consumption of certain products can alter dental staining. Thus, intrinsic or endogenous stains are caused by certain medications, vitamin deficiencies, fluorosis, blows, fractures, etc., and extrinsic or exogenous stains, which are produced by contact with pigments in beverages such as wine, tea, coffee, or the consumption of tobacco. Also, some mouthwashes and toothpaste with chlorhexidine can stain teeth.

Types of teeth whitening

From DENTAL-OFFICE.ORG, we point out the existence of two types of tooth whitening:

In the one carried out in the dentist's office: the professional apply the bleaching agent, which can be activated by a light source. Then, after checking that the mouth is healthy and carrying out the appropriate prophylaxis, the area to be treated is isolated to prevent the bleaching agent from contacting the gums. This is a very effective method.
The one is carried out at home under the dentist's supervision: as in the previous treatment, a revision and prophylaxis are made before the whitening. In this case, the bleaching agent will be applied in a splint made to measure the patient. The patient will complete the treatment at home following the dentist's instructions.
After this treatment, a white diet is recommended for the first few days, as the porosity of the enamel increases and the teeth may acquire unwanted pigments. Do not smoke or eat foods such as carrots, tomatoes, blueberries, blackberries, chocolate, etc., or drinks such as coffee, tea, or red wine. In addition, extreme dental hygiene is necessary. The dentist will give the patient the essential guidelines that must be followed when finishing the treatment.

We emphasize that a healthy and cared-for denture improves the personal image. Still, the obsession for a few white teeth can derive from anorexia which takes the patients to make dental whitening very frequently and without the supervision of a dentist. The consequences of this addiction can lead to gingivitis, dental hypersensitivity, and even tooth loss. Therefore, the population should be aware that the teeth are not pure white but an ivory shade that also depends on genetic factors and each person's lifestyle.
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