Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures because it can significantly improve the look of your smile. However, there are different types of this procedure, and it’s essential to know which method suits you based on your circumstance. Here, we will go over the different teeth whitening types so that you can make an informed decision about your smile.

What Is Teeth Whitening?

As we age, our teeth become discoloured from our lifestyle, oral hygiene and eating habits. For example, smoking tobacco can cause brown or yellow teeth. Teeth can also become stained from drinking coffee, tea or red wine. Similarly, poor oral hygiene also leads to teeth discolouration because it allows plaque and tartar to build on the surface of your teeth, which can then cause staining.

Simply put, teeth whitening is the process of lightening the colour of your natural teeth. This is done by bleaching teeth in a dental office or using teeth whitening products to remove or reduce tooth stains. The effective bleaching agents used are hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide.

Different Types Of Teeth Whitening

There are two primary tooth whitening types, such as:

Professional Teeth Whitening

• In-Chair –
  This teeth whitening method is done in a dental office by a dentist or another qualified dental professional. They will apply a bleaching agent to your teeth and then use a special light to activate the agent. The process often takes about one hour to complete (may be lesser or a little more), depending on the severity of your teeth’s stains and discolourations.
  In-chair teeth whitening is the most effective teeth whitening method because dentists use higher concentrations of bleaching agents. This means that your teeth will be brighter and whiter after just one treatment. You may need a second session if your teeth discolouration is severe.
• At-Home –
  A custom-made whitening tray is made from impressions of your teeth so that it fits snugly over them, which you can only get from your dentist. You fill the tray with a gel or paste containing bleaching agents and then wear them for a specific amount of time, typically around 30 minutes to an hour.

Over-The-Counter Teeth Whitening

These are DIY teeth whitening products available for purchase online or at your local drugstore. These include:

• Teeth whitening toothpaste and mouthwashes.
  These are available over the counter and don’t require a prescription. Tooth whitening toothpaste usually contains mild abrasives, such as silica and calcium carbonate, to help remove or reduce surface or extrinsic stains.
• Teeth whitening strips and gels.
  These whitening products are also available over the counter. They contain a small amount of bleaching agent that you apply to your teeth for a certain period of time, usually around 30 minutes.
• Over-the-counter teeth whitening kits.
  These contain a bleaching agent and instructions on how to use it. The concentration of the bleaching agent is usually lower than what you would get from a dentist, so you may need to use these products for a more extended period to see results.
• Home-made tooth whiteners.
  Some people use home remedies to whiten teeth, such as baking soda, strawberries, coconut oil or lemon juice. However, studies about their effectiveness are limited, and in fact, experts say acidic fruits mixed with mild abrasives can actually damage your teeth by wearing down your enamel. While baking soda is found to have some teeth whitening effects, researchers have given it a low rating because it may not remove stains like other products.

Who Can Have Teeth Whitening?

While teeth whitening procedures are not invasive, not everybody can undergo such procedures. You’re likely a good candidate if you have healthy gums and teeth. However, if you have any dental issues, such as cavities, gum disease or sensitivity, you should talk to your dentist before getting any type of teeth whitening. This is because these conditions can worsen with bleaching agents. They may also recommend other alternatives with the same effect as this dental treatment.

Your dentist may recommend having an in-office teeth whitening rather than an at-home procedure if you have any of these dental issues. They ensure to assess your overall oral health and address any underlying issues before the treatment. But if you do a DIY teeth whitening, you might not be aware of any potential risks and may end up damaging your teeth or gums.

What Are The Steps Of Professional Teeth Whitening?

The steps of professional teeth whitening vary depending on the type of treatment you’re getting. But generally, the process goes like this:

• Firstly, your dentist will gently examine your teeth and gums to ensure you’re a good candidate for teeth whitening. Sometimes, they recommend an X-ray to check for any underlying dental issues. Additionally, they will ask about your goals and expectations from the treatment. They will also discuss the benefits and potential risks of the procedure.
• If you’re a good candidate and decide to get an in-office teeth whitening, your dentist will apply a gel or paste containing bleaching agents to your teeth. Then they will activate the bleaching agent using a special light. The light breaks down the stains and discolourations on your teeth so they can be removed more easily.
• If you’re getting an at-home teeth whitening, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth so they can make custom-fitted trays. Also, they will provide you with specific instructions on how to use the bleaching gel or paste.
• You need to go back for a follow-up appointment so your dentist can assess the treatment results and see if you need additional sessions.

How Do You Prepare For Teeth Whitening?

If you choose an in-office whitening treatment, there’s not much preparation required on your part. But it’s best to religiously follow good dental hygiene a few days before your appointment so that your teeth are reasonably clean. If you can, schedule your treatment on a free day so you don’t have to go back to work or school with extra sensitive teeth.

If you opt for an at-home treatment, your dentist will give you specific instructions on preparing for the procedure. But in general, you must ensure that your teeth are clean before using the bleaching gel or paste. It’s also crucial to carefully follow the instructions so you don’t damage your teeth or gums.

What Are The Risks Of Teeth Whitening?

Here’s a summary of the risks for both in-chair and at-home teeth whitening treatments:

• In-Office/In-Chair Teeth Whitening Treatment Risks
  • Tooth sensitivity from hot or cold food and beverages
  • Gum irritation
  • Temporary increase in tooth sensitivity
• At-Home Teeth Whitening Treatment Risks
  • Allergic reactions to the bleaching agent
  • Burns to the mouth, lips or gums from using a whitening tray that is too hot
  • Damage to the tooth enamel
  • Irritation of the gums

It’s important to note that the risks for at-home treatment are higher than for in-office procedures because dentists can closely monitor the process and ensure you’re not experiencing any adverse effects.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

In general, in-office teeth whitening is safe for most people if done by dentists or qualified dental professionals. However, remember that there are still some risks associated with the procedure. At-home teeth whitening is also generally safe, but there are some risks that you should be aware of. Discuss these risks with your dentist before you decide to whiten your teeth at home.

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Result Last?

The longevity of your teeth whitening treatment varies depending on the type of treatment you’re getting, as well as your oral hygiene habits and lifestyle. In general, in-office teeth whitening can last up to 3 years with proper care but can be as short as 6 months without properly taking care of your teeth.

At-home professional whitening can last up to a year or longer if you strictly follow the instructions and care for your teeth. For instance, since the process involves wearing trays for a certain amount of time, it’s important to follow this instruction carefully so that the results last longer. Also, if you still drink coffee or wine or smoke during your treatment, this can reduce the longevity of your treatment.

Meanwhile, over-the-counter whitening products generally only last for a few months before stains return.

Which Method Of Teeth Whitening Treatment Is Right For You?

If you are a good candidate and have the budget, in-office teeth whitening may be the best option because the results last longer, plus your teeth can become 2 to 8 shades lighter after your first session. Also, you have lower chances of risk because your dentists will take measures to protect your gums and teeth.

At-home teeth whitening is a good choice if you want to save money or are unsure if you’re ready for in-office treatment. However, only opt for this method if you are responsible enough to follow the instructions carefully and are comfortable using the whitening trays.

On the other hand, over-the-counter products are not as effective as professional treatments, but they’re a good option if you like to try out teeth whitening or if you want a quick fix for an upcoming event. Just ensure to read the instructions carefully and use the products as directed.

Final Thoughts

Teeth whitening dental procedures are cosmetic treatments that can do wonders for your smile, making your teeth whiter and brighter, thus boosting your confidence. It’s no wonder it’s a popular cosmetic dental procedure. However, you should understand its different types and their benefits and risks so that you can choose the best option for you, based on important facts. In addition, your budget and teeth whitening goals are factors you should consider when deciding.

Are you planning to whiten your teeth but are not sure if you are a good candidate? Contact Prospect Road Dental now at 08 9020 7002 to book a consultation. At your appointment, we will take time to discuss your options and answer any questions or concerns you may have. You can choose from our in-office or at-home teeth whitening treatments to help you achieve a brighter smile.