Teeth Whitening| Precautions before and after

What is Teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that lightens the color of teeth and removes stains and discoloration.

In teeth whitening treatment, the process involves the use of bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which penetrate the enamel and break down the molecules that cause discoloration.

Teeth Whitening everything about teeth whitening — Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is done when you would like to lighten the color of your teeth. It is done when teeth become yellow over time due to various reasons. It is a practical way of lightening the yellow color of your teeth without removing any of the tooth surfaces and without making any unnecessary changes to the shape, and size of the tooth.

Precautions to take before teeth whitening

Before undergoing a teeth whitening procedure, it's important to take the following precautions:

1. Consult with the dentist: It's important to discuss the teeth whitening procedure with the dentist to determine if it is appropriate for you and to address any concerns or questions you may have.

2. Address any dental issues: Dental issues such as cavities or gum disease should be treated before undergoing teeth whitening to avoid potential complications.

3. Avoid foods and drinks that may stain teeth: Certain foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, and red wine can cause staining and discoloration of teeth. It's recommended to avoid or limit these items before and after teeth whitening.

4. Brush and floss regularly: Regular brushing and flossing can help remove surface stains and improve the effectiveness of teeth whitening.

Teeth whitening precautions before and after — Teeth Whitening- Brushing regularly

5. Use desensitizing toothpaste: If you have sensitive teeth, using desensitizing toothpaste before and after teeth whitening can help reduce sensitivity.

6. Follow instructions carefully: If using an at-home teeth whitening kit, it's important to follow instructions carefully to avoid overuse or misuse of the product.

7. Inform your dentist of any medications or medical conditions: Certain medications or medical conditions can affect the safety and effectiveness of teeth whitening, so it's important to inform prior to your dentist.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure the safety and effectiveness of the teeth whitening procedure and achieve optimal results.

Precautions to take after teeth whitening

After a teeth whitening procedure, it's important to take the following precautions:

1. Avoid staining foods and drinks: After teeth whitening, avoid consuming foods and drinks that can cause stainings, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored berries, for at least 24-48 hours.

2. Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to maintain good oral hygiene and prolong the effects of teeth whitening.

3. Use a desensitizing toothpaste: If you experience sensitivity after teeth whitening, use a desensitizing toothpaste to help reduce sensitivity.

4. Use a straw: When drinking staining beverages, use a straw to avoid contact with your teeth.

5. Schedule touch-up appointments: Teeth whitening is not permanent, and touch-up appointments may be needed to maintain the results. Consult with your dentist to determine the appropriate schedule for touch-up appointments.

6. Avoid smoking and tobacco use: Smoking and tobacco use can cause staining and discoloration of teeth, so it's important to avoid these habits after teeth whitening.

Teeth whitening in vaishali — After Teeth whitening - No smoking

7. Follow any additional instructions from your dentist: Your dentist may provide additional instructions specific to your teeth whitening procedure, so it's important to follow these instructions carefully for optimal results.

By taking these precautions, you can help prolong the effects of teeth whitening and maintain a brighter, whiter smile.

What is the quickest way to get teeth whitening?

The quickest way to get teeth whitening is through an in-office professional teeth whitening procedure performed by a dentist in the dental clinic.

In-office teeth whitening treatments typically involve the use of high-concentration bleaching agents that can produce significant results in a single session lasting about a few minutes to an hour.

During an in-office teeth whitening procedure, the dentist will apply a protective gel or rubber shield to protect the gums and then apply the bleaching agent to the teeth. The bleaching agent is activated with or without using a special light or laser, and with the help of special light which would help speed up the whitening process.

While in-office teeth whitening is the quickest way to achieve whiter teeth, it may not be the best option for everyone.

In-office teeth whitening can be expensive and may cause sensitivity or other side effects, particularly if you have sensitive teeth or underlying dental issues.

It's important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of teeth whitening with the dentist before undergoing any whitening procedure.

Frequently asked questions

1. Are teeth whitening permanent?

Bleaching generally has an approximate life span of 1–3 years, although the change may be permanent in some situations. The whitening effect won't last long if you smoke or drink red wine, tea or coffee, or tobacco, which can all stain your teeth.

2. Do teeth whitening cause sensitivity in the teeth?

Hydrogen peroxide has such a low molecular weight that it easily passes through the enamel and dentin and is considered to be the reason for mild tooth sensitivity occasionally experienced during treatment.

3. Why do I have yellow stains on my teeth?

Yellow stains teeth are found on the outer surface of teeth.

Yellow stains due to-

Cigarettes, pipes, cigars, chewing tobacco,
Coffee, tea, foods.
Poor oral hygiene, heavy plaque, and calculus level.

4. What is the quickest way to whiten teeth?

The quickest and fastest way is Professional teeth whitening or In-office teeth whitening.
Only by the registered dentist.
It will take 8-20 minutes for the procedure.

5. What is In-Office Bleaching?

It means you must visit the dental clinic near you. And teeth whitening procedure is done in the office of the registered dentist and that is why it is called In-office teeth bleaching.

6. I have sensitivity in all the teeth. Can I do teeth whitening?

It is contraindicated in Hypersensitive teeth.

7. Can tobacco stains be removed by teeth whitening?

Yes, tobacco stains are extrinsic stains and can be removed by Teeth whitening. Normally, It lasts for 1-3 years but teeth may get stained early if you continue taking tobacco.

Author-

Dr. Abi Negi

Dentist

10 + years of experience

Certification in Rotary Endodontics

Associate Fellowship in Laser Dentistry Certification in Practical Implantology

Certification in Laser Treatments Diploma in Practical Occlusion and Restorative Dentistry Course Advanced occlusion appliance therapy, TMD Comprehensive Course in Veneers - Ceramic & Composite Aesthetic Certified - Europe, Germany WHO Health Program Certified Certification in Laser Dentistry Fellow of the Academy of General Education (FAGE) Member of the Indian Dental Association (IDA)