A row of snow-white, straight teeth, such as celebrities boast of, is rarely determined by the genes. Generally, it is the result of whitening procedures. Undoubtedly, white teeth are the most beautiful piece of women’s jewelry. Fortunately, various methods available nowadays can make this dream come true. Genetic factors greatly affect the color of the teeth. In addition, their color is linked to many other factors such as age, diet, hygiene, smoking, taking medication.
Two whitening methods can be selected. Tray-based teeth whitening, performed by the patient at home using an individually made tray and gel, which is self-applied by the patient. The treatment is monitored by the dentist. The advantage of this method is the possibility to use the trays repeatedly at a convenient time.
In-surgery teeth whitening is carried out in a dental chair, usually twice. The procedure is performed by the dentist. The results in both cases are comparable. In case of complicated discoloration, both methods are combined. On the other hand, in the case of non-vital teeth (after root canal treatment), which are significantly discolored, another method is applied. This is called internal bleaching, where a bleaching formulation is placed inside the tooth and replaced every few days.
In general, every tooth shade can be whitened, although different shades respond to this treatment in different ways. The result and the duration of the treatment is always evaluated by the dentist. In the case of teeth with a gray or bluish shade, a longer whitening time is required. Some discoloration, such as drug-induced discoloration, fluorosis, post-traumatic discoloration or discoloration caused by systemic diseases, is not responsive to bleaching formulations and requires aesthetic and prosthetic correction.
Whitening is a safe procedure provided that the method is appropriately selected for a healthy person undergoing this procedure. Contraindications include, for instance, pregnancy and breast-feeding.
The procedure starts with a thorough cleansing of the teeth and the application of a special protective formulation to the gums. Subsequently, the dentist covers the teeth with a gel, based on a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide (15-35%), which has bleaching properties.
The procedure takes about 45 minutes.
