Here’s what you need to know about Teeth Whitening Treatment

As teeth whitening becomes more popular, it’s only natural that we become curious about it. After all, having bright, white teeth that look healthy can boost our confidence and improve our overall appearance. But what exactly is teeth whitening, and does it really work as well as people say?

Currently, teeth whitening is widely popular because it helps improve one’s personality and boosts confidence. We see more young people and working adults seeking to have a bright, clean smile with white teeth. But is teeth whitening really as effective as the rumors suggest? What is teeth whitening, and does it solve the problem we’re looking to fix? How much does it cost? If you’re considering teeth whitening and have these questions in mind, we have the answers for you.

What is teeth whitening? Can it really make your teeth whiter?

Teeth whitening, or teeth whitening treatment, is a dental procedure that helps resolve issues with dull, discolored teeth, restoring them to a naturally bright, white appearance. When done with a dentist, teeth whitening can effectively make your teeth whiter. It is an important procedure that is just as crucial as other dental care methods and is considered a Dental One Day Solution, meaning your teeth can be white and clean again within a single day.

Who is suitable for teeth whitening?

• People who frequently use their smile for communication and interacting with others.
• People with naturally dull or discolored teeth.
• People with yellowing teeth due to:
  • The color of foods and drinks like tea, coffee, sodas, etc.
  • Regular consumption of spicy or sour foods.
  • Smoking.
  • Certain medications, such as antibiotics like Tetracycline and Doxycycline.
• People with darkened teeth due to:
  • Accumulation of pigments inside the tooth during its formation.
  • Non-vital discoloration, which may occur due to trauma or accidents affecting the tooth, tooth decay, tooth wear, cracks, or severe periodontal disease that leads to infection, but not receiving proper treatment, eventually causing the tooth to die.

Who should avoid teeth whitening?

• Pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding, as their gums and teeth may be more sensitive to irritation. There is also a risk that chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide could be absorbed into the body, potentially affecting the fetus.
• Individuals under the age of 16, as their teeth are still developing, which could increase the chances of complications or side effects from teeth whitening.
• People with gum diseases, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, as the condition of their gums may worsen, increasing the risk of side effects.
• Individuals with sensitive teeth, cavities, fillings, or other oral health issues should consult a dentist before undergoing teeth whitening. Whitening could cause increased tooth sensitivity during the procedure. It’s recommended to ensure the teeth and gums are in healthy condition before proceeding with whitening.

Types of Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening can be done in two main types: by a dentist and at home. Each method has different details, benefits, and precautions:

Professional Teeth Whitening by a Dentist

• Cool Light Teeth Whitening: This method involves applying a hydrogen peroxide-based whitening gel to the teeth and using concentrated blue LED light to activate the gel. The light helps remove stains and brighten the teeth, making them look whiter and fresher.
• Diode Laser Whitening: This method uses diode laser light to activate the whitening gel, allowing it to penetrate the teeth more effectively. It helps remove stains and discoloration on the teeth rapidly.
• Zoom Whitening: A new innovation from PHILIPS, Zoom uses blue LED light technology that adjusts to three intensity levels based on the natural color of the teeth. It is safe, effective, and results in whiter teeth with longer-lasting effects compared to other whitening methods.
• Pola Whitening: This method uses high-concentration Pola whitening gel from SDI Limited. It delivers immediate results and is safe for the teeth, offering effective whitening without the need for light activation. The Pola Desensitizing Technology reduces tooth sensitivity, making it a highly effective option for many people.

Choosing the right teeth whitening method depends on the cause and severity of tooth discoloration. A dental professional will assess your individual needs and recommend the most appropriate option for you.

At-home Teeth Whitening

• Over-the-counter Bleaching: You can purchase teeth whitening products from supermarkets, convenience stores, or pharmacies, such as whitening toothpaste, gels, mouthwashes, or pens.
• At-home Bleaching (Custom Trays): This method requires a visit to the dentist to take impressions and create custom whitening trays. The dentist provides whitening gel and instructions on how to use it effectively at home.
• In-office Assisted Bleaching: This method combines professional whitening at the dental office with continued at-home whitening. If your teeth are severely discolored, the dentist will perform initial whitening at the clinic, then provide you with the necessary equipment and gel to continue whitening at home.

For safety, it is advisable to consult a dentist before attempting at-home whitening. The best results come from having teeth professionally whitened by a dentist for clear, fast, and safe outcomes.

Preparation Before Teeth Whitening

• Scaling and Polishing: It is recommended to have a professional cleaning, including scaling and polishing, before whitening your teeth. This will remove tartar and plaque, ensuring the whitening treatment is more effective.
• Treat Cavities or Cracked Teeth: If you have cavities or cracked teeth, make sure to have them treated and filled before undergoing whitening. This ensures that the whitening process does not cause any issues with damaged teeth.
• Use Sensitivity-Reducing Toothpaste: If you are prone to tooth sensitivity, using toothpaste containing potassium nitrate can help reduce sensitivity before the whitening treatment.

Teeth Whitening Pricing

The cost of teeth whitening varies depending on the clinic or dental facility where the treatment is done. For example, at The Tooth Club, the price for teeth whitening starts at 7,000 THB. In addition to teeth whitening services, they often offer promotions in combination with other treatments. If you’re interested in receiving teeth whitening at The Tooth Club, you can contact them for more details and to schedule a free consultation.

How Long Do Teeth Whitening Results Last?

The results of teeth whitening can last up to 1 year, depending on factors such as the original color of your teeth, the quality of the whitening products and equipment used, and how well you maintain your oral health after the treatment. Proper care and maintenance can help prolong the whiteness of your teeth.

How to Maintain Whiter Teeth After Whitening:

• Avoid Dark-Colored Foods and Drinks: Refrain from consuming beverages and foods that stain, such as tea, coffee, and avoid smoking for at least 2 weeks after whitening.
• Brush Your Teeth Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and always after meals to remove food particles and stains.
• Use Dental Floss: Clean your teeth with dental floss 1-2 times daily to remove plaque and debris between your teeth.
• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Schedule a dental check-up every 6 months to have your teeth professionally cleaned and to remove any plaque buildup.

FAQs

• How long does the teeth whitening process take?

Answer: It takes approximately 1 hour.

• Can teeth whitening be covered by social security insurance?

Answer: No, teeth whitening cannot be covered by social security insurance. Only dental treatments related to medical care are covered, while whitening falls under esthetic dentistry.

• Does teeth whitening cause increased tooth sensitivity?

Answer: Sensitivity and gum irritation are possible side effects right after the whitening procedure, but these typically subside within 2-3 days. Using toothpaste with potassium nitrate can help alleviate sensitivity.

• Does teeth whitening make the enamel thinner?

Answer: No, the whitening agents only react with the stains within the tooth structure and brighten the color. The enamel and tooth surface remain unchanged, without becoming thinner.

• Can I get teeth whitening while undergoing orthodontic treatment?

Answer: It’s not recommended because the braces (brackets) may cause uneven whitening results. It’s better to wait 3-6 months after removing braces before whitening your teeth.

• Is teeth whitening painful?

Answer: It’s generally not painful, but you might experience temporary sensitivity in the teeth, a sore jaw from holding your mouth open, or a slight burning sensation around the lips due to the whitening light.