How does teeth whitening work?
During professional in-office whitening (also known as chairside bleaching), a highly concentrated peroxide gel is applied to the teeth to gently lighten the enamel. A light source activates the ingredients in the gel, allowing excellent results to be achieved even with a lower concentration. After the application time, the gel is carefully removed. The procedure can be repeated until the desired level of brightness is achieved. In our practice, we use the market-leading Philips Zoom system, which also helps to protect the enamel and reduce sensitivity.
If a tooth has darkened following a root canal treatment, we can perform what is known as a “walking bleach”. In this procedure, the crown and the upper part of the root canal of the affected tooth are filled with hydrogen peroxide for three to five days. The process can be repeated several times until the desired result is achieved.
Is teeth whitening harmful to your teeth?
When performed by a dentist, teeth whitening is perfectly safe. The dentist knows the correct concentration and how long the active ingredient can remain on the teeth. After whitening, teeth may be slightly more sensitive to acidic foods, but this effect can be reduced through fluoride treatment. Some temporary sensitivity to temperature may also occur.
How long does whitening last?
The longevity of whitening results largely depends on your lifestyle habits. If you drink a lot of coffee, tea, or red wine, or if you smoke, the effect will fade more quickly. The less you consume staining foods and drinks, and the better you maintain your daily oral hygiene routine, the longer your teeth will stay beautifully bright.
