Teeth whitening

In today’s era everyone is concerned about a bright smile and white teeth.
So Many times, patients visit their dentist asking for teeth whitening
But what is teeth whitening?
The most common misconception about teeth whitening is that, it is the same as teeth cleaning
But in reality It is not.

Both are different, teeth cleaning is the process where you remove the deposits on the teeth mechanically by ultrasonic vibrations or hand instruments and teeth whitening is the process where you make the teeth brighter through a chemical process.

Teeth whitening is done if you have,
1. Yellowish or darker teeth
2. Dark (brown, yellow) spots on teeth
3. A single black tooth
4. Reddish teeth due to habit of tobacco chewing
It can’t be done

1. If there are white spots on teeth
2. Sensitive teeth
3. Worn out teeth

Thus the teeth whitening procedure is done to make your dark spots lighter in general so that your teeth become brighter.

How is it done?
It is done in two ways
1. In office/ done at the dental clinic
2. At home
In office: In this the dentist applies a chemical solution to your teeth and then waits for some time. The dentist can also apply light (laser) to fasten the process. After the required time is completed, the dentist may again repeat if required.
At home: Dentist will fabricate a tray according to your jaw size, and will give the patient trays along with a material. The patient then has to fill the tray with the material and wear it for at least 8-10 hrs. at home.

Is the procedure painful?
The procedure is not at all painful and doesn’t require local anesthesia at all. You won’t require any pain killers even after the procedure.

Does it make the tooth sensitive?
Yes, it can but it is transient for a few days.
Is it harmful to the tooth?
It does remove a micro layer of your tooth as compared to teeth cleaning, but your dentist has the expertise to minimize the loss.
What are the precautions to be taken after the process?
You have to avoid colored foods like carbonated drinks, turmeric milk for at least 15 days or till your dentist advises.
Thus teeth whitening is a simple process but take the advice of your dentist as they can judge what suits you the best.