Teeth Whitening (Bleaching)

Teeth Whitening (Bleaching) is the process of cleaning the discolorations caused by colored organic-inorganic and mineral substances formed on the surface of the teeth, namely the porous enamel layer, with teeth whitening gels and laser application and restoring it to its natural color.

It is a bleaching (lightening) process performed using Hydrogen Peroxide or its derivatives. The substances used release oxygen. The color of the tooth also lightens with the separation of oxygen. This process allows people with yellow, brown or gray teeth to have whiter teeth.
Whitening should be applied to patients with healthy teeth and gums who have good oral hygiene. There is no rule that teeth whitening systems, which are cosmetic products, are suitable for every patient.

Today, there are many types of teeth whitening methods, including those that patients can apply themselves (home type) or those applied to patients by the doctor (office type).

The dentist should always decide which type of teeth whitening method is suitable for the patient.

What should be considered after the whitening process?

Excessive cold or heat should be avoided for the first few days. After the procedure, each patient has a diet list that they must follow. Any kind of coloring food or drink is prohibited. The first 3 days are especially sensitive, but ideally, care should be taken for 1 week-10 days.
Products that contain dark colors such as cigarettes, tea, coffee, chocolate, red wine, cherry, caramel, tomato paste should not be used for 1 week following the procedure. Otherwise, the whiteness obtained will return.

Who Cannot Have Whitening Procedures?

Teeth whitening is not applied to patients under the age of 16. In patients of this age, the pulp chamber and the nerves of the tooth are at their widest. If whitening is applied, the pulp will be irritated, excessive sensitivity will occur, and results that may lead to root canal treatment may occur.
Whitening should not be applied to pregnant women, patients with extremely sensitive teeth and receding gums due to gum disease, and patients who are allergic to the whitening agent peroxide.