Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is an aesthetic procedure that allows for the whitening of teeth.

This medical act must be performed by oral health professionals, who make a correct diagnosis of the oral condition and select the most appropriate technique for each patient.

There are two types of whitening: at-home whitening and in-office whitening.

At-home whitening is done at home using whitening trays, provided by the dentist after explaining the entire procedure.

The whitening gel, carbamide peroxide, is applied to the whitening tray and is usually done overnight.

In-office whitening is performed in a clinical setting, with higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide.

Our whitening system involves applying the whitening gel under LED light activation, which enhances the whitening action.

There are also some over-the-counter products, which differ from professional products; however, many of them do not comply with European hygiene and safety standards.

When a prior clinical examination is conducted and preventive measures are taken, this procedure is safe and can be done for anyone who has good oral health.

This procedure should not be performed on individuals under the age of 18 or on pregnant women.

Written by Raquel Brandão Carvalho

Teeth Whitening: Truth or Myth?

1. Does it destroy the teeth? MYTH

Teeth whitening is a non-invasive treatment and does not damage the tooth enamel, which is the outermost layer of the tooth. Therefore, when performed with proper indication and under the supervision of a dentist, it does not harm the teeth.

2. Does it cause tooth sensitivity? TRUE

Increased tooth sensitivity (during and after the treatment) to thermal (cold) and chemical (acidity) stimuli is the main side effect. We are all different, and the occurrence of this symptom, as well as the degree of sensitivity, varies from individual to individual.

This symptom can last up to a few weeks (it is temporary), depending on the type of product applied, the concentration of the whitening gel, and other pre-existing conditions such as tooth enamel fragility or root exposure.

To alleviate the symptoms, I recommend using desensitizing toothpaste.

3. Does it have to be done in the dental office? MYTH

Currently, there are numerous solutions to make teeth whiter.

Teeth whitening can be done in the dental office or on an outpatient basis.

Ideally, an evaluation by the dentist should be conducted to determine if the pigmentation is of external or internal origin, among other factors that are essential to determine which “is the most suitable technique.”

4. Does it have low durability? MYTH

The duration of the teeth whitening effect varies depending on oral hygiene habits and other factors, such as eating habits and tobacco consumption.

There are situations where the teeth maintain the desired color pattern for a long time, while in other cases, a reinforcement may be needed sooner.

The guidance of the dentist is essential to determine whether or not a new treatment is needed.

Dr. Raquel Brandão de Carvalho

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Teeth Whitening: Truth or Myth? part 2

5. Can everyone do it? MYTH

Anyone with good oral hygiene practices and healthy teeth can undergo teeth whitening. However, this procedure may be contraindicated in patients with cavities, significant tooth sensitivity, or allergies to any of the product’s components.

Additionally, it is not recommended to perform this procedure on individuals under the age of 18.
Regarding pregnancy, no contraindications are known, but ideally, it should be performed before or after pregnancy as a precaution.

6. Do teeth stay white forever? MYTH

The effect of teeth whitening lasts for a variable period, depending on the foods and habits the patients are exposed to, such as the consumption of certain foods like red wine, tea, or coffee.

However, it is unlikely that the teeth will return to their original color. Therefore, patients can periodically reinforce the treatment whenever necessary to maintain the desired shade.

7. Is nothing needed before teeth whitening? MYTH

Before teeth whitening, a hygiene consultation should be carried out – removing tartar and external pigments. Additionally, the Dentist will evaluate the oral cavity and determine if other treatments are necessary, such as descaling, restoration, etc., which may or may not “delay” this treatment.

8. Should I take care after teeth whitening? TRUE

Proper oral hygiene is essential, both before and after the treatment. Additionally, it is important to avoid tobacco and foods such as coffee, red wine, red fruits, tomatoes, among others, due to the high concentration of pigments that may compromise the results of the teeth whitening.

Dr. Raquel Brandão de Carvalho

APPOINTMENT

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