What is the best teeth whitening technique

A beautiful smile is characterized by clearer and brighter teeth. We explain the different techniques to achieve the best possible result. Remember that whitening toothpastes only serve to eliminate the superficial stains produced by foods such as coffee, tea, colorants… But they do not whiten the teeth.

Photoactivation or in-clinic teeth whitening

This is the type of whitening with which results are achieved more quickly. It is performed entirely in the clinic, and must be performed by a dentist. This is because it is necessary to separate and isolate the gum, lips, tongue and palate. It consists of a highly concentrated whitening gel and with a LED light lamp the gel is activated and the whitening is produced.

Teeth whitening at home

It is a type of whitening that is performed entirely at home, but under the supervision of a dentist. Molds are taken at the clinic to make transparent splints. Subsequently, the patient performs the treatment at home by placing gel on each tooth inside the splints. The time required for whitening depends on each patient, but it is approximately one month.

Mixed dental whitening

It is a combination of both whitening, the clinic and the one performed at home.

Internal whitening

It is a type of whitening that is performed directly inside the tooth. The tooth must be root-canalized (to compensate for the darkening that occurs after root canal treatment). Like the previous ones, it can only be performed by a dentist.

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How often is it necessary?

The dentin, or inner layer of the tooth, once bleached in its full thickness can take between five and ten years to turn yellow again, although without ever returning to the initial shade. With a few reminder doses we will have the white shade again post-treatment.

Are whitening mouthwashes effective or do they damage the enamel?

It is very important to distinguish two concepts: dental cleaning and whitening. Dental cleaning, whether performed by a professional or at home by means of toothpastes and mouthwashes, eliminates the external stains of the teeth produced by the ingestion of substances such as tea, coffee, wine, tobacco, etc. If what we are looking for is a real lightening of the internal color of our teeth, we should start a tooth whitening treatment directed by our dentist.

What about whitening toothpastes?

No. In addition, they can be of great help to avoid superficial staining of the enamel during whitening treatment.

Is it true that chewing gum is bad for dental health?

According to a study by the American Dental Association (ADA), chewing sugarless gum after meals prevents tooth decay. This is possible due to the production of saliva and the xylitol it contains.

In addition, it is recommended in patients with xerostomia or dry mouth, as it stimulates saliva production.

Chewing gum is not recommended in bruxist patients (jaw clenchers). It produces an overstimulation of the muscles, which can lead to unnecessary pain.