Dr. Vázquez Vicent has a degree in Dentistry from the University of Barcelona and in this article she writes about teeth whitening. This method is the most conservative way to improve the appearance of teeth, since it is a very simple way to lighten the color of the teeth, achieving whiter teeth and recovering a more youthful and healthy appearance. It is a simple procedure, with hardly any side effects, although it must be performed under the supervision of a specialist in dentistry.
Over the years, teeth lose light, brightness and acquire a yellowish tone, partly due to a diet with excess in some foods such as red wine, coffee, tea, cola drinks and fruit, among others. Thanks to whitening, teeth can be lightened three or four shades, although some of the causes of staining must be taken into account, such as the intake of certain medications or excess fluoride, which can vary the results.
Types of teeth whitening
There are several types of teeth whitening:
- External whitening:
- Ambulatory or home whitening: consists of the application of a whitening gel in a transparent splint perfectly adapted to the teeth that the patient must wear at home for a certain period of time. This gel penetrates through the outer surface (enamel) and whitens the inside of the tooth. The color change is visible from the first days after application and is permanent, although small recurrences may occur over time.
- In-office bleaching: in cases of more intense coloration, cold light bleaching can be performed in the office. The concentration of the whitening agent is higher than that used in the technique performed at home and therefore the gums must be protected. A greater whitening is achieved in a short period of time.
The most commonly used technique is the mixed one, with a clinical and an outpatient phase, although in some cases and depending on each patient, one or the other is performed.
- Internal whitening: this consists of lightening an endodontically treated tooth that for various reasons has lost its original color and has darkened. It is a simple and conservative technique with unbeatable aesthetic results, since the external anatomy of the tooth is preserved intact.
The chemicals used are able to filter through the tooth, so the internal tissue undergoes an oxidation process that results in a lightening. The intensity of the lightening will depend on each patient.
What should be taken into account when it comes to dental whitening?
It is a procedure indicated for patients of legal age and with a healthy mouth. That is, without cavities, gum disease or any other oral disease. On the other hand, it can cause side effects such as dental hypersensitivity, although these symptoms are temporary. In addition, the effects of teeth whitening are long-lasting, although it is advisable to perform maintenance at least once a year.