BLEACHING

Teeth bleaching is one of the most common cosmetic treatments as it can significantly enhance the appearance of teeth comfortably and painlessly. However, bleaching does not protect against future tooth discoloration and can be repeated as needed. Before starting the treatment, Dental Mathi recommends scheduling a dental hygiene appointment with your dentist. Bleaching is not possible in areas with ceramic restorations or composite fillings.

At-Home Teeth Whitening

To enable at-home teeth bleaching, the Dental Mathi team creates custom bleaching trays for your upper and lower jaws. It is essential that these trays fit snugly to ensure that the bleaching gel remains in direct contact with your teeth, allowing for optimal results. A spacer ensures there is sufficient room for the bleaching agent. For at-home treatment, you fill the trays with the provided gel and wear the bleaching trays for several hours each day. Depending on the degree of discoloration and your desired level of whitening, you can achieve your desired results within 1 to 2 weeks.

Causes of Tooth Discoloration

After each tooth brushing, a thin protective protein film forms over the teeth, shielding them from acids in the mouth. However, this film can quickly accumulate stains, just like the very fine pores in tooth enamel can discolor.

The most common causes of tooth discoloration include:

• Tobacco use
• Consumption of coffee, tea, and red wine
• Poor dental hygiene
• Age-related discoloration

Bleaching and Dental Conditions

To undergo teeth whitening, your teeth must be in good health. Any cavities in one or more teeth must be removed and treated before applying the bleaching gel, as the gel can penetrate into the tooth’s interior through diseased tooth structure. If you suffer from receding gums, the exposed tooth roots may be yellowish, and bleaching will not be effective. In fact, bleaching can make the teeth even more sensitive. Bleaching artificial dental restorations is also not possible in the same manner as natural teeth.

Bleaching Risks

Teeth bleaching generally does not lead to serious side effects and is a straightforward cosmetic treatment. It may cause minor gum irritation afterward.

Please note: Bleaching should not be performed during pregnancy because the effects of bleaching on the unborn child are unknown. Pregnant women should consider the treatment after childbirth.

Duration of Bleaching Results

Bleaching does not protect teeth from future discoloration. However, with diligent oral care and reduced consumption of staining agents like smoking and certain foods and beverages, the effects of bleaching can last longer.