Teeth whitening is a common cosmetic procedure that addresses tooth discoloration. It offers a non-invasive way to achieve a brighter smile. This process works by lightening the color of natural teeth, making them look fresher and cleaner. It remains a widely requested cosmetic dental service. This article covers what teeth whitening is, explores why teeth change color, and explains the whitening process.
Understanding Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a procedure that lightens teeth by removing stains and discoloration. This method is popular in cosmetic dentistry and improves how teeth look. A professional provides whitening options designed to be safe and effective, tailored to individual needs. Patients may choose whitening if their teeth lose brightness or show stains that brushing does not remove.
Most professional whitening products use a gel with hydrogen peroxide. This ingredient breaks down into oxygen and water. The oxygen molecules penetrate tooth enamel and dentin, breaking up stain molecules. This reaction whitens the tooth, not just the outer layer. Products are formulated for safety and performance, with a strong track record in dental care. The process is simple, with both in-office and take-home systems available.
Explaining the Causes of Discoloration
Teeth may become discolored for several reasons. Common beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine can stain teeth over time. Certain foods also leave stubborn marks. As people age, enamel wears thinner, so yellow dentin becomes more visible. Smoking or using tobacco leads to deep stains, which makes whitening a good choice for many people wanting to improve their appearance.
Discoloration can also occur for other reasons. Trauma from injury can darken a tooth. Certain medications cause color changes as a side effect. Genetics affects natural tooth color, so some people have teeth that appear more yellow or gray despite good hygiene. Not all discoloration is the same—some stains are on the surface, while others build up inside, affecting whitening results.
Describing the Treatment and Longevity
Professional teeth whitening starts with an initial evaluation. A dental professional examines the teeth and discusses whitening goals. For take-home systems, such as Opalescence, the office makes custom trays. These trays are paired with whitening gel and instructions on how to use them at home. The clear steps of at-home systems make them popular with patients.
Results vary in how long whitened teeth last. The Opalescence system does not provide permanent results, but teeth can appear whiter for months. Limiting stain-causing foods, drinks, and habits helps keep results longer. Light touch-ups help maintain a consistent shade as color changes are noticed. How long the whitening lasts depends on diet and dental care.
Find a Dentist
Teeth whitening is a straightforward procedure within cosmetic dentistry for people who want a brighter smile. It works by breaking down stains within the tooth structure and addresses discoloration caused by food, age, smoking, medications, or trauma. A professional plan gives reliable results through in-office or take-home options. Maintaining results usually involves periodic touch-ups and daily care. Find a dentist in your area for a consultation.