Getting a radiant and healthy smile is possible thanks to teeth whitening. This treatment allows you to recover the natural beauty of your teeth and keep them rejuvenated. It is important to keep in mind that there are different types of whitening treatments, which are adapted to the needs of each individual patient. Therefore, it is essential to know the different options available to determine which is the most appropriate to achieve a beautiful smile.
Índice
What is teeth whitening?
Tooth whitening is a dental procedure used to lighten the shade of teeth and improve their esthetic appearance. The treatment consists of applying a whitening solution to the surface of the tooth enamel, which may be a concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide, and activating it with a special light or heat to accelerate the whitening process. This allows the removal of stains and discolorations on the teeth, returning them to a whiter and brighter shade. There are different types of teeth whitening, which can be performed at the dentist’s office or at home, depending on the patient’s needs and preferences.
Why do teeth become stained or look yellower/darker?
Teeth can become stained and turn yellowish or dark for a variety of reasons, including:
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Consumption of pigmented foods and beverages: Frequent consumption of foods and beverages with high pigment content, such as coffee, tea, red wine, carbonated beverages, red fruits and dark sauces, can stain teeth over time.
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Tobacco: Tobacco is one of the main causes of tooth stains, as it contains substances that adhere to the tooth surface and penetrate the enamel.
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Aging: Over time, tooth enamel wears away and becomes thinner, allowing the underlying dentin layer, which is yellow in color, to become more visible.
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Dental trauma: Teeth may darken after dental injury or trauma, as the internal tissue of the tooth may be damaged and cause discoloration.
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Use of certain medications: Some medications, such as the antibiotics tetracyclines, can cause staining and discoloration of the teeth if taken during childhood or pregnancy.
It is important to note that poor oral hygiene and lack of regular dental visits can also contribute to the appearance of stains and discolorations on the teeth. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a good oral hygiene routine and visit the dentist regularly to maintain a healthy, radiant smile.
For which patients is teeth whitening recommended?
Teeth whitening is recommended for people who wish to improve the aesthetic appearance of their teeth and increase their confidence in their smile. Some of the most common reasons people choose to undergo teeth whitening are:
- Stained or yellowed teeth due to aging, tobacco, coffee, tea or other substances that can stain teeth.
- Stained teeth due to the ingestion of certain medications.
- Stained teeth due to dental fluorosis (excessive exposure to fluoride during tooth development).
- People who want to improve their smile in general, for special events such as weddings, graduations, job interviews, etc.
However, not everyone is a candidate for teeth whitening. It is important to have a prior evaluation with a dentist to determine if the patient has good oral health and is a good candidate for whitening.
What types of teeth whitening are there?
There are several types of professional teeth whitening that a dentist can offer patients, including:
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In-office teeth whitening: This type of whitening is performed in the dental clinic, where a whitening gel is applied to the teeth and activated with a special light. The results are visible immediately, and up to 8 shades lighter can be achieved in a single session.
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Custom splinted teeth whitening: This type of whitening is performed at home, but under the supervision of the dentist. The patient receives customized splints that are filled with a whitening gel and placed on the teeth for several hours a day or overnight. The results may take several weeks to be visible, but are usually longer lasting than those obtained with in-office whitening.
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Blended Teeth Whitening: This type of whitening combines in-office whitening with custom splint whitening. An in-office whitening session is performed first, and then the patient is provided with customized splints to continue the treatment at home.
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Internal whitening: refers to the process of whitening teeth that have undergone a root canal (root canal treatment). After a root canal, it is common for teeth to acquire a dark or stained appearance due to the devitalization process and lack of blood supply.
To perform internal whitening, the dentist will make a previous evaluation with a periapical x-ray to know the conditions of the tooth. Then, an opening is made in the upper part of the tooth and a whitening paste with hydrogen peroxide is placed in the pulp chamber.
Hydrogen peroxide acts on stains and discolorations inside the tooth structure. The entrance is sealed and the whitening material is left to act for a few days, usually about 72 hours. The material is then removed and the result is evaluated.
It is important that internal bleaching be performed by a trained and experienced dental professional, as the procedure involves manipulating the internal structure of the tooth. If you are considering internal bleaching, consult with your dentist to evaluate whether you are a good candidate and to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.
It is important that the dentist performs a preliminary evaluation before deciding which type of whitening is the most appropriate for each patient, since some cases may require special techniques.
For which patients is teeth whitening recommended?
Dental aesthetics are becoming increasingly important to people, and teeth whitening has become a popular option for improving the appearance of teeth. However, it is important to note that the price of teeth whitening can vary depending on the type of procedure and the specific needs of the patient.
At Cardona Clinic, our Zaragoza dentists are committed to providing affordable, high-quality treatment options to help our patients achieve their best smile. During an initial consultation, we assess the patient’s dental needs and determine the type of teeth whitening that is most suitable for them. Based on this, we provide fair and transparent pricing.
Unlike other dental clinics that may compromise the quality of their treatments by offering lower prices, at Cardona Clinic we ensure that our patients receive safe, high quality treatment performed by highly trained and experienced professionals.
In short, at Cardona Clinic we believe that having a healthy and radiant smile should be accessible to everyone. If you are looking for a reliable dental clinic in Zaragoza to perform teeth whitening, do not hesitate to contact us and schedule your first consultation.
Tips for maintaining the whiteness of your teeth after tooth whitening
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Avoid foods and beverages that stain teeth: Some foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, among others, can stain teeth and affect teeth whitening. It is best to avoid them or consume them in moderation.
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Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a whitening toothpaste and floss to remove food debris and plaque that may accumulate between the teeth. It is also advisable to use mouthwash to keep your mouth clean and fresh.
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Visit the dentist regularly: Schedule regular visits to the dentist for maintenance and teeth cleaning. The dentist can make recommendations specific to your case and offer additional treatments to maintain your teeth whitening.
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Don’t smoke: Smoking can stain teeth and affect overall oral health. If you want to maintain long-lasting teeth whitening, it is best to avoid smoking.
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Use a straw to drink: If you consume beverages that stain teeth, use a straw to minimize contact with teeth and reduce the possibility of staining.
By following these tips and maintaining good dental care, you will be able to prolong the effects of teeth whitening and have a radiant smile for longer.
