There are so many possibilities to improve the minor, aesthetic problems that we can find in our mouth. One of the most famous is definitely tooth whitening, which allows you to get a dazzling smile quickly and easily. Do you know how it works? Here you can find answers to the most frequently asked questions our dentists see. About the fluoride varnish process, also the questions remain.
Can tooth enamel be damaged by bleaching?
One often wonders if these bleaching processes make enamel suffer. The answer is no: by performing professional bleaching, it is guaranteed that the enamel remains intact and that the teeth are not damaged. Different discourse should be done for the kits and do-it-yourself whitening techniques, not always respectful of tooth enamel.
How is it done?
The whitening product based on hydrogen peroxide is activated by an LED lamp that allows the opening of the pores of the enamel and activates the whitening process. The treatment is carried out in two or three sessions of about 20 minutes and must continue at home wearing masks for two or three nights. The masks have the same whitening principle as the product used in the studio, but with a lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide. Thanks to their use, with each passing day the tooth takes on a different color. Don’t forget that it is mandatory to use a gingival protector and one for the eyes.
Is it a painful treatment?
Bleaching is not painful, but it makes the tooth more sensitive. Nothing to worry about: this feeling disappears within 72 hours after the treatment. These 72 hours are very important because wrong behaviors during this time can make bleaching vain. First of all, it is necessary to pay particular attention to hygiene and, secondly, it is advisable to follow a white diet, i.e., to avoid food with dyes. It is also important to avoid smoking, as nicotine leaves a series of deposits on the teeth that make them much darker. Not surprisingly, many smokers require whitening treatment.
Does it work on all types of stains?
The best results are obtained on teeth that have yellowed over the years. Only in the most serious cases can satisfactory results be obtained. For example, the treatment loses its effectiveness against tetracycline drug stains, which cannot be bleached. In these situations, veneers or crowns must be used. The effect of the treatment lasts at least one year but may vary based on two factors: the techniques and products used by the dentist and the habits of each person.
Which foods affect the color of our teeth?
To preserve the brightness of your smile, the first step is to avoid (or minimize) the consumption of dark foods, which can leave color on the teeth. Here are some examples:
- Red wine
- Coffee
- Carbonated drinks
- Tomato
- Curry
- Strawberry
- Raspberry
Can teeth whitening replace dental cleaning?
Bleaching is an aesthetic treatment that cannot possibly replace a professional dental cleaning. This, in fact, has the purpose of eliminating the tartar and therefore of cleaning the teeth, rather than bleaching them. Proper professional oral hygiene should always precede bleaching.
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