How Does Professional Teeth Whitening Work?

Introduction

A radiant smile is often associated with beauty, confidence, and good oral hygiene. However, with time, our teeth can become stained or discoloured due to factors such as ageing, consumption of certain foods and drinks, smoking, or poor dental hygiene. Thankfully, professional teeth whitening procedures have emerged as a popular solution to restore the natural whiteness of teeth. 

However, many people looking for professional teeth whitening in Dublin treatment often need clarification on how it works. 

Here, we will explore how teeth whitening works to brighten your smile.

Understanding Teeth Stains

Before diving into the details of professional teeth whitening, one must understand the two primary types of teeth stains: extrinsic and intrinsic.

Extrinsic Stains

Extrinsic stains occur on the outer layer of the teeth, the enamel. External factors like tobacco use, coffee, tea, red wine, or certain foods usually cause them. Extrinsic stains tend to respond well to teeth whitening treatments.

Intrinsic Stains

Intrinsic stains occur within the inner structure of the tooth, known as the dentin. Trauma, excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development, certain medications, or ageing may cause them. Intrinsic stains are typically more challenging to remove and may require alternative dental procedures.

The Professional Teeth Whitening Process

Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure performed by a qualified dentist or dental hygienist. It involves using specialized whitening agents and techniques to remove stains and restore the natural whiteness of teeth. Here's how the process works. 

Dental Examination

Before teeth whitening, a dental professional will examine your teeth to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. They check for underlying dental issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, or enamel erosion that may affect the whitening process.

Cleaning

The dentist then thoroughly cleans your teeth to remove plaque, tartar, or surface stains. The step ensures that the whitening agents can effectively penetrate the teeth for optimal results.

Protection for Gums and Lips

Next, the professional protects your gums and lips by applying a barrier or dental dam, as it prevents the whitening gel from coming into contact with sensitive oral tissues.

Application of Whitening Agent

The dentist applies professional-grade whitening gel containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to your teeth. The active ingredient breaks down the stains, bleaching the tooth enamel and revealing a brighter smile.

Activation of Whitening Agent

Some dental practices may use a special light, laser, or heat source to activate the whitening gel as it enhances the whitening process. It helps accelerate the chemical reaction, allowing quicker and more noticeable results.

Multiple Sessions 

Depending on the severity of the stains and your desired level of whitening, the dentist may recommend multiple teeth whitening sessions. It allows for gradual improvement and personalized treatment.

Follow-up Care and Maintenance

After the whitening procedure, the dental professional will provide post-treatment care and maintenance instructions. It may include avoiding certain foods and beverages that can stain the teeth, practising good oral hygiene, and scheduling regular dental check-ups.

Conclusion

Professional teeth whitening in Dublin is a safe and effective way to restore a bright white smile. Through specialized whitening agents and techniques, dental professionals can effectively remove extrinsic stains and improve the appearance of your teeth. However, it's important to note that professional teeth whitening may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with intrinsic stains or underlying dental conditions. 

If you're considering teeth whitening, consult an expert at Teeth Whitening Fairies to determine the best action for achieving a whiter, brighter smile. They also provide an at-home teeth sparkling kit offering a bright smile in 14 days.