Teeth whitening works by using a chemical process to break down the stains and discoloration on the surface of teeth, making them appear brighter and whiter.
Teeth whitening refers to a variety of processes that aim to make someone’s natural teeth appear brighter and whiter. Teeth whitening methods include sanding down stains, bleaching, ultraviolet (UV) light therapy, and more
Are you unhappy with the color of your teeth? Have you tried brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash, but the stains just won’t go away? Professional Teeth whitening may be the solution you’re looking for!
The Science Behind Teeth Whitening
To understand how teeth whitening works, it’s helpful to know a little about the anatomy of teeth. Each tooth is made up of two layers: the outer layer (enamel) and the inner layer (dentin).
The enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of the tooth, while the dentin is the softer layer underneath.
Stains from teeth can develop on teeth for a variety of reasons, including smoking, drinking coffee, tea, or red wine, and certain medications. Stains can be classified into two categories: extrinsic and intrinsic stains.
Extrinsic stains occur on the outer surface of the tooth enamel and are usually caused by smoking or consuming certain foods and drinks. Intrinsic stains, on the other hand, occur on the inside of the tooth and are caused by aging, trauma, or exposure to certain medications.
Teeth whitening agents work to remove stains and brighten teeth by breaking down the molecules that cause discoloration.
Most teeth whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which penetrate the enamel and dentin layers of the teeth to break down stains.
When the peroxide comes into contact with the stains, it creates a chemical reaction that breaks the stain into smaller, less noticeable particles.
Types of Teeth Stains
Teeth stains can be broadly categorized into three types: extrinsic stains and intrinsic stains and age related stains
Extrinsic stains are surface stains that occur on the outside of the teeth. They are caused by factors such as smoking, drinking coffee, tea, or wine, and poor dental hygiene. These stains can usually be removed by professional teeth cleaning or at-home whitening treatments.
Intrinsic stains, on the other hand, occur inside the teeth and cannot be removed by simple teeth cleaning or whitening treatments. They can be caused by factors such as aging, genetics, certain medications, or excessive fluoride exposure during childhood.
Intrinsic stains may require more advanced whitening treatments, such as professional teeth whitening, to be removed.
Age-related stains, These are stains that occur as we age, and they are a combination of extrinsic and intrinsic factors. As we age, the enamel on our teeth naturally wears down, making the teeth more susceptible to staining.
In addition, the dentin beneath the enamel naturally yellows over time, which can make teeth appear darker or yellowish.
What to Expect During a Teeth Whitening Treatment
Regardless of the type of teeth whitening treatment you choose, there are a few things you can expect during the process. First, your dental professional will evaluate your teeth and discuss your goals for whitening.
They may take impressions of your teeth to create custom-fitted trays for at-home treatments.
During the treatment, you may experience some tooth sensitivity or gum irritation, especially with in-office treatments. It’s important to follow any instructions provided by your dental professional to minimize these side effects.
To maximize the effectiveness of your teeth whitening treatment, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits and avoid staining foods and drinks. You should also continue to visit your dental professional regularly for cleanings and checkups to maintain your bright, white smile.
Take away
Teeth whitening is a popular and effective way to brighten your smile and boost your confidence. Whether you choose an in-office treatment, at-home treatment, or over-the-counter product it still works wonders.
