Teeth whitening is a dental procedure performed to whiten teeth using whitening gels, lasers, and other equipment available only in the clinic. The procedure involves smothering a whitening gel over the surface of teeth. This whitening solution contains active bleaching agents like peroxide that can effectively remove stains from teeth. The whitening solution is often activated with the help of laser light. Also, the concentration of peroxide in the whitening solution depends on the severity of the staining and discoloration of teeth. While the laser is applied to the teeth, they are closely observed. The light is removed when the desired shade of teeth is achieved. It is possible that the teeth become too bright and may not match the patient’s complexion, so it becomes necessary to remove them at the right time.

Teeth discoloration can be caused due to many reasons like consuming alcohol, tobacco, or consuming products that are damaging to teeth in general. Lack of oral hygiene is also a major cause of teeth discoloration. When the patient cannot regularly brush and floss the teeth, food particles and germs accumulate over the teeth and make them appear yellowish and dirty.

After completing the procedure, the patient will be advised on how to properly take care of teeth. They will also be recommended products to maintain the results. Let us understand more about taking care of teeth after a whitening procedure.

Maintain general hygiene

Just like before receiving teeth whitening treatment, the patient should maintain a regular cleaning routine. It should involve brushing teeth twice a day, flossing once, and using antibacterial mouthwashes. Practicing such oral hygiene steps helps keep the teeth strong and germ-free. It also protects the teeth from catching any infection as the teeth are quite sensitive for a few hours post-procedure.

Use the right teeth whitening products

Patients often fall into the trap of using cheap dental products that claim to maintain their oral health. Such products can potentially damage the teeth and can affect the longevity of the results. Patients are typically given recommendations about certain products that contain mild bleaching agents which can help keep the teeth shining and the smile bright. Such products also have antibacterial properties that protect the teeth from decay. If the patient wants to try some other products, fluoridated toothpastes that are dentist-approved, mild antibacterial mouthwashes, whitening strips, etc. are recommended. However, the patients are advised to check these products with the dentist once before using them.

Foods to avoid

After any dental procedure, the patient is advised to avoid eating foods that could damage the sore teeth and gums or could affect the treatment results. In case of a teeth whitening treatment, foods that are highly pigmented and foods or drinks that contain a high amount of sugar should be avoided. Drinks like tea, coffee, cola, fruit juice, etc. have an instant effect on teeth and can reverse or worsen the results of the teeth whitening treatment. Also, foods that are too hard to chew should be avoided, as teeth are quite sensitive just after going through any dental procedure. Foods with extreme temperatures should also be avoided. Even ice-creams or cold drinks should be avoided as they could affect sore gums. The best choice is to consume porridge or other home-cooked soft foods for at least 24 hours after the treatment.

Follow-ups

Many patients believe that the results of the teeth whitening procedure are permanent and don’t need any touch-ups or dental assistance. As for the results, they can last from 7 to 8 months to a few years. It all depends on the amount of care and effort the patient makes to maintain results. However, brushing regularly, and keeping teeth clean are not enough steps to maintain a bright smile. The patient must attend follow-up appointments. Such appointments at the dentist’s involve inspection of teeth, deep cleaning, and treatment of any underlying dental conditions. Such appointments help maintain the results of the teeth whitening procedure and help them last longer.

Teeth Whitening side-effects

Teeth whitening procedures, however convenient, have a few side effects the patient may have to deal with. The most common side effects observed after receiving teeth whitening treatment are heightened teeth sensitivity, irritation of the gums, and inconsistent results. Teeth sensitivity is seen in many patients and can be treated by taking care of teeth properly. These issues are commonly observed after a few days after the treatment, but if you observe these side effects in heightened intensity or become intolerable, you should let your dentist know. Also, if these signs do not away after a few days of the treatment on their own, the patient should reach out to the dentist.

Use at-home trays

At-home trays are a type of teeth whitening treatment and can be performed by the patient at home. It helps maintain the results of the teeth whitening procedure. It consists of a flexible tray that can also be customized according to the shape of the teeth.

Before beginning the procedure, the teeth are brushed and mouthwash is used to get rid of stuck food particles. Then, the tray is injected with the provided whitening solution. The tray is compartmentalized for different teeth. The solution is supposed to be injected into these compartments neatly so it does not spill over the gums. Then, the tray is gently placed over the teeth like a cap. While applying this tray, it is possible that some bleaching solution spills out of the tray and seeps into the mouth. It is essential to avoid swallowing this whitening solution as it contains a bleaching agent and can harm the internal organs. The patient can spit out the excess whitening solution or can wipe it away. The patient can ask the pharmacist or dentist for the duration of wearing these trays. Typically, such trays need to be worn once every few weeks for 20 to 30 minutes. Solutions containing peroxide as the bleaching agent work their way up the teeth within a few minutes so such trays can be removed much earlier.