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Teeth whitening

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What causes tooth discoloration?

The outer layer of teeth can become discolored when:

  • you drink tea, coffee or red wine

  • eat foods such as spices, berries, or beets

  • you smoke cigarettes

As we age, the white layer of enamel on the outside of our teeth wears away. This exposes the inner, yellowish dentin structure, causing our teeth to appear yellow.

Teeth can also change color from the inside if:

  • are damaged or injured

  • you took certain medications as a child – such as the antibiotics tetracycline or doxycycline

  • the tooth was treated with a root canal, which can also lead to internal discoloration.

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What does teeth whitening involve?

There are two main types of whitening: professional in-office whitening and at-home whitening with an individually tailored treatment.

 

Teeth whitening in the office
First, the teeth are properly prepared and the gums are protected. The dentist applies a strong hydrogen peroxide gel, which is left to act for 30 to 40 minutes. A whitening lamp is often used. After the treatment is complete, the teeth should be whiter.
If the yellowing is caused by deep discoloration in the dentin, then the gel applied externally will not significantly whiten the teeth.

 

Sometimes, a dentist may perform internal bleaching – when teeth are discolored from the inside, most often after a root canal treatment. Bleaching is performed by placing a bleaching agent inside the tooth, where the tooth nerve used to be. The agent is left in place for a few days, then removed and the tooth is sealed with a filling.

 

Teeth whitening at home

For at-home whitening, your dentist will custom-make thin, plastic trays that fit your teeth perfectly. You will also receive a whitening gel of the appropriate strength, tailored to your needs.
The gel is applied to the foils and they are worn according to the dentist's instructions - how much gel to use and how long to wear the pads each time.
This method is slower than in-office teeth whitening.

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Foods and habits to avoid after whitening treatment

Especially in the first 48 hours after treatment, avoid acidic products (such as soda, pickles, citrus fruits - orange, lemon), as well as foods that easily cause stains:

 

  • Coffee

  • Red fruit

  • Fruit juices

  • Beer

  • Tea

  • Soy sauce

  • Chocolate

  • Curry powder

  • Ketchup and tomato paste

  • Red wine

 

During this period, teeth are more sensitive to stains and damage. Consuming these products not only reduces the whitening effect, but can also further worsen the condition.

Also, be careful about other products you put in your mouth, such as colored toothpaste, tobacco products, or electronic cigarettes.

 

What can you eat for the first 48 hours?


It is ideal to eat foods that are white or light in color and do not contain acids. The following are recommended:

  • Milk

  • Pasta

  • Rice

  • Cauliflower

  • Eggs

  • Fish

  • Skinless chicken breast

  • Potatoes

  • Tofu

  • Yogurt

  • Bread

  • Oatmeal

  • Cottage cheese

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