Teeth whitening

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is a method where whitening gel is used to lighten the color of the teeth. The gel penetrates into the tooth and, through a chemical process, dissolves the color pigments that are present there.

Why teeth whitening?

Many people feel their teeth are too dark or yellow, and teeth also darken with age. Tooth color can also be influenced by natural pigmentation, meaning some people naturally have darker or more yellow teeth. Over time, color builds up inside the teeth, and they darken, while our lifestyle can add external staining to the surface.

Teeth whitening is an effective treatment to improve the appearance of teeth. The procedure is relatively simple and low-risk when carried out by professionals.

Surface stains

Surface stains can result from smoking, drinks such as coffee, tea, and red wine, poor oral hygiene, and tartar build-up. Stains can also occur on old fillings. Surface stains can be removed by professional cleaning and sometimes by polishing or replacing old fillings.

Dentin

The color of the dentin beneath the enamel shows through the enamel. Dark dentin gives teeth a darker appearance. Yellowish dentin is easier to lighten than gray dentin. Sometimes enamel wears away so that dark and discolored dentin shows through—an example being the biting edges of lower front teeth. Sometimes it is necessary to cover exposed dentin with filling material before whitening. This increases the treatment’s effectiveness and reduces the likelihood of sensitivity after treatment.

Who can have teeth whitening?

It is necessary to have a dental check-up before deciding on treatment. Sometimes teeth must be cleaned first, and open cavities or sensitive areas need to be filled.

Anyone aged 18 or over with healthy and clean teeth can undergo teeth whitening if there is a reason to do so. Caution should be taken for people with very sensitive teeth, significant enamel erosion, or gum disease. In many cases, some dental treatment is needed before whitening can begin.

Teeth whitening is not recommended for pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers.

Are there any side effects to teeth whitening treatment?

The most common side effect is temporary sensitivity or discomfort in the teeth or irritation of the gums. If this occurs, it is best to pause the treatment and resume once the sensitivity has decreased. It can also help to restart gradually, for example using the treatment every other day and for shorter periods.

How is teeth whitening done?

The whitening agents we use are usually carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. The formula also contains ingredients that reduce the risk of sensitivity and make treatment more comfortable. The whitening agent penetrates the teeth and releases oxygen, which breaks down pigments and lightens the teeth.

At our clinic, we offer two types of whitening:

• In-chair whitening, also called rapid whitening
• Whitening with trays, also called home whitening

In-chair whitening

The whitening is done at the clinic by trained dental staff after the dentist has recommended the treatment. A protective rubber material is applied to the gums, and then a strong whitening gel is applied to the teeth in several applications. The procedure takes about 2 hours.

Whitening with trays

The teeth are scanned digitally, and 3D models are printed. Clear trays, called whitening trays, are custom-made to fit snugly over the teeth. The whitening gel is placed inside the trays, which are then worn over the teeth. The treatment usually takes 1–2 hours per day for 7–14 days. In more difficult cases, the treatment period may need to be extended.

If in-chair whitening is chosen, we often recommend that the patient also have home trays to maintain results. This is because top-up treatments are often needed.

Can everyone expect good results?

Studies show that most people who have whitening treatment are satisfied with the results. The best results are seen when teeth have darkened with age and in individuals with yellowish teeth. Grayish teeth can be more challenging to treat, but some improvement is always possible.

Whitening does not work on fillings, porcelain, silver-stained teeth that have been discolored by amalgam fillings, or permanent stains in cracks. Root-filled teeth cannot be whitened from the outside; the whitening agent must be applied inside the tooth in a different type of treatment. Ask your dentist whether whitening is suitable for you.

We strongly advise against seeking whitening anywhere other than in a dental clinic. Professional knowledge of the materials and their strengths is essential for the best results. Teeth and gums must also be examined thoroughly before starting treatment.

Is teeth whitening a permanent treatment?

In some ways, whitening can be considered permanent, as teeth rarely become as dark as before if the treatment was successful. However, some relapse is normal. Many people repeat the treatment for a few days once a year or every few years. Whitening trays are very durable, and whitening gel can be purchased from the clinic. Shorter in-chair whitening sessions are also available to refresh results.

Which is better: in-chair whitening or home whitening?

For most people, home whitening alone is sufficient and carries minimal risk. In-chair whitening can be very effective, but the risk of sensitivity is higher. Therefore, we do not recommend it for young people.

We also offer a combination package of in-chair and home whitening for fast and long-lasting results.

Teeth whitening with lights has sometimes been promoted, and you may have seen ads for so-called “laser whitening.” This actually involves blue light (not laser) which may at best speed up the process. Whitening gel must still be applied to the teeth. All whitening products we use at our clinic are from approved manufacturers and do not require the use of such lights.

Would you like to know if teeth whitening is right for you?

We at our clinic welcome you for a dental check-up to assess whether whitening is suitable for your teeth. We only use whitening products from approved manufacturers and follow precise treatment procedures. You are in safe hands with us.