Teeth whitening – find the most suitable whitening method for you

Why do teeth get discolored?

Tooth discoloration and yellowing are common. In addition to external factors, the individual structure of the teeth can also predispose to discoloration.

The most common causes are:

• Coffee, tea, and red wine: These beverages contain abundant colorants that easily adhere to the tooth surface.
• Tobacco and nicotine products: Nicotine and tobacco tar cause strong and stubborn stains.
• Aging: Tooth enamel thins with age, making the darker dentine visible underneath, which makes the teeth appear yellower.
• Certain medications: For example, tetracycline antibiotics can cause internal stains that are more difficult to remove.
• Food items: Certain strongly coloring food items, such as blueberries, beetroot, and curry, can contribute to tooth discoloration.
• Poor oral hygiene: Insufficient brushing and cleaning between teeth leave plaque and tartar, which collect colorants.
• Enamel developmental disorders: Structural abnormalities in the enamel that occurred during tooth development can predispose teeth to discoloration or cause a naturally abnormal shade.
• Fluorosis: Excessive fluoride intake in childhood can cause fluorosis, which appears as white or brownish spots on the enamel.

Surface stains can often be effectively removed with professional cleaning or whitening. Deeper color changes, in turn, may require a more effective whitening method or other aesthetic dental care.

Dental hygienist's tip for preparing for whitening

Before any whitening, tartar removal is recommended, as a clean tooth surface whitens more evenly and effectively. Any potential oral health problems, such as gingivitis or cavities, should also be treated before starting whitening. If necessary, the dental hygienist will refer you to a dentist for an examination before whitening.

Teeth whitening before and after – what results can be expected?

Teeth whitening can lighten teeth by several shades depending on the initial condition. The final result is influenced by, among other things, the natural color of the teeth, the depth of discoloration, and the chosen whitening method.

Before whitening, the dental hygienist will assess the condition and color of your teeth. This helps set realistic expectations and choose the most effective whitening method. After whitening, teeth are usually lighter, and the smile looks brighter and fresher. It is good to remember that whitening does not work on dentures, crowns, or filling materials.

How long does the whitening result last?

The duration of teeth whitening results varies individually and depends on several factors, such as the chosen whitening method, lifestyle, and oral care habits. Generally, professionally performed whitening lasts from six months to two years.

How to maintain the whitening result

Good oral hygiene and oral self-care according to the dental hygienist's advice are the cornerstone of the whitening result. Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day, clean between teeth daily, and, if necessary, use enzymatically whitening toothpastes recommended by the dental hygienist.

Reducing the use of coloring foods, tobacco, and nicotine products helps maintain a lighter tooth shade longer. The result of teeth whitening is not permanent, and the whitening result gradually fades over time. If necessary, the result can be maintained with a new whitening treatment.

Who is teeth whitening not suitable for?

Teeth whitening is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Whitening treatments are also not performed on individuals under 18 years of age, as tooth development is still ongoing. In addition, whitening is only performed on a healthy mouth, so any potential cavities, gum diseases, or other oral health problems should be treated before starting whitening.