How Tooth Whitening Works: A Bright Smile, Explained!
Have you ever looked in the mirror and wished your teeth were just a little bit whiter? You're not alone—teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments today. But how does it actually work? Let’s break it down so you know exactly what’s happening when you brighten your smile.
What Causes Tooth Discoloration?
Why do teeth become discolored in the first place? Some of the most common causes include:
Food and Drink: Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored berries can stain your teeth over time.
Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can lead to yellow or brown stains.
Aging: As we age, the enamel on our teeth gets thinner, revealing more of the yellow dentin beneath.
Medications: Certain antibiotics or medical treatments can affect tooth color.
Hygiene: Infrequent brushing or flossing allows plaque and stains to build up.
How Whitening Treatments Work
Teeth whitening treatments use bleaching agents—usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide—to break apart stain molecules on the surface and inside the tooth enamel. The active ingredients in whitening gels release oxygen molecules. These molecules penetrate the enamel and react with the discolored molecules in your teeth, breaking them apart and making them less visible.
Surface vs. Deep Stains
Whitening is most effective on extrinsic stains (those on the surface of the teeth) and some intrinsic stains (those inside the tooth). Deep, long-standing stains might require more than one session—or in some cases, alternative treatments like veneers.
Whitening Options
In-Office Whitening: We do not currently offer in-office whitening, our recommendation is to fabricate custom whitening trays for at home use with Opalescence whitening gel.
At-Home Whitening: Custom trays and gels provided by your dentist offer a safe and gradual way to whiten over a few weeks.
Over-the-Counter Products: Whitening strips and toothpastes can help with mild stains but aren’t as effective for deeper discoloration.
Is Whitening Safe?
When supervised by a dental professional, tooth whitening is a very safe procedure. Some people may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation, but these side effects typically fade quickly. If you do experience sensitivity, you can whiten less frequently for the same results over a longer period of time.
How Long Do Results Last?
Whitening isn’t permanent, but with good oral hygiene and mindful habits (like reducing coffee or soda), results can last from several months up to a couple of years. Touch-up treatments can help maintain your bright smile.
