Why do teeth discolour?
The natural colour of a tooth is mainly determined by the dentine. Its colour is genetic and often not white but somewhat darker. The enamel, the hard protective layer around the inside of the tooth, is rather translucent, so the colour of the dentine shows through.
On top of this come external and internal discolourations. Surface stains are often caused by tea, coffee, red wine or tobacco smoke and can be influenced by your own habits. Accidents, root canal treatments or medication can also cause discolouration from inside the tooth. When normal oral hygiene and professional cleaning are not enough, whitening can help.
How whitening works
During whitening, the bleaching agent penetrates the outer layer of the tooth and breaks down the colour pigments, so the tooth appears lighter. The effect depends on the application time and the concentration of the agent; depending on the method, several treatments may be needed to reach the desired shade.
At the practice the concentration is considerably higher than with home whitening. In-office whitening therefore achieves long-lasting results in less time; the blue light of the Philips Zoom system further intensifies the process.
Power whitening and home whitening
For power whitening at our practice in Baar, we apply professional bleaching gels and solutions to the teeth and combine them with a special LED lamp. Treatment is possible in a single session and the results are quickly visible. For most patients, the teeth become around two to three shades lighter.
For medical home whitening, Dr. Nina van Sprundel prepares a custom-made whitening tray that you use comfortably at home. With an application time of only 2–3 weeks, it is a safe, straightforward and cost-effective method.
Both treatments are suitable for healthy teeth and require a professional cleaning beforehand. We inform you about possible risks and side effects in advance.
Requirements
We recommend whitening – at the practice or at home – for healthy adults only. Children, pregnant and breastfeeding women and people with serious illnesses should not whiten their teeth. Caries, exposed tooth necks, cracks in the enamel or gum inflammation rule out treatment, as the bleaching agent could damage teeth and gums further. What we check at the preliminary examination:
- Professional cleaning no more than 4 weeks ago
- No active gum inflammation
- Healthy oral mucosa and healthy teeth
- Good oral hygiene
- No acute caries
- No leaking fillings
Safety and how long it lasts
Professional whitening does not damage the teeth: the agent attacks neither enamel nor dentine nor pulp. Plaque even forms less easily on freshly whitened teeth. How long the result lasts depends on your lifestyle; regular professional cleaning and good care at home help.
If we advise against whitening or one of the points above applies to you, you should not attempt it on your own at home either – your teeth and gums could be harmed.
Beware of whitening toothpastes and home remedies
Many whitening toothpastes contain abrasive particles that act like sandpaper. Used over a longer period, they can damage enamel and gums. We recommend fluoride toothpaste. Professional whitening is much gentler than using a whitening toothpaste permanently.
Never use home remedies that attack the enamel, such as baking powder, bicarbonate of soda or acids like citric acid.
Alternatives to whitening
- Thorough oral care with toothbrush and floss – the best basis for healthy, attractive teeth
- Professional dental hygiene at our practice
- Veneers to correct discoloured teeth – also possible during pregnancy and for people with an illness