Teeth whitening in a clinic is usually carried out through a single visit at the dentist, which usually takes less than an hour. Bleeching at a clinic is safe, fast, and efficient, but more expensive than using home whitening kit.
Generally about the treatment
Teeth whitening at a clinic is the safest and most effective form of teeth whitening.
When addressing a dentist with the wish to have whiter teeth, the dentist will be able to provide guidance on, what result will be realistic in the individual case.
Teeth whitening at the dentist is quicker than home bleaching, because the dentist can use larger amounts of the active solution hydrogen peroxide, than what is allowed for home bleaching kits. Additionally, the dentist uses a special lamp, which enables the bleaching material to work faster.
The teeth are applied a substance containing hydrogen peroxide. Some dentists then expose the teeth to a special light to make the solution work much quicker. After less than 1 hour, the result is significantly whiter teeth.
Teeth whitening at the dentist is often supplemented with a home whitening kit, which can add to the effect of the treatment.
Suitability
Persons over the age of 18, with normal teeth hygiene, are suited for teeth whitening.
If the bleacing is performed in an area with any visible plastic fillings, these will need to be replaced, or they will appear darker than the whitened teeth.
People with gum diseases, a worn enamel, untreated cavities, or exposed tooth necks are not suited for this treatment.
The procedure
Prior to the treatment, the dentist applies a gel or rubber barrier, which is meant to protect the gums and lips from the bleaching solution. This protection is not provided when using a home bleaching kit, and if the bleach does spill onto the lips or gums, it can cause irritation.
The active substance, which contains hydrogen peroxide, is then applied to the teeth. The teeth sometimes then exposed to a special light for approximately 15 minutes. The process is repeated a few times - each time with a new layer of bleaching solution.
Anaesthesia
A teeth whitening does not hurt and no anaesthetic is used for this treatment.
Side-effects
During the first few days after a teeth whitening, some patients will experience an increased sensitivity in their teeth.
Risk of complications
There is no current documentation for long-term complications due to having had a teeth whitening treatment.
Healing and recovery
The patient can resume their normal activities immediately after the treatment.
It is, however, recommended to avoid food and beverages, that may discolour the teeth, for at least 1 week after having a teeth whitening. Smoking should also be avoided.
Duration of the result
Dental whitening does not result in permanently whiter teeth, as the teeth will continue to become discoloured over time. The result can, however be maintained with a new teeth whitening treatment (at the dentist or with a home bleaching kit), whenever the patient finds it necessary.
The appropriate time for another teeth whitening treatment depends on the intake of discolouring foods and beverages, as well as the patient's own requirements for their appearance.
The results should last for approximately ½ - 1½ years.
The duration of the result after a teeth whitening is difficult to determine, seeing as the result will fade slowly over time.
A general estimate would be 1-2 years, depending on the use of tea, coffee, cigarettes, red wine, etc.