Tooth Whitening

Teeth Whitening-Bleaching is the procedure performed to remove teeth that are darker than normal due to enamel and dentin structure and discolorations that occur on them for various reasons.

Teeth whitening can be achieved harmlessly up to 9-10 tones (3m scale) with the tooth whitening process. The materials used during teeth whitening are for professional use and are made with medicines prepared individually after a dentist examination. The agents sold in cosmetics that are not made under the control of a dentist are very ineffective and can damage tooth structures.

Food residues accumulated on the teeth, stains caused by tea - coffee - cigarette use and brushing habits are cleaned with tartar and plaque cleaning in the dental office and polishing afterwards. After these procedures, the teeth are ready for teeth whitening.

Bleaching is applied in 2 ways:

Home Bleaching: It is the method that you can apply yourself at home with the guidance and instructions of your dentist. A personalized bleaching tray is prepared with an impression taken from the patient's mouth. When going to bed at night, a water-based whitening drug is placed in this plaque and teeth whitening is achieved with the plaque and the drug remaining in the mouth throughout the night. This process is applied for 7 - 10 days depending on the amount of whitening of the teeth and achieving the desired result.

Office Bleaching (Applied in Clinic): It is the whitening process applied by the Dentist in cases where whitening is desired to be fast. The gums are isolated and the medication is applied on the teeth and blue light used in irradiated fillings is applied on them to increase the effectiveness of the medication. The procedure is terminated when the desired whiteness is achieved after repeated sessions. However, recent research suggests that home teeth whitening should be continued as a support after office teeth whitening.

What should be considered in Bleaching Treatment?

• Bleaching is a procedure that must be performed under the control of a dentist and in strict accordance with his/her instructions.
• Caries, cracks, broken areas on the teeth may cause the chemical substance used to act on these areas and cause damage. Such dental problems must be eliminated before the whitening process.
• During the whitening process, coloring foods such as tea - coffee - cigarettes should be avoided, regular brushing and maintenance procedures should be applied carefully.

What is the Professional Teeth Cleaning Process?

A professional dental cleaning is a procedure performed by dentists or dental specialists. This cleaning helps to remove plaque, tartar and stains from the mouth and is also aimed at preventing tooth decay, gum disease and other oral problems. Here is a general overview of the professional teeth cleaning process:

1. Preliminary Examination: The dentist or dental hygienist will check the general condition of your mouth. This is done to detect any abnormalities or problems.
2. Dental X-ray: If necessary, the dentist may take X-rays of your teeth and jawbone. This is done to check for any problems between them or under the gums.
3. Plaque and Tartar Removal: The dental hygienist uses special tools to remove plaque and tartar (calculus) from the surface of your teeth and below the gum line.
4. Polishing: The tooth surfaces are smoothed using a rotating brush with a special paste. This makes it harder for new plaque and tartar to adhere to the teeth.
5. Gum Check: The dentist or dental hygienist will check your gums for signs of gum disease.
6. Fluoride Treatment: In some cases, the dentist recommends fluoride treatment to prevent tooth decay. This treatment is done by applying a fluoride gel or solution to the tooth surface.
7. Oral Hygiene Recommendations: After the cleaning, the dentist or dental hygienist may make recommendations regarding oral care. This may include proper brushing and flossing techniques.
8. Final Checkup: After the cleaning, the dentist will check your mouth one last time and assess whether there are any problems or concerns.

Professional teeth cleaning is usually recommended at least twice a year. However, this may vary depending on your personal oral health and the recommendations of your dentist.

Why should you have your teeth cleaned regularly?

There are many important reasons why you should have your teeth professionally cleaned regularly. Here are some of these reasons:

1. Removing Plaque and Tartar: Despite home oral care routines such as brushing and flossing, it is difficult to completely prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Professional dental cleaning removes these build-ups thoroughly.
2. Preventing Tooth Decay: Plaque buildup causes bacterial activity, which increases acid production. Acids damage tooth enamel, which leads to tooth decay. Regular cleaning reduces this risk.
3. Gum Disease Prevention: Tartar buildup can cause inflammation of the gums, which can lead to gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Regular professional cleanings help prevent gum disease.
4. Preventing Bad Breath: Accumulated food debris and bacteria can cause bad breath. Regular cleaning is the key to fresh breath.
5. Whiter Teeth: Teeth cleaning removes substances that stain teeth (coffee, wine, tobacco, etc.), making them whiter and brighter.
6. Early Detection: Regular dental check-ups can detect early signs of potentially serious health problems, such as oral cancer.
7. Cost Savings: Preventive care prevents bigger and more costly problems down the road.
8. Protecting Overall Health: There is a direct link between oral health and general health. Problems with oral health can lead to other health issues such as heart disease and diabetes.

As a result, regular dental cleanings are a critical step in protecting both your mouth and your overall health.