Frequently Asked Questions
Home Teeth Whitening
If you would like to take control of your teeth whitening and don't expect to have bright white teeth in just one hour, we highly recommend this type of whitening. This procedure takes place at home using a teeth whitening tray, with medical instructions and check-ups, and it typically takes 7-14 days to achieve the desired result.
The treatment process:
Pre-teeth whitening necessary steps:
- During our first appointment, we conduct a comprehensive oral examination to check if existing fillings are adequate, and to assess for cavities or tartar.
- If there is a decayed tooth or a broken, poorly sealing filling, they must be treated.
- We perform ultrasonic cleaning of the teeth and air polishing, preparing the tooth surfaces for the whitening procedure with this preliminary treatment.
- Once we have cleared the initial "obstacles," we can proceed with the actual whitening.
The Teeth Whitening Process:
- We discuss the needs, expectations, and possibilities. We determine the initial tooth color and the approximate expected tooth color. All of this is documented.
- Afterwards, we take an impression of both the upper and lower teeth, and then have a dental technician create a thin, rubber-like tray specifically for this purpose. (This process takes only 1-2 business days.)
- The whitening gel, which contains carbamide peroxide and fluoride (the latter helps with sensitivity), should be placed thinly into the tray. The tray with the gel should then be worn on the dental arch overnight. In the morning, remove the tray, rinse both the teeth and the tray thoroughly.
- The speed and effectiveness of the process vary for each individual, largely depending on the initial condition, the cause of the discoloration, lifestyle, and dietary habits.
Characteristics:
- The whitening is done with a milder substance compared to the in-office method.
- Easy to implement
- The result is more controllable, as we can see the progress every day and decide if we want to continue the treatment.
- On average, 7-14 days are needed to achieve the desired whiteness, depending on the starting condition and the target result.
- An impression is required for the creation of the tray.
- Wearing the teeth whitening tray is easy to get used to and does not cause any discomfort.
- The tray only needs to be made once. If after a few years we want to "refresh" the whiteness, we only need to purchase the whitening gel, making the cost minimal compared to the first time.
- Economically, this is the most cost-effective solution.
Laser In-office Teeth Whitening
Laser whitening represents the highest standard worldwide. It is fast, simple, painless, effective, and long-lasting, known as a deep whitening method (since the laser works not only on the surface of the tooth but also in deeper layers). This procedure is carried out in-office with the assistance of a dental hygienist. The entire process takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, and in return, by the end of the appointment, we will transform your teeth into a dazzling white.
The treatment process:
Steps Before Teeth Whitening:
- During our first appointment, we conduct a comprehensive oral examination to check if the existing fillings are adequate, and to assess for cavities, possible cervical wear, or tartar.
- In every case, we perform ultrasonic cleaning and air polishing of the teeth to ensure that the whitening material and laser can work effectively.
- If there is a decayed tooth, a broken or poorly sealing filling, or cervical wear, they must be treated.
- Once we have cleared the initial "obstacles," we can proceed with the actual teeth whitening.
Steps of Teeth Whitening:
- We discuss the needs, expectations, and important details. We determine the initial tooth color and the approximate expected tooth color. All of this is documented.
- First, we place a lip retractor to hold the soft tissues away during the treatment, which causes no discomfort.
- We apply a special material to the gums, called a gingival protector, which prevents irritation from the whitening agent. At the end of the treatment, it can be easily removed without pain.
- We apply the whitening agent to the outer surface of the teeth, then illuminate the teeth with the laser. The duration of the laser exposure varies depending on the desired result and individual factors. If any tooth is darker than the others, it will be treated separately.
- Finally, we remove the whitening agent and the gingival protector.
- Then, we check the tooth color.
It is very important to note that the final shade of the whitened teeth will develop within a few hours or days. The final color and stabilization of the shade take about 2 weeks.
Characteristics of Laser Teeth Whitening:
- Fast
- Laser teeth whitening is currently the most modern and effective teeth whitening procedure, which is why it is available in only a few dental clinics.
- It performs deep whitening, so it does not damage the enamel.
- Post-treatment sensitivity is less common.
- It provides long-lasting results.
- It is painless.
How long does the result of laser teeth whitening last?
The durability of teeth whitening largely depends on dietary habits and lifestyle. Frequent consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking all contribute to the early loss of the achieved results. (It is recommended to avoid these during the treatment.)
On average, the whitening effect lasts for 2-3 years, but the teeth will not darken back to their original color. Of course, the procedure can be repeated if desired.
