How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Over time your teeth become discoloured due to your diet, lifestyle, and general wear and tear. Teeth whitening is an effective and common procedure to remove stains and lighten your teeth several shades with teeth whitening at Dental Spot. If you have ever wondered: how does teeth whitening work? We have the answers to all your teeth whitening questions.

The Science Behind Teeth Whitening

There are two types of staining that occurs on your teeth. Extrinsic discolouration appears on the surface of your teeth and can be removed at regular hygiene cleanings.

Intrinsic stains penetrate the layers of enamel and dentin and require professional teeth whitening treatments. The strong outer layer of your teeth is called enamel and is composed of tiny rod-like structures giving it a mildly porous texture. When you consume pigmented food and drinks, use tobacco products, or have poor oral hygiene, these pores absorb the colours causing yellow or grey stains.

To remove these stains especially formulated bleaching gels are needed that can penetrate the enamel. The two most commonly used active ingredients for whitening treatments are hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. The compounds bind with the stain molecules to break down and disperse them through a process called oxidation.⁠ (another site)

Teeth Whitening at Dental Spot

At Dental Spot, we offer different whitening treatments from trusted brands Opalescence, Pola, and Colgate. After your initial consultation, we will make a treatment recommendation depending on the level of stain removal needed.

In-Chair Professional Teeth Whitening

For severe discolouration, we recommend our in-chair Opalescence treatment. The entire procedure takes approximately one hour and lightens your teeth several shades. In addition to bleaching agents, Opalescence teeth whitening treatments contain potassium nitrate and fluoride which helps to remineralise teeth, lower sensitivity, and reduce the risk of cavities.

Your dentist rinses and air dries your teeth before applying a protective resin dam to the gingiva to minimise soft tissue sensitivity. The concentrated bleaching gel is applied directly to the teeth, left for 15 minutes, then removed. The dentist checks the resulting shade of your teeth and may reapply the treatment if more stain removal is required.

At-Home Teeth Whitening Systems

If you have mild staining or want a touch up between dental visits, you may benefit from one of our at-home teeth whitening kits. We offer the Pola brand at-home whitening system which uses customised trays and precise doses of bleaching gel to gradually whiten your teeth from the comfort and convenience of your own home.

The Pola Day formula has a high water content that ensures a neutral pH, while the highly viscous gel stays on teeth and minimises gum exposure. It also contains fluoride to protect tooth enamel.

To use Pola Day, place a small drop of gel in each compartment of the tray, seat the tray and wipe away any gel that spills over. Wear it for the time your dentist sets: SDI, the maker, gives 15 to 45 minutes at a time, once or twice a day, depending on the gel’s strength. Then remove the tray, rinse the tray and your mouth, and brush your teeth as usual.

Patients typically see results between 5 and 14 days. Pola Day CP, SDI’s faster gel, is 35% carbamide peroxide and is worn for 15 minutes a day, or up to 30 if your dentist advises.

The Risks of Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Products

Professional teeth whitening⁠ (another site) is preferable to over-the-counter products as it is more effective and your dentist supervises it. While store-bought teeth whitening kits may offer a more affordable way to achieve a whiter smile, there are some risks involved which can seriously affect your oral health.

As OTC products are not prescribed and monitored by a dentist, they typically contain a lower concentration of bleaching agent.

Other tooth whitening kits contain abrasive particles which can irritate gum tissue and cause inflammation potentially leading to gum disease.

Store-bought kits are also less effective than in-chair whitening or professional take-home kits and require consistent, repeated treatments. This may end up costing you more over the long-term than investing in professional teeth whitening.

How to Maintain Your Whiter Smile

Professional teeth whitening can last from a little as six months to as long as three years depending on the level of care you put into maintaining your smile.

Avoid dark coloured beverages and foods such as red wine, coffee, chocolate and cola, as the pigment can restain your teeth. Quit smoking to avoid tobacco stains, and maintain a proper oral health routine that consists of twice-daily brushing and flossing, and rinsing once per day with mouthwash. Whitening toothpaste can be a great stain-prevention method to maintain your pearly smile.

Talk to Us

Our in-chair whitening takes about an hour. Ask us whether it, or take-home trays, would suit your teeth.