Darkening of tooth colour is a natural process that occurs over time. It can be attributed to both the secondary formation of dentin and the thinning of the enamel layer due to wear. It is greatly accelerated by the active intake of colouring foods and beverages such as coffee, cola, red wine, smoking and more.
Returning tooth colour can be achieved by applying professional whitening systems. As an active ingredient they use chemical agent – hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which breaks down the organic pigment molecules accumulated in the micropores of tooth enamel.
There are 2 methods for professional teeth whitening – in office bleaching and ‘at home’ bleaching.
In office bleaching
Advantages:
- It is performed once in the office within 1 hour- it saves significant time and effort on behalf of the patient.
- The bleaching agent is in high concentration and the effect is manifested very quickly.
- The effect is visible immediately after manipulation.
Disadvantages:
- Greater transient sensitivity of the teeth may occur. It lasts 1-2 days.
Preparation:
Before whitening, it is mandatory to do professional cleaning and polishing of the teeth and to cure all decayed teeth.
At home bleaching
Advantages:
- It is performed with individually made splints.
- The splint can be used for a long time. At the next bleaching procedure, only the whitening gel is purchased, which saves money.
- The bleaching agent is in a lower concentration and the probability of developing sensitivity is very small.
Disadvantages:
- The final result of bleaching is achieved around the 10th – 12th day.
- It is necessary to wear the splints daily during the specified period – day or night.
Preparation:
Before whitening, it is mandatory to do professional cleaning and polishing of the teeth and to cure all decayed teeth.
Internal bleaching of severely discoloured teeth
This method of whitening is performed on teeth that have undergone through root canal treatment, were filled with inappropriately coloured materials or have suffered from trauma in the past. Teeth that need endodontic/ internal bleaching change colour from grey to pink-grey or brown over the years and if externally bleached with standard whitening methods can not be significantly affected. Root treatment needs to be revised before bleaching. The advantage of internal bleaching is that no additional filing of dental tissues is required, and at the same time good aesthetic results are achieved.