All about teeth whitening (teeth bleaching)
The aim of teeth whitening, also known as teeth bleaching or dental bleaching, is to whiten the outer layer of the teeth – the enamel, and to remove the discolorations that have appeared over the years.
The interest in teeth whitening has exploded in recent years and the assortment of different products and treatments is vast. This can make it hard to decide which method to choose since one often promises quicker and better results than the other.
On this page you will find easy, factual and independent information about the different methods for teeth bleaching. This will help you make the correct decision.
The content in this section has been reviewed by Elisabeth Bjorkman, authorised dentist and aesthetic dentistry specialist.
All you need to know about teeth whitening
- The various methods for teeth whitening and how they work
- The different teeth bleaching procedures and what results you can expect
- Information about risks and side effects of dental bleaching
- Cost information and a directory with all the clinics that perform professional teeth whitening
- A forum where you can discuss teeth bleaching and the possibility of asking an expert
Are you a suitable candidate for teeth whitening?
The results one can expect from a teeth whitening procedure is greatly determined by your condition.
Teeth that are discoloured due to medication, as well as teeth with genetically caused mineral disruptions may need a lengthy treatment. The results are generally satisfactory but depend on what type and how severe the discolouration’s are.
Bleach for teeth whitening is not to be used during pregnancy or breast feeding since no studies have evaluated the potential side effects caused to the foetus or child.
Individuals with shooting pain to the teeth, exposed roots, damage caused by brushing and thin enamel caused by erosion are sometimes advised against teeth whitening because of the risk of side effects, such as increased shooting pain.
Heavy smokers should be aware that the effects of teeth bleaching are considerably poorer. If one has stopped smoking then it is possible to achieve good results but the treatment time must often be doubled.
It is easy to bleach teeth with discolouration’s that are brownish-yellow (warm colours, often caused by age) in comparison to discolouration’s that are greyish-blue (cold colours).
Teeth bleaching of fillings and root filled teeth
Plastic fillings, crowns, bridges and other foreign materials in the mouth are not whitened by teeth whitening. If such are located in the front teeth they may need to be changed after treatment. However, the strength of the filling is not altered.
Even “dead” root filled teeth can be whitened, but with a different method that the one used for healthy teeth. The most popular method for whitening a root filled tooth involves applying the bleach inside the tooth. The bleach may need to be changed several times before the result is satisfactory.
