In-Office Teeth Whitening

Dissatisfaction with tooth color can negatively impact individuals' social lives and self-confidence. For this reason, teeth whitening procedures have become one of the important and frequently sought-after applications in dental aesthetics today. Teeth whitening (tooth bleaching), a cosmetic dentistry application, is gaining more interest today with increasing aesthetic expectations in addition to healthy teeth. This method is especially popular among individuals who want to achieve an attractive smile.

Teeth whitening is the safe removal of pigments that cause discoloration in the enamel and dentin layers of the tooth through continuously developed techniques and special active ingredients. Hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide products are most frequently used in whitening procedures. Both substances have similar mechanisms of action. Hydrogen peroxide is generally preferred for in-office whitening applied in a clinical setting, while carbamide peroxide is preferred for at-home applications. Dentist Emin Serhat Arıkan, who serves his patients in his clinic in Adana, explained how the in-office teeth whitening application, one of the teeth whitening methods, is performed and the points to be considered after the procedure.

What is In-Office Teeth Whitening?

In-office teeth whitening is a professional teeth whitening method applied by a dentist in a clinical setting, providing effective results in a short time. Before the application, plaque and tartar on the tooth surface are cleaned, then the gums are isolated with special protective materials, and high-concentration whitening gels are applied to the tooth surface. These gels, containing hydrogen peroxide or similar active ingredients, are activated with the help of special light or laser devices.

These devices do not provide whitening on their own; they only accelerate the chemical reaction. In-office whitening is usually performed in 2–3 sets of 30 minutes each and can be completed in approximately one hour. When done with the correct technique, it does not damage tooth enamel and is a safe procedure. However, temporary sensitivity may be observed in individuals with tooth wear or cracks. This condition is controlled with fluoride applications. After the procedure, it is recommended to avoid coloring foods such as coffee, tea, and cigarettes, and to reinforce the results with at-home whitening if necessary.

How is In-Office Teeth Whitening Performed?

• In-office teeth whitening application begins with the dentist conducting a detailed oral and dental examination of the patient. During this assessment, the condition of the tooth enamel, existing restorations, and the risk of sensitivity are taken into consideration to determine whether the whitening procedure is suitable for the patient.
• Before proceeding with the application, tartar, plaque, and calculus accumulated on the tooth surface are cleaned to ensure direct contact of the whitening gel with the tooth.
• Then, the gums are isolated with special protective materials, and a professional whitening gel, usually containing 25% to 40% hydrogen peroxide, is applied to the tooth surfaces.
• The applied gel is activated with the help of special light sources, ensuring that hydrogen peroxide releases oxygen and breaks down the discolored pigments in the tooth tissue.
• The dentist evaluates the patient's reaction throughout the treatment and may repeat the application in several sets until the targeted level of whiteness is achieved.
• After the procedure is completed, the teeth are cleaned, and the treatment is concluded by using fluoride or special desensitizing gels to prevent possible sensitivity.

Is In-Office Teeth Whitening Harmful?

Scientific research shows that in-office teeth whitening, when applied under the control of a dentist and using correct materials, does not cause a permanent negative effect on the teeth and surrounding tissues. In these applications performed in a clinical setting, the gums are isolated with special protective materials, and professional whitening agents that do not harm tooth enamel are used.

After the procedure, temporary tooth sensitivity may occur in some individuals. This condition usually arises due to the effect of the preferred whitening agents and is short-lived. These complaints are largely controlled with fluoride or desensitizing agents applied by the dentist and disappear within a few days in most patients. When performed with appropriate patient selection and the correct technique, in-office teeth whitening is a safe aesthetic dentistry application for teeth and gums.

How Should One Eat After In-Office Teeth Whitening?

After in-office teeth whitening treatment, it is recommended to avoid coloring beverages such as coffee, tea, and cola, as well as tobacco consumption, for the first few days to preserve the achieved whiteness.  During this period, since the tooth surface may be more sensitive to external factors, light-colored and non-staining foods should be preferred. Maintaining oral hygiene is also of great importance for the longevity of the treatment. Therefore, teeth should be brushed at least twice a day, and interdental cleaning should be effectively performed using dental floss and interdental brushes.

  What Should Be Paid Attention to After In-Office Teeth Whitening?

• After the teeth whitening procedure, staining foods and beverages that may cause discoloration of the teeth should not be consumed. Tobacco products should be avoided, especially for the first 24 hours.
• During this period, tooth surfaces may be more sensitive, so hard and sticky foods should be avoided, and teeth should not be unnecessarily strained.
• Regular and meticulous oral care is crucial to maintain the results obtained after treatment. Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day, and oral hygiene should be supported with mouthwash, dental floss, and interdental brushes.
• Furthermore, periodic dental check-ups should not be neglected to maintain dental health and preserve the whitening effect for a long time.