Everything You Need to Know About Teeth Whitening (Bleaching)
Over time, our teeth lose their natural whiteness and yellow due to factors like tea, coffee, acidic drinks, and tobacco use. Sometimes, genetically, our tooth color is simply not as white as we'd like. This is where Teeth Whitening (Bleaching) comes into play.
The most common concern my patients have is: "Doctor, will I damage my tooth enamel?" Let's clarify this from a physician's perspective.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
The short and clear answer is: Yes, it is completely safe when performed in a professional clinical environment.
Whitening gels used under the supervision of a dentist do not physically damage or abrade the enamel (the outermost layer). They only chemically dissolve the color pigments settled deep within the pores of the tooth. However, "natural" DIY methods marketed online (like lemon or baking soda) can irrevocably scratch and damage your enamel. Professional help is essential for safety.
Office Whitening vs. Home Whitening
At our clinic, we apply two different methods:
- Office Type Whitening (In-Office Bleaching): In the clinic, after protecting your gums with a special barrier, a high-concentration whitening gel is applied to your teeth and activated with a laser or blue light. It takes about 45-60 minutes and gives immediate results. Perfect for those who want instant transformation.
- Home Type Whitening (Take-Home Bleaching): We prepare custom transparent trays for you and provide special-dose gels. You wear them for a few hours a day at home for 1-2 weeks.
The Best Result: Combined Whitening
At Master Smile Studio, we highly recommend "Combined Whitening." We start with a fast transformation using the office-type method and then reinforce the whiteness with the home-type kit. This achieves the brightest and most permanent result possible.
How Long Does the Whiteness Last?
The effect of the whitening process usually lasts between 1 and 3 years. However, this duration depends entirely on your habits:
- The White Diet: Staying away from "colored" foods and drinks (red wine, coffee, dark sauces) for the first 48 hours after treatment is critical.
- Oral Care: With regular brushing and professional dental cleaning every 6 months, you can maintain the effect for much longer.
What About Sensitivity?
It's normal to experience hot-cold sensitivity for about 24 hours after whitening. Thanks to the special gels and anti-sensitivity applications we use, we ensure you get through this process with minimal discomfort.
A radiant smile increases your self-confidence. We invite you for a coffee at our clinic in Antalya to determine the most suitable whitening method for you. Click here to make an appointment.
