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Children’s Dentist Many people desire whiter teeth to enhance their appearance, as a bright smile is closely linked to confidence. However, lifestyle factors and ageing can contribute to tooth discolouration, leading many to seek whitening treatments. With various options available, it’s important to understand the differences between professional treatments and over-the-counter products before deciding which one meets your needs.
Professional teeth whitening methods differ significantly from store-bought alternatives in terms of strength, safety, and effectiveness. They use higher-concentration whitening agents, which may lead to more noticeable results in some patients. Additionally, they are performed under professional supervision, which helps enhance safety and manage potential sensitivity.
Before recommending a whitening treatment, dental professionals assess each patient’s oral health and enamel condition. This personalised approach helps determine a suitable method while setting realistic expectations. If you have ever wondered, ‘What products do dentists use for teeth whitening?’ this blog will explore the common options used.
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Summary of The Content
- Dentists assess tooth discolouration by identifying intrinsic and extrinsic stains before selecting a whitening method suited to individual needs.
- Professional whitening differs from over-the-counter products in formulation, concentration, and application, with stronger agents requiring supervision for safe use.
- Hydrogen peroxide-based systems break down stain molecules through oxidation, with professional concentrations at 15%-40%, compared to 3%-10% in store-bought products.
- Carbamide peroxide systems release hydrogen peroxide gradually, making them suitable for take-home treatments and individuals with sensitivity concerns.
- Light-activated whitening systems may enhance peroxide breakdown, though scientific evidence on their effectiveness remains mixed.
- In-office whitening treatments involve high-concentration peroxide (25%–40%) with protective barriers and controlled application to reduce risks.
- Take-home whitening products provided by dentists use custom-fitted trays with professional-strength whitening gels (10%-22% carbamide peroxide) for gradual whitening.
- Maintaining whitening results involves good oral hygiene, avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks, and considering periodic touch-ups under professional guidance.
Professional Teeth Whitening: The Basics
Dentists take a structured approach to teeth whitening so that treatments address the specific type of tooth discolouration. A key factor in this process is distinguishing between stain removal and bleaching, as each requires different products and techniques.
Stain Removal vs. Bleaching
Not all whitening treatments work the same way. Some remove surface stains, while others lighten the natural tooth colour.
- Stain Removal:
This process involves removing plaque, tartar, and surface stains caused by food, drinks, and smoking through professional cleaning methods like scaling and polishing. Whitening toothpaste with mild abrasives can also help reduce surface stains, but they do not change the natural colour of the teeth. - Bleaching:
Bleaching treatments use peroxide-based agents to remove deeper stains by penetrating the enamel. Research suggests that these agents can oxidise certain compounds responsible for tooth discolouration. However, results vary depending on the type and severity of stains.
The Dentist’s Assessment Process
Before choosing a whitening treatment, dentists perform a thorough evaluation to determine the cause and severity of discolouration. Here are the steps:
- Visual Assessment of Stains:
Dentists begin by closely examining your teeth under proper lighting to determine the type, extent, and location of any stains. This helps identify whether the discolouration is likely to respond to whitening or if alternative treatments may be needed. - Reviewing Patient History:
Your dentist will also review your medical and lifestyle history. They will consider factors like diet, smoking, certain medications, and previous dental treatments, which can contribute to discolouration. Understanding these influences helps determine whether whitening is a suitable option or another approach may be more effective. - Identifying the Type of Stains:
Understanding the difference between extrinsic and intrinsic stains is essential for determining an effective whitening treatment.- Extrinsic Stains:
These stains form on the enamel due to pigmented foods, drinks (coffee, tea, red wine), and tobacco use. They often respond well to professional cleanings and whitening treatments. - Intrinsic Stains:
These stains occur within the tooth due to factors like ageing, medication, excessive fluoride, or trauma. These require stronger bleaching agents or alternative cosmetic dentistry options like veneers.
- Extrinsic Stains:
- Evaluating Oral Health:
Dentists assess enamel thickness, gum health, and any existing restorations to determine if whitening is safe and suitable.
Professional vs. Over-the-Counter Whitening
There are significant differences between professional whitening treatments and store-bought products in terms of strength, application, and safety. Here’s a look:
- Formulation:
Professional whitening products contain higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, whereas store-bought options have milder whitening agents. - Concentration:
Over-the-counter whitening products usually contain 3%-10% peroxide, while professional treatments are at 15%-40% for more noticeable results. - Application Method:
Dentists apply whitening agents precisely and use protective measures to help reduce gum irritation. In comparison, store-bought whitening relies on standard teeth whitening trays or strips.
A professional assessment helps determine whether a patient is a suitable candidate for whitening. Based on this evaluation, the dentist can recommend an appropriate method for the patient’s specific needs.
Common Professional Whitening Products Used by Dentists
For people with tooth discolouration, professional whitening treatments provide an effective way to brighten their smile. A common question is, ‘What products do dentists use for teeth whitening?’ since there are various options available. Whitening agents, primarily peroxide-based, help reduce discolouration by oxidising certain stain molecules. Different concentrations are used depending on the treatment approach, balancing effectiveness with patient comfort.
Hydrogen Peroxide-Based Systems
Hydrogen peroxide is a widely used whitening agent. It is commonly used in professional teeth whitening treatments, particularly in higher concentrations, to achieve more noticeable results. Its key features include:
- Whitening Action:
Hydrogen peroxide whitens teeth by breaking down stain molecules through oxidation, which helps lighten the overall tooth colour. - Concentration Levels:
Professional whitening treatments usually use 15%–40% hydrogen peroxide, allowing for stronger and faster whitening effects under dental supervision. On the other hand, over-the-counter teeth whitening products contain 3%-10% hydrogen peroxide. This makes them less potent, requiring longer use to achieve visible results. - Application Methods:
Hydrogen peroxide is available in different forms, including gels, solutions, and teeth whitening strips, which dentists apply directly or using trays. - Professional Supervision:
Stronger whitening agents, such as hydrogen peroxide, can cause gum irritation and sensitivity if applied improperly. Dentists provide a safe, even application while protecting your gums, reducing discomfort, and optimising results.
Using hydrogen peroxide in professional settings promotes controlled application, reducing risks while optimising the whitening process.
Carbamide Peroxide Systems
Carbamide peroxide is another commonly used whitening agent. It works more gradually than hydrogen peroxide, making it a preferred option for take-home teeth whitening treatments. Its key features include:
- Whitening Action:
Carbamide peroxide gradually releases hydrogen peroxide and urea. The hydrogen peroxide oxidises stain molecules over time, helping to reduce discolouration. - Concentration Levels:
Professional whitening products usually contain 10%–45% carbamide peroxide, allowing for different treatment durations and intensity levels. Lower concentrations are often recommended for patients with sensitive teeth to minimise discomfort. - Application Methods:
Carbamide peroxide is commonly used in take-home teeth whitening kits provided by dentists, usually in gel form. - Treatment Duration:
Since it releases oxygen more slowly than hydrogen peroxide, it allows for longer wear exposure, often requiring several hours or overnight use in custom-fitted trays. - Suitability for Sensitive Teeth:
Dentists may recommend carbamide peroxide for patients who prefer gradual whitening or those prone to tooth sensitivity. This is because it tends to cause less immediate irritation than hydrogen peroxide.
By offering a controlled and gradual whitening process, carbamide peroxide-based treatments offer an effective alternative for patients seeking a gentler approach to teeth whitening.
LED/Light-Activated Systems
Light-activated whitening systems use LED or laser light alongside peroxide-based whitening agents to enhance the chemical breakdown of stains. The theory suggests that exposure to light may accelerate the whitening process, but its effectiveness remains a topic of discussion. These systems are commonly used in dental clinics as part of professional teeth whitening procedures. Their key features include:
- Whitening Mechanism:
These systems emit LED or laser light to enhance the activation of hydrogen peroxide-based whitening agents. - Peroxide Activation:
Light exposure may stimulate the breakdown of stain molecules, potentially improving whitening efficiency. - Application Method:
Dentists apply hydrogen peroxide gels to the teeth and use light exposure as part of the treatment. - Protective Measures:
Gum barriers and shields are placed to protect soft tissues from irritation during the procedure. - Use in Professional Settings:
These systems are commonly used in dental clinics as part of in-office or in-chair treatments.
While light-activated whitening is a popular option, research remains inconclusive about whether the light itself enhances results beyond what peroxide alone can achieve.
In-Office vs. Take-Home Professional Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is available in two primary forms: in-office treatments and dentist-provided take-home whitening systems. Both options use peroxide-based agents, but they differ in concentration, application method, and treatment duration. The choice between the two depends on factors like stain severity, tooth sensitivity, and patient preference.
In-Office Professional Whitening Products
If you’re considering a dental appointment to address your stained or discoloured teeth, you might wonder, ‘What products do dentists use for teeth whitening?’ In-office or in-chair teeth whitening uses high-concentration hydrogen peroxide (25%-40%), allowing for more noticeable whitening within a shorter period. Due to the strength of these formulations, professional supervision is required for safe application and to minimise side effects like gum irritation and tooth sensitivity. Dentists use the following protective measures to enhance patient comfort during the procedure:
- Gingival Barriers:
Dentists apply a protective gel or shield over the gums to prevent irritation or chemical burns from the high-strength bleaching agent. - Desensitising Agents:
To reduce sensitivity, dentists may apply fluoride or special desensitising gels before or after whitening. These help strengthen enamel and provide relief, making the process more comfortable.
Typical In-Office Whitening Treatment Protocol
There are several carefully controlled steps in the in-office whitening procedure to promote both effectiveness and patient safety. Each stage protects oral tissues while allowing the whitening agent to work efficiently. Here’s a breakdown:
- Preparation:
The dentist applies cotton rolls and gauze to cover the mucosa and cheeks while a protective gingival barrier shields the gums from the bleaching agent and prevents irritation. - Application of Whitening Agent:
A high-concentration hydrogen peroxide gel (25%-40%) is applied to the teeth in controlled amounts to prevent uneven whitening or overexposure. - Processing Time:
The bleaching gel remains on the teeth for a specified period, often applied in multiple short intervals to help manage sensitivity and effectiveness. - Optional Light Activation:
Some treatments use LED or laser light to activate the bleaching agent. However, current studies yield conflicting results on whether it improves results beyond peroxide alone. - Completion and Follow-Up:
The procedure may be repeated over one to three sets. This depends on the severity of the stains and how the patient responds to treatment.
Since results differ based on individual factors like enamel thickness, stain type, and sensitivity levels, dentists adjust the number of sessions and concentration accordingly. While some patients notice changes after one session, others may need multiple visits at appropriate intervals, and some stains may not respond significantly to whitening.
Dentist-Provided Take-Home Whitening Products
Take-home whitening kits offered by dentists provide a professional-grade option for patients who prefer to whiten their teeth at their own pace. They contain peroxide-based gels in concentrations higher than most over-the-counter products, allowing for more effective stain removal. Since the treatment is supervised by a dentist, patients receive personalised guidance to help achieve the desired results while minimising discomfort.
How Take-Home Whitening Works
Take-home whitening involves a step-by-step process that allows patients to whiten their teeth gradually under professional guidance. Dentists customise the treatment to apply the whitening agent safely and effectively. Here’s an overview:
- Custom Tray Creation:
The dentist takes impressions of the patient’s teeth to create trays that fit securely and distribute the whitening gel evenly. - Application of Teeth Whitening Gel:
Patients receive a carbamide peroxide gel with instructions on how to apply it safely inside the trays. - Wearing the Trays:
The custom-fitted trays are worn for a set duration, usually one to six hours per day or overnight depending on the instructions. This allows for gradual whitening over time. - Monitoring and Adjustments:
The dentist monitors progress during follow-up visits and may adjust the treatment plan if needed.
Advantages of Take-Home Whitening
For patients seeking a more flexible and comfortable approach to teeth whitening, take-home whitening offers several benefits that make it a practical option. These include:
- Convenience:
Patients can whiten their teeth at home while following a treatment schedule that suits their routine. - Gradual Brightening:
Lower peroxide concentrations work over time, helping to reduce sensitivity while still achieving a natural-looking result. - Less Irritation:
The extended wear time with a milder formulation helps minimise potential irritation compared to stronger, in-office treatments.
At-home treatments are suitable for patients seeking flexibility and a gentler whitening experience while still benefiting from professional supervision and guidance.
Safety Considerations for Professional Teeth Whitening
When performed under the supervision of a dentist, professional teeth whitening is usually well tolerated. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate, and there are important safety considerations to keep in mind. Before recommending a whitening treatment, dentists assess a patient’s oral health, existing dental work, and risk factors to determine whether whitening is appropriate.
Who May Not Be Suitable for Teeth Whitening?
Certain conditions may make teeth whitening unsuitable or require additional precautions:
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
While there is limited research on the effects of teeth whitening during pregnancy and breastfeeding, some health professionals advise postponing treatment as a precaution. Patients should consult their dentist and healthcare provider before proceeding. - Active Tooth Decay:
Cavities must be addressed before whitening to prevent irritation or further enamel damage. - Exposed Dentine:
Thinning enamel or receding gums can lead to heightened sensitivity and discomfort. - Existing Restorations:
Fillings, crowns, and veneers do not respond to whitening, which may cause uneven colouring.
Common Side Effects and How They Are Managed
Like any dental procedure, professional teeth whitening may cause temporary side effects, but these can be managed with proper care and adjustments. Dentists take preventive measures to minimise discomfort and protect oral tissues throughout the treatment.
- Tooth Sensitivity:
Some patients experience increased sensitivity due to peroxide penetrating the enamel and exposing microscopic dentinal tubules. Dentists manage this by using desensitising agents, fluoride applications, or adjusting treatment duration to reduce discomfort. - Gingival Irritation:
Whitening gels can cause temporary gum irritation if they come into contact with soft tissues. Dentists apply protective barriers and adjust application techniques to minimise irritation.
Getting your teeth professionally whitened can effectively brighten your smile. However, a dental evaluation is key to knowing whether it’s suitable for you. This addresses any concerns and makes the treatment safe. Dentists customise whitening plans based on individual needs, helping patients achieve their desired results while minimising risks.
Safety Considerations for Professional Teeth Whitening
After professional whitening, keeping teeth bright requires consistent oral care and mindful habits. While whitening treatments effectively reduce discolouration, everyday factors can still lead to staining over time. By following recommended maintenance practices, patients can extend the longevity of their results and minimise the need for frequent retreatment.
Daily Habits to Preserve Whiteness:
- Brushing and Flossing:
Brushing twice a day with fluoride or whitening toothpaste helps remove surface stains. Flossing is just as important—it prevents plaque buildup, which can trap stains and dull your smile over time. - Using a Whitening Mouthwash:
Certain mouthwashes help maintain results by reducing stain accumulation and supporting enamel health. - Drinking Water After Meals:
Rinsing with water after consuming staining foods or beverages helps wash away particles before they adhere to the enamel. - Chewing Sugar-Free Gum:
Chewing gum increases saliva flow, which helps neutralise acids and wash away food particles that could cause staining. - Regular Dental Check-Ups:
Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that contribute to dullness, helping maintain the natural brightness of teeth.
Dietary and Lifestyle Considerations:
- Limiting Staining Foods and Beverages:
Drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, cola, and fruit juices can stain teeth. Foods like berries, tomato-based sauces, soy sauce, and curry may also contribute to discolouration. - Using a Straw for Dark Beverages:
Drinking through a straw reduces direct contact between staining liquids and tooth enamel. - Eating Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables:
Foods like apples, celery, and carrots help scrub the teeth naturally while promoting saliva production. - Avoiding Tobacco Products:
Smoking and chewing tobacco can cause deep stains that may reverse whitening effects over time. - Reducing Acidic Foods and Drinks:
Citrus fruits, vinegar-based dressings, and carbonated beverages can affect enamel surface, making teeth more prone to staining.
The duration of whitening effects varies based on individual habits and oral health. While results do not last indefinitely, patients who follow proper maintenance strategies can enjoy a brighter smile for an extended period. If your whitening results start to fade, your dentist can recommend touch-up options like custom take-home whitening kits or periodic in-chair whitening treatments. These small adjustments help maintain a refreshed appearance over time.
Final Thoughts
Professional whitening products can be a safe and effective way to brighten teeth, but the right option depends on individual needs. Dentists assess tooth discolouration, enamel health, and existing dental work before recommending a treatment. This personalised approach helps patients achieve whitening results while minimising sensitivity and irritation.
Outcomes vary between individuals due to factors like diet, oral hygiene, and natural enamel structure. Some patients may see noticeable changes after one session, while others require multiple treatments. A dental consultation allows for realistic expectations and a customised whitening plan.
If you are considering teeth whitening, consult a dentist to explore your options and choose a safe and suitable treatment. Book an appointment at Karrinyup Dental Centre to discuss your whitening goals with a dental professional.
