Definition and objectives

The correct term of whitening is actually ‘lightening’. The result is always dependent in the initial colour of the tooth.

Most whitening techniques use hydrogen peroxide or one of its derivatives.

The efficacy of the procedure depends on concentration. The products used by your dentist are much more effective and concentrated than over-the-counter products.

Their efficacy is enhanced by use of specific or laser lamps.

Prior to surgery

Whitening techniques are suited to patients with healthy teeth and with their natural teeth. Prostheses cannot be whitened. The whitening method is chosen as a function of tooth colour.

The procedure

This is a painless procedure. Teeth are whitened in one of two ways:

- At a dental clinic

1 to 2 sessions lasting 30 to 60 minutes in a dentist chair.

The products used are extremely potent. The gums are protected before the whitening gel is applied.

The gel is activated by application of blue light emitted by a special lamp.

The mouth is rinsed and a protective veneer may be applied.

- At home

This technique requires a mouth guard to be made up.

Two moulds are taken by your dentist (lower and upper jaw).

Two mouth guards are made up. They are slightly oversized compared to your teeth in order to contain the whitening gel.

You are given a kit containing whitening syringes and the 2 mouth guards.

You carry out the treatment at home, preferably in the evening.

The gel is applied to the mouth guard which is kept on for 60 minutes a day.

Treatment takes 10 to 15 days.

It may be interesting to treat the upper part of the mouth first then the lower part in order to see how effective the treatment is.

After-effects

After any whitening session, the tooth enamel is more porous. It is advisable not to consume food and drinks containing pigments to prevent any discoloration.

Whitening is a delicate technique and needs to be supervised by your dental surgeon.

The whitening gel used at the dentist is very strong and requires the gums to be protected.

Sensitivity can occur after whitening. This should stop shortly after treatment ends. If it continues, do not hesitate to contact your dentist.