Teeth whitening is the process of changing and evening out the tone of tooth enamel. This procedure is performed in dental clinics and is considered a cosmetic treatment. There is a myth that such procedures damage enamel, but modern dental whitening is safe. Negative consequences usually arise from unskilled home attempts.
How Teeth Are Whitened in Dentistry
Teeth whitening at home or in a clinic are variations of the same procedure. Professional treatment is the key to a successful result. To ensure quality, dentists use reliable equipment and professional gels. Among all methods, several main options stand out:
- Laser whitening. The laser activates the components of the applied gel on the teeth. Pigment stains are removed not only from the enamel but also from the dentin. This allows for deeper effects and longer-lasting results.
- Chemical whitening. This method is suitable for people with healthy teeth and gums. Special multi-component gels and whitening toothpastes are used.
- Ultrasonic whitening. Sound waves act on the enamel and provide gentle abrasive action.
- “Home” kits. These are special sets that allow for color change, lightening teeth by 4–6 shades. Although considered non-professional, they should still be used in a clinic after professional cleaning for the best effect.
Each method is chosen individually after examination and consultation with a specialist. Despite these gentle procedures, many people try to whiten their teeth at home using folk remedies.
Disadvantages of Self-Whitening
Many wonder how to whiten teeth at home. Folk remedies are often used for this purpose. They not only negatively affect enamel but can also lead to serious problems:
- Baking soda is one of the popular options. Rubbing teeth with wet baking soda can lighten them, but it also thins the enamel, causing sensitivity and possible cavities. It can also irritate the gums, causing inflammation.
- Another popular method is crushed activated charcoal. Its downsides are similar to baking soda, with one major difference: it does not whiten at all. Scratches remain on the enamel, where pigments can penetrate, making it much harder to remove stains later.
- Using hydrogen peroxide is a first step toward tooth loss. This strong substance destroys enamel, making it porous like chalk. Such a structure leads to tooth decay and, in some cases, total crown loss.
- Acidic methods, including mixtures of baking soda and lemon juice, are also common. Acid erodes enamel and can burn soft tissues if it comes into contact. Despite natural components, this method is not safe.
As seen, all home remedies can lead to severe consequences that may be difficult to correct even in a dental clinic. It is much safer and more effective to invest time and money in professional whitening. Moreover, these procedures are usually cheaper than restorative treatments, veneers, or full tooth replacement.
