Achieving a whiter, healthier smile with teeth whitening (bleaching) treatments in Izmir is now easy at Avrupadent! Daily consumption of tea, coffee, and cigarettes can darken teeth over time. Thanks to Avrupadent’s expert team and advanced whitening technologies, your teeth will quickly lighten by several shades, restoring their natural shine. Avrupadent is waiting for you for an effective, safe, and aesthetic teeth whitening treatment in Izmir.
What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a professional procedure used to remove stains from the tooth surface or to lighten the natural color of teeth. In-office whitening, which uses highly concentrated peroxide gels to lighten teeth by several shades, is performed under the supervision of a dentist. This method, which dates back to the late 1800s, gained popularity in the 1980s with the increasing interest in cosmetic dentistry.
Today, this method, usually performed with lasers or special lights, can deliver effective results in a single visit. The FDA considers whitening devices Class I, a low-risk category, and requires them to be registered to ensure compliance with safety standards.
How Is Teeth Whitening Done?
Teeth whitening is performed by applying highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide (HP) or carbamide peroxide to the surface of the teeth. These substances penetrate deep into the tooth structure and oxidize pigment molecules, removing tooth discoloration. Energy sources such as light or laser can be used to accelerate the reaction during whitening.
- High-intensity whitening gel
- Heat-enhancing light or laser
- Dyes containing photothermal agents
- HP penetrates microscopic enamel prisms
- Oxygen species diffuse into the dentinal tubules
These assistive technologies increase the temperature of the gel, accelerating HP’s molecular mobility and making stain oxidation more efficient. Various techniques can be applied to increase the intensity of whitening, including longer application times or higher HP doses. Furthermore, light and laser activation aim to accelerate tooth whitening without damaging the pulp tissue.
However, research shows that using light or laser is not always better; in some cases, at-home whitening systems can provide similar results. Therefore, determining the correct method and application time is important to keep tooth sensitivity to a minimum.
When Is Teeth Whitening Used?
Office teeth whitening is an effective, professionally applied method for restoring the natural whiteness of teeth and is preferred when traditional methods are inadequate. Performing it under the supervision of a dentist is advantageous for achieving fast results and long-lasting effects.
- Indications for office-based whitening include:
- Extrinsic stains: Coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco
- Intrinsic stains: Aging, trauma, medication use
- Need for fast results: Visible results in a single session
- Even whitening: Uniform results across all teeth
- Aesthetic needs: Improving the appearance of your smile
- Sensitivity concerns: Providing clinical control
This method achieves uniform whitening by using high peroxide concentrations and, in some cases, light or heat. The application can be customized to the individual’s tooth structure, providing ideal results, especially for individuals with intense staining or high aesthetic concerns. It is also suitable for individuals with tooth sensitivity, and additional sensitivity-reducing techniques, such as low-intensity lasers, are used under the guidance of the dentist.
Who Is Teeth Whitening Not Suitable For?
In-office teeth whitening may not be suitable for every patient and is considered contraindicated in some cases. Whitening is not recommended for individuals with receding gums or weak enamel; this can increase sensitivity and cause discomfort. Additionally, teeth containing restorative materials do not respond to whitening agents, which can lead to color incompatibility and additional treatment costs.
- Gum recession
- Enamel weakness
- Acid-related dental problems such as GERD
- Teeth containing composite fillings or veneers
- Those with sensitivity issues
- Those at risk of UV or laser light sensitivity
Whitening may also be beneficial for individuals taking photosensitizersAccelerating the bleaching process with light is not recommended. Similarly, this procedure is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women; due to the lack of safety evidence, the risks of peroxide ingestion should be avoided. Furthermore, it is not considered suitable for children under 10 years of age due to the developing tooth structure and pulp sensitivity that may pose a risk to younger age groups.
- Those taking photosensitizers
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Children under 10 years of age
Whitening is also not suitable for individuals with high expectations of results. Due to the risk of dissatisfaction, patients with realistic expectations regarding dental aesthetics may achieve better results from bleaching.
How Is Teeth Whitening Applied?
In-office teeth whitening is usually performed using a high-percentage hydrogen peroxide-based gel application and provides effective results. The process aims to achieve the desired whiteness of the patient’s teeth and consists of several stages:
- Teeth cleaning
- Barrier application to protect the gums and lips
- Application of hydrogen peroxide-based gel
- Use of light or laser to enhance the gel’s effectiveness
- Measurement and observation of tooth color
Before the procedure, the dentist cleans the teeth, removes surface stains, and ensures the whitening gel is applied directly to the tooth surface. A barrier material is applied to protect sensitive areas. The gel is usually applied to the teeth at a concentration of 15% to 38%; while higher concentrations provide rapid whitening, they can increase the risk of sensitivity. Devices such as light or laser can be used at this stage; this speeds up the whitening process and also provides visible whitening.
The gel can be applied several times during the treatment to achieve the desired whitening level. Fluoride or desensitizing agents may be used at the end of the treatment to support enamel integrity and reduce sensitivity. Patients should avoid staining foods such as cigarettes and coffee and maintain regular oral hygiene to ensure permanent whitening of their teeth after treatment.
What Are the Side Effects of Teeth Whitening?
In-office teeth whitening procedures can lead to certain side effects and complications due to the use of high concentrations of whitening agents. One of the most common of these side effects is tooth sensitivity. This sensitivity, caused by the whitening agents passing through the enamel layer and reaching the dentin, increases the teeth’s response to hot or cold stimuli and is usually temporary. However, it may take longer in individuals with preexisting enamel erosion or dentin loss.
The strong whitening gels used can cause irritation or chemical burns when they come into contact with the gums and soft tissues. This usually occurs when the whitening agent accidentally comes into contact with the soft tissues. Using protective barriers to protect the gums reduces the risk; however, caution is still necessary during treatment.
- Tooth sensitivity
- Gum and soft tissue irritation
- Changes in enamel structure
- Systemic effects
- Allergic reactions
In some cases, whitening agents have been observed to cause changes in the mineral structure of enamel. Enamel may become more porous and more susceptible to discoloration. Long-term whitening can weaken the enamel’s ability to protect teeth. Furthermore, although rare, accidental ingestion of whitening agents can cause systemic effects. People allergic to peroxide compounds may experience symptoms such as redness, swelling, and discomfort in the mouth.
How Successful is Teeth Whitening?
In-office teeth whitening is a popular aesthetic procedure with high success rates and rapid results. Patients can see several shades of whitening in a single session, especially when using hydrogen peroxide-based treatments. These dentist-administered methods use high hydrogen peroxide concentrations to provide effective and lasting results.
Key ingredients used:
- 25%–38% hydrogen peroxide
- LED or laser light
Light sources such as LED or laser light, when combined with hydrogen peroxide, accelerate the whitening process, giving teeth a longer-lasting shine. Clinical studies indicate that in-office whitening procedures using 35% hydrogen peroxide provide immediate, visible results.
However, there are also treatment-related side effects. Tooth sensitivityThis is a very common problem due to the use of high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. Sensitivity can occur in approximately 70% of patients during treatment. Neutral pH gels and short application times have been developed to reduce this problem, aiming to provide patients with a more comfortable treatment.
How Should Post-Whitening Care Be?
Post-whitening care should be meticulously performed to maintain the whitening effect for a long time and maintain dental health. Care in the first days after treatment optimizes the results and reduces the risk of sensitivity. Post-treatment care instructions not only preserve the shine of your teeth but also help strengthen the enamel.
Avoid stain-causing foods
- Coffee
- Tea
- Red wine
- Cola
- Mustard
- Chocolate
Avoid smoking
- Especially for the first few days
- Nicotine can cause stains
Practice oral hygiene
- Brush your teeth twice a day
Flossing your teeth
- Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Use desensitizing products
- Desensitizing toothpaste
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen
Increase water intake
- Cleanses stain-causing substances
- Provides moisturizing
Limit whitening touch-ups
- Touch-ups every six months are appropriate
Avoid over-whitening
Avoid hot and cold foods
Prioritize warm options
Limit your intake of acidic foods to keep your teeth white. These foods can damage enamel over time. Six-month check-ups with your dentist can help maintain both your whitening results and your overall dental health.
Izmir Teeth Whitening Prices
Teeth whitening is a popular method for achieving a more aesthetically pleasing smile and gaining self-confidence. Prices for this treatment can vary depending on the techniques used, the quality of the materials, and individual needs.
- Method Used
In-office whitening performed under the supervision of a dentist is more expensive than whitening performed with at-home trays. Laser treatments are priced higher because they offer faster results.
- Treatment Area
Whitening procedures applied to a specific group of teeth are more affordable. However, procedures applied to all teeth may increase the price.
- Treatment Duration
Procedures that provide quick results may be more expensive depending on the advanced technology used.
- Choosing a Doctor and Clinic
The experience of the treating doctor and the quality of the clinic’s service affect the price. Treatment at a reputable clinic with high-end equipment may be more expensive.
- Additional Materials and Products
Care products and protective gels used after the whitening procedure may incur additional costs. Regular use of these products is recommended for longer-lasting results.
