TOOTH BLEACHING

What is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment that lightens the colour of natural teeth, helping to create a brighter and more even-looking smile.

Natural teeth are not completely white. Their colour can range from lighter shades to yellowish or brownish tones, depending on genetics, age, the structure of the enamel and dentine, and individual habits.

Over time, tooth colour may change due to factors such as:

• Frequent consumption of coffee, tea or wine;
• Smoking;
• The natural ageing of the teeth;
• Certain medicines;
• Dental trauma;
• Changes that occurred while the teeth were developing.

When clinically appropriate and supervised by a dentist, teeth whitening is a conservative option for improving tooth colour without significantly altering the dental structure.

How does Teeth Whitening work?

Whitening involves the controlled application of a whitening gel. Its active agents pass through the enamel and act on pigments within the enamel and dentine, making them less visible.

Before treatment, the dentist assesses the health of the teeth and gums, identifies the cause of the discolouration and determines whether whitening is suitable for the patient.

Depending on the clinical assessment and the product used, treatment may be carried out at the dental practice or through a dentist-supervised home whitening protocol.

What results can be expected?

Changes in tooth colour can be monitored using a shade guide or clinical photographs. However, results vary between patients and depend on the initial tooth colour, the cause of the staining, the structure of the teeth and the individual response to treatment.

A particular shade of white cannot be guaranteed in advance. The aim should be to achieve a natural result suited to the characteristics of each smile.

Whitening only affects natural teeth. Fillings, crowns, veneers, bridges and other dental prostheses do not change colour during treatment. When these are present in visible areas, their integration with the new tooth shade may need to be assessed.

Is Teeth Whitening safe?

Teeth whitening is considered a conservative treatment when it is correctly prescribed, performed using appropriate products and supervised by a dentist.

Tooth decay, gum inflammation, dental wear or other oral health conditions may need to be treated before whitening begins.

Some patients may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation during or after treatment. These symptoms should be reported to the dentist so that the whitening protocol can be adjusted.

How long do the results last?

The results are not permanent. Teeth may gradually become darker again due to natural ageing and the consumption of coffee, tea, wine, tobacco or other highly pigmented products.

Good oral hygiene, regular dental appointments and following the dentist’s recommendations can help preserve the result.

To find out whether this treatment is suitable for your smile, book a Teeth Whitening assessment at Wave Dental in Coimbra, Juncal or Valado dos Frades, in the municipality of Nazaré.