This professional tooth whitening treatments article is courtesy of Orhodonticsforyou.co.uk:

Whitening has been gaining immense popularity in recent years due to their effective and long-lasting results. But have you ever wondered how these treatments work? The science behind teeth whitening solutions revolves around the chemical process of bleaching. Teeth whitening treatments aim to remove stains and discoloration from the enamel and dentin of the teeth, resulting in a brighter, whiter smile. Let’s break down the science behind the process:

The Structure of a Tooth

To understand teeth whitening, it’s important to know the basic structure of a tooth. The outermost layer is called the enamel, which is a hard and mineralized substance protecting the underlying dentin. The dentin, located beneath the enamel, contains microscopic tubules that lead to the tooth’s inner pulp.

Teeth Staining and Discoloration

Teeth can develop two types of stains, extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic stains occur on the surface of the teeth (the enamel) and are caused by external factors like food and drink (coffee, tea, red wine and some curries for example), tobacco use, and poor oral hygiene. On the other hand, intrinsic stains occur within the tooth structure and are often caused by factors such as ageing, dental trauma, particular medications or excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development.

Both extrinsic and intrinsic stains are responsible for the discoloration of teeth and the reason why so many people are now turning to professional teeth whitening treatment to enhance their smile.

Bleaching Agents

The primary components used in teeth whitening treatments are bleaching agents, typically hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) or carbamide peroxide.

Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful bleaching agent used in many professional teeth whitening treatments. It is highly effective at breaking down stains. When applied to the teeth, hydrogen peroxide penetrates the enamel and reaches the dentin, which is responsible for the tooth’s overall color.

Carbamide peroxide is another commonly used bleaching agent in professional teeth whitening treatments. It is a derivative of hydrogen peroxide and works in a similar way, albeit much slower. Carbamide peroxide breaks down into hydrogen peroxide when applied to the teeth. The hydrogen peroxide then undergoes the same process of breaking down the pigmented molecules to reduce or remove the staining to achieve a whiter smile.

Oxidation Process

The bleaching agents used in teeth whitening treatments are oxidizing agents, meaning, they release oxygen molecules. When the bleaching agent comes into contact with the teeth, it penetrates the enamel and dentin, where it then breaks down the larger stain molecules into smaller, less pigmented ones. This process involves the release of oxygen ions that react with the chromogens (color-producing compounds) in the stains, effectively oxidizing and reducing their concentration.

Peroxide Penetration

The bleaching agents need to penetrate the enamel to reach the dentin where intrinsic stains reside. Hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide molecules are small enough to penetrate the enamel and enter the dentin. Once in the dentin, they continue the oxidation process, targeting and breaking down the molecules responsible for intrinsic stains.

Activation

In some cases, teeth whitening treatments are activated by light or heat. Light-activated or laser-assisted whitening techniques use a specialized light source to activate and accelerate the bleaching process. The light or heat helps initiate the breakdown of the peroxide molecules, leading to faster and more efficient stain removal.

Tooth Sensitivity

Teeth whitening treatments can cause temporary tooth sensitivity for some patients. This sensitivity occurs because the bleaching agents can temporarily open the tubules in the dentin, exposing the nerves to external stimuli. However, the good news is that the sensitivity usually subsides shortly after the treatment, and desensitizing agents can be used to minimize discomfort during and after the procedure. We have a separate blog on how to deal with sensitivity after teeth whitening here.

Post-Treatment

After the professional teeth whitening treatment, it is important to follow the instructions provided by your orthodontist (or dentist). This typically includes avoiding certain foods and drinks that can stain the teeth, practicing good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups. Following these instructions will help prolong the results of your dental whitening treatment.

Professional teeth whitening treatments harness the power of hydrogen or carbamide peroxide to effectively remove and lighten tooth stains. By breaking down pigmented molecules within the enamel and dentin, these treatments can achieve noticeable whitening results. However, it is crucial to undergo professional teeth whitening under the guidance of a dental professional to ensure safety and optimal results. With the science behind professional teeth whitening demystified, you can make informed decisions to achieve a brighter, whiter and more confident smile.