Many over-the-counter whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to lighten teeth. Look for a product with a low concentration of these chemicals to minimize sensitivity. Extrinsic stains on the surface of the enamel are most often caused by lifestyle habits and can be easily removed with a teeth whitening kit or at-home product. These products work by opening the pore-like spaces in the enamel to clean and lighten chromogens, or colorants, that have built up on the surface of the enamel.

A whitening pen, which is like a paintbrush for your mouth, also works well, says Dr. Messina. Choose one with a built-in brush that dispenses a whitening gel for convenient application.

Tooth staining

Tooth staining is a common dental issue and can be caused by smoking, drinking dark-colored beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, or cola, or eating foods high in acidity and pigments such as berries, tomatoes, or soy sauce. Poor oral hygiene is also a culprit, so brushing regularly and flossing daily are important in preventing tooth discoloration.

Intrinsic stains, or staining on the inside of the enamel, can be more difficult to treat. Stains that appear on the inside of the enamel may be due to medications such as tetracycline, or diseases including celiac disease or thalassemia. These stains can also be caused by excessive fluoride intake during tooth development or from taking supplements that contain too much fluoride.

Tooth discoloration

Teeth discoloration can be the result of many different factors. It can be caused by aging as the outer enamel wears down, which exposes the yellowish dentin underneath. It can also be caused by consuming dark-colored foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco products. It can be exacerbated by poor oral hygiene, which can cause tooth decay and gum disease.

Whitening treatments can help remove these stains. However, if these stains are not addressed, they will likely return. This is why it is important to follow a good oral hygiene routine and to visit your dentist for regular exams and cleanings.

It is also a good idea to avoid eating and drinking any coloured liquids for about a week following teeth whitening, as this will give the pores in your enamel a chance to re-seal. This will prevent stains from re-entering the enamel and undoing all of the hard work your whitening treatment has done.

Tooth sensitivity

Severe tooth sensitivity is uncommon after teeth whitening, but it can be uncomfortable. Understanding the causes of this sensitivity, implementing effective strategies for managing discomfort, and knowing when to seek professional advice are all crucial to avoiding prolonged discomfort.

It is not fully understood why whitening treatments cause tooth sensitivity, but the leading theory is that peroxides in whitening products weaken outer enamel and expose dentinal microtubules. These tubes lead directly to the nerves inside your teeth, causing pain when they are exposed to hot or cold foods and drinks.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity after a whitening treatment, try taking a pain reliever before the whitening process. You can also try rinsing with salt water or applying a toothpaste that contains desensitizing agents to help reduce the sensitivity you are feeling. Additionally, you can try avoiding very hot or cold foods and drinks to avoid making the sensitivity worse. Drinking through a straw can also help minimise contact between your sensitive teeth and liquids.

Bleaching

Whitening is a popular cosmetic treatment that helps patients look and feel their best. It can lighten tooth discoloration by several shades and is available from many sources, including whitening toothpastes and strips sold at drugstores, and whitening treatments offered by dentists in their offices.

Most whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide in varying concentrations, which is known to bleach the tooth enamel and lighten its color. Bleaching can also be done at home with whitening rinses that are applied twice daily for 14 days, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

However, there are a number of things that can compromise the effectiveness of whitening. It is important to avoid consuming food and drink that stain the teeth, especially dark-colored foods and drinks, before and after whitening. Bleaching agents can cause surface demineralization and reduction of enamel crystallinity, resulting in uneven results. Adding protective measures such as applying a gum shield or using a sensitivity toothpaste before and after whitening can help reduce these complications.