Teeth whitening is a popular treatment that many people use to achieve brighter, whiter teeth.

However, there's a lot of misinformation about this procedure. This article aims to shed more light on teeth whitening and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this treatment.

How Does Whitening Treatment Work?

Teeth whitening treatment typically uses either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as the bleaching agent. When these agents come into contact with your teeth, they break down into oxygen molecules. These oxygen molecules then penetrate the enamel and dentin of your teeth, causing the stains to fade.

Usually, the concentration of the bleaching agent is low, so it doesn't damage your teeth. However, using a whitening treatment with a high concentration of the bleaching agent can cause tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, and other side effects.

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Treatment Take?

The length of time that the treatment is applied will determine how successful the bleaching will be. In general, deeper stains may require more time to lighten. It takes longer for the bleaching agent to penetrate through the layers of your teeth.

The type of whitening treatment you use will also play a role in how long it takes to work. At-home treatments usually take longer to work than professional treatments. DIY treatments can sometimes only bleach the outermost layer of your teeth, while professional treatments can reach all the way to the inner layers.

Additionally, some teeth are more resistant to bleaching than others. For example, teeth stained by dark beverages such as coffee or tea may require multiple treatments to achieve the desired results.

What Are the Different Types of Teeth Whitening Treatments?

There are two main types of teeth whitening treatments –– at-home treatments and professional treatments.

At-home teeth whitening treatment usually involves using a bleaching kit that you can buy over the counter. These kits typically include a bleaching gel or strips that you apply to your teeth for a specific time.

There are also some natural teeth whitening treatments that you can try at home. These include using baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, or lemon juice. However, it's important to note that these natural treatments may not be as effective.

Professional teeth whitening treatment is done at the dentist's office. The dentist will apply a bleaching agent to your teeth and use a special light to activate the agent. This treatment is usually more expensive than at-home treatments but is also more effective.

Teeth whitening treatment is a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of your smile. With proper care, your teeth will stay white for months or even years.