Teeth whitening
Teeth whitening is a minimally invasive, effective and aesthetic treatment used to lighten the outermost surface of the tooth (the enamel).
What types of teeth whitening are there?
Generally speaking, there are 3 types of bleaching:
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In-office intensive external bleaching
It is the bleaching method of excellence, as it allows the use of bleaching products in the right concentrations, giving good results in a short space of time. Teeth whitening is performed by applying a gel to the tooth surface. The contact of the gel’s active ingredient with the enamel surface promotes a change in tooth color, resulting in a brighter smile. These products are applied under controlled conditions, protecting mucous membranes and teeth from possible side effects. This procedure can only be carried out by a dentist, who will accompany you throughout the whitening session.
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Outpatient external bleaching
Whitening is done by the patient, at home, by placing a whitening gel in individualized trays for each patient. This type of whitening should always be prescribed and monitored by a dentist.
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Internal bleaching
This type of whitening is reserved for teeth with endodontic treatment (devitalized). Over time these teeth can darken and this procedure is very effective in restoring or bringing their color closer to that of the rest of the natural teeth.
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Dr. Mariana Rebelo
Dentist with postgraduate training at the following institutions:
Dr. Beatiz Vaz Duarte
Dentist with postgraduate training at the following institutions:
White teeth? For how long?
The durability of the treatment depends essentially on post-treatment care. Habits such as consuming foods and drinks like coffee, tea, soft drinks or smoking can cause stains to appear and therefore change the color of your teeth.
According to studies, once tooth whitening has been carried out, the color of the teeth will not tend to return to its original color.
Can everyone have their teeth whitened?
There are few contraindications to tooth whitening. Most people over the age of 18 are eligible for this treatment. However, there are several factors to take into account when planning this procedure.
The presence of caries lesions, tooth wear, significant tooth sensitivity, among others, should be assessed before starting whitening. Another important factor is the previous presence of restorations, crowns, veneers or dentures, as these do not change color when the bleaching agent is applied.
After whitening, it may be necessary to replace previous treatments in order to harmonize the color of all the teeth.
Are there any side effects?
The main side effect associated with this treatment is tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is generally transient and disappears after the treatment is finished.
When treatments are carried out without medical supervision, there can be permanent adverse consequences. We therefore recommend that you always seek advice from a dentist at Clínica São Dente, so as not to irreversibly damage your teeth.
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Would you like more information or to make an appointment?
Don’t hesitate to contact us. Our extensively trained and highly specialized team will be happy to explain the whole process to you in detail.
