Teeth Whitening is the process of using whitening materials to make teeth look whiter. The materials remove stains or other discoloration from the tooth surface. There are different methods of teeth whitening. These are known as in-office bleaching, take-home bleaching, or power bleaching. The purpose of teeth whitening is a cosmetic treatment done to improve the appearance of teeth. Teeth are whitened to remove the effects of coffee, cigarettes, and other substances that permanently stain or discolor teeth. Certain medications may also cause some discoloration of the teeth. Fluorosis which is a condition caused by absorbing too much fluoride, could also affect tooth color. Furthermore, aging also causes teeth to lose their bright color.

Keep in mind, that teeth whitening is not safe or effective for everyone. It is highly recommended to receive a dental exam before starting treatment. The dentist can advise the patient about the most appropriate procedure. The oral health professional will also discuss the expected results of treatment. Patients may expect yellow or gray teeth to be replaced with a bright, white color. However, whitening may not work well on some stain colors. Whitening may not be recommended for people with gum disease, receding gums, or sensitive teeth. The dentist may advise against certain treatments if the enamel is worn. Enamel is the outer layer of the tooth. There is no enamel on the exposed tooth root, so the root cannot be whitened. In addition, cavities must be filled before treatment begins. Otherwise, the patient could experience additional mouth sensitivity when treatment material comes into contact with decay or the tooth interior.