It's very popular these days! Is there any harm in teeth whitening?
Foods and beverages consumed throughout the day and diet play a significant role in determining tooth color. Oral and Dental Health Specialist Arzu Tekkeli emphasized that frequent tea and coffee consumption, tobacco use, and lack of care are significant factors in tooth yellowing. She said, "Additionally, aging, genetics, certain diseases, and certain antibiotics taken by the mother during pregnancy or in childhood can also damage tooth enamel and cause discoloration. Yellowing can also be observed in some cancer patients whose salivary secretion decreases due to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, as the natural cleaning process of the teeth is disabled. Whitening medical-grade toothpastes, while less effective, can be considered supportive. However, abrasive products like baking soda or coal dust, which can damage teeth, should be avoided."
Tekkeli explained that whitening involves lightening teeth by several shades. "It's unrealistic to talk about unlimited whitening," he said. "Therefore, patients should be especially careful and avoid places that promise whiteness beyond natural limits. It's important to remember that with the latest technology, teeth can only be whitened by two or three shades. Furthermore, this isn't possible for every patient; some teeth can only be lightened by one shade."
Tekkeli explained that whitening is performed in three 15-minute sessions after the examination, provided the dentist assesses the likelihood of successful results. "In the first step, a material is applied to protect the gums and tissues, then a whitening gel is applied, ensuring it only touches the tooth surface. The process is then completed with a special whitening light. Because the whitening effect will continue for the next 24-48 hours, it's important for the patient to avoid beverages like tea, coffee, and fruit juice during this time. For long-term whitening, it's important to use the products recommended by the dentist," he said.
Tekkeli explained that teeth whitening lasts for a maximum of two years, saying, "While this is a reasonable and sufficient time for many people who undergo whitening for a special occasion or to feel good, unless patients change their diet, their teeth will eventually return to their original color. We must remember that vitamins D and C are two important nutrients for the health of our bones and teeth. A deficiency in these two vitamins can lead to tooth weakness and discoloration. Therefore, vitamin levels should be checked during routine health checks."
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