Dental Cleaning And Whitening
What causes teeth to turn yellow, black, or discolored?
Teeth discoloration occurs due to extrinsic (external) and intrinsic (internal) factors.
Extrinsic Staining (Surface Stains)
- Foods & Beverages: Tea, coffee, red wine, soft drinks, and dark-colored fruit or vegetable juices contain chromogens and tannins that stick to enamel, causing stains.
- Smoking: Tar and nicotine from cigarettes stain teeth yellow or black. Smoking also increases plaque buildup, leading to gum disease and tooth decay.
Intrinsic Discoloration (Internal Stains)
- Aging: Over time, enamel thins, making teeth more prone to stains from food and drinks, leading to a yellow or darker appearance.
- Injuries: Damage to teeth or gums triggers excess dentin production, darkening the tooth color. Blood from injuries can also seep into the tooth, causing discoloration.
- Medications & Medical Treatments:
- Certain antibiotics (tetracycline, doxycycline) taken during pregnancy or childhood can cause permanent discoloration.
- Asthma and blood pressure medications may also darken teeth.
- Excess fluoride exposure can lead to staining.
- Cancer treatments may cause tooth discoloration as a side effect.
How many types of teeth whitening treatment?
There are two popular and widely accepted teeth whitening methods:
1. Philips Zoom In-Office Whitening
This professional whitening treatment is performed in a dental clinic using a high-performance hydrogen peroxide gel combined with energy wave stimulation. A blue LED light with adjustable intensity helps break down stains, revealing noticeably whiter teeth immediately after the procedure. It is a safe and effective method that does not harm tooth enamel. Results vary based on individual tooth conditions.
2. Philips Zoom At-Home Whitening
This method allows you to whiten your teeth at home using a custom teeth whitening kit. The dentist takes an impression of your teeth to create personalized trays and provides an initial whitening session in the clinic. You then continue the whitening process at home with a professional-grade whitening gel. This option is ideal for those with busy schedules or those looking to achieve a higher level of whiteness over time.
What is the procedure for Zoom Teeth Whitening treatment?
Pre-Treatment Evaluation
- The dentist examines the oral cavity and checks the tooth shade before starting the whitening process.
- If tartar is present, it is removed, and teeth are polished or cavities filled to ensure the whitening gel works effectively.
Preparation & Protection
- A cheek, tongue, lip, and gum barrier is applied to prevent contact with the whitening gel.
- A protective gel is placed on the gums and surrounding tissues.
- The dentist wears blue light-blocking glasses for eye protection.
Application of Whitening Gel
- Teeth are dried using a blow-dry tool before applying the whitening gel.
- The Zoom WhiteSpeed blue LED light activates the gel, helping it penetrate the enamel and remove stains.
- This process transforms yellow, brown, or dark dentin into a whiter shade.
Repetition & Final Coating
- The whitening gel is reapplied and activated with light for 3–4 rounds, each lasting about 15 minutes.
- The entire treatment takes 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the tooth condition.
- A fluoride coating is applied at the end to reduce sensitivity.
Post-Treatment Assessment
- The whitening gel is removed, and the mouth is cleaned.
- The dentist compares the tooth shade before and after treatment to evaluate the whitening results.