Bleaching
Tooth bleaching is a cosmetic treatment method for whitening teeth. Discoloured teeth are made lighter again with the help of bleaching agents, usually based on hydrogen peroxide. There are various methods:
In-Office-Bleaching
This method is carried out directly in the dental practice. It uses highly concentrated bleaching agents, which are often activated by special lamps to achieve fast and effective tooth whitening.
Home-Bleaching
With home bleaching, patients receive customised trays and a bleaching agent with a lower concentration. The application takes place at home over several days or weeks and is supervised by the dentist to ensure safety and success.
Over-the-counter products
Products such as bleaching strips or whitening toothpastes are also available, but are much less effective than professional methods.
Important notes
- The results of bleaching usually last for 1-3 years.
- Side effects such as temporary tooth sensitivity are possible.
- Bleaching is not suitable for everyone, for example if you have damaged tooth enamel or are pregnant.
- Crowns and fillings cannot be whitened.
Professional bleaching offers an effective solution for brighter teeth, but requires an individual consultation with a dentist to ensure optimal results and safety.
How long does tooth whitening last?
The durability of tooth whitening depends on the method and individual factors. With professional treatments, the result usually lasts 1-3 years, while home bleaching products last 6-12 months and over-the-counter products 3-6 months. Lifestyle habits such as smoking or the consumption of coffee, tea, red wine or cola can significantly shorten the result.
Good oral hygiene, regular professional dental cleanings and the use of special toothpaste help to extend the shelf life. Professional bleaching procedures often achieve the longest results as they use higher quality bleaching agents. Regular follow-up treatments can also stabilise the result.
To prolong the effect, colouring foods and drinks should be avoided, especially in the first few days. If possible, drinking with a straw helps. After eating discolouring food, it is advisable to brush your teeth or rinse them with water. Consistent dental care and regular visits to the dentist can significantly improve the durability of the bleaching.
Is tooth bleaching painful?
Tooth whitening is not usually painful, but can cause temporary discomfort. A common reaction is a short-term hypersensitivity of the teeth to cold or heat, which usually subsides on its own after a few days. The degree of sensitivity varies from person to person. Slight irritation of the gums, such as burning or redness, can also occur, but usually disappears after 1-2 days, especially if the bleaching agent has come into direct contact with the gums.
To prevent discomfort, professional teeth cleaning is recommended before treatment. Any dental defects should be treated in advance and a sensitivity test can be helpful. During treatment, care should be taken to ensure that the bleaching trays are used correctly and excess gel should be removed. The treatment should be cancelled if there is severe pain.
After bleaching, the use of special toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help to alleviate discomfort. Cold or hot food should be avoided at first. If the discomfort persists, a visit to the dentist is advisable. Most people find that bleaching is generally well tolerated. If you are prone to sensitive teeth, it is advisable to discuss this with your dentist in advance.