Contraindications for Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most preferred procedures in aesthetic dentistry. Individuals who experience discoloration of their teeth due to factors such as tea, coffee, or smoking aim to achieve whiter and brighter teeth through the whitening process. However, not every teeth whitening procedure may be suitable for every patient. In this article, you can find detailed information about contraindications for teeth whitening, clinical stages, and the history of teeth whitening practices in Turkey.

Contraindications for Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is generally considered a safe procedure, but it may be contraindicated in certain situations. To avoid risking dental health and encountering unwanted results, a thorough evaluation by a dentist should be performed prior to teeth whitening.

1. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

• Chemical Exposure: Teeth whitening products contain strong chemical agents. These chemicals may have the potential to harm the baby during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Safety Concerns: It is generally advised to avoid aesthetic procedures like teeth whitening during pregnancy and breastfeeding. During this period, dentists tend to opt for alternative care methods instead of teeth whitening.

2. Tooth Sensitivity:

• Pain and Discomfort: The teeth whitening procedure may cause pain and discomfort in sensitive teeth. Therefore, for individuals with sensitive teeth, it is necessary to address sensitivity before the whitening procedure is performed.
• Increased Sensitivity: The chemicals in teeth whitening products can create fine cracks or abrasions in the enamel. This situation may further exacerbate existing tooth sensitivity.

3. Gum Diseases and Cavities:

• Gum Irritation: In individuals with gum diseases, the chemicals used during the teeth whitening process can cause irritation and inflammation in the gums.
• Tooth Decay: Performing the whitening procedure on patients with cavities is contraindicated. Whitening products on decayed teeth can lead to further decay and more serious dental issues.

4. Restorative Dental Treatments:

• Crowns and Fillings: The teeth whitening procedure does not affect existing crowns and fillings. While natural teeth become whiter after the whitening process, restorations such as crowns and fillings retain their original color, which can create an aesthetically undesirable appearance.
• Restoration Needs: If restorations need to be performed on the teeth before the whitening procedure, teeth whitening should not be done until these procedures are completed.

Clinical Stages of Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening yields safer and more effective results when performed by a professional dentist. Teeth whitening performed in a clinical setting typically consists of several stages, and each stage is carefully planned.

1. Initial Examination and Assessment:

• Assessment of Dental Health: Before the teeth whitening procedure, your dentist will evaluate the overall health of your teeth. If issues such as decay, gum disease, or tooth sensitivity are detected, these problems will be addressed before the whitening process.
• Establishing Expectations: The patient's expectations and goals regarding the whitening process are determined. Your dentist will provide information about the maximum degree of whiteness that can be achieved as a result of the procedure.

2. Dental Cleaning and Preparation:

• Professional Dental Cleaning: Prior to the teeth whitening procedure, plaque and tartar accumulated on the teeth are cleaned. This process allows whitening products to penetrate the tooth surface more effectively.
• Protective Measures: During the teeth whitening process, special barriers are applied to protect the gums and the soft tissues of the mouth. These barriers prevent chemical agents from damaging the gums.

3. Application of Whitening Agent:

• Application of Whitening Gel: A whitening gel is applied to the teeth. This gel usually contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The effectiveness of the gel can be enhanced with special light or laser devices.
• Waiting Period: The whitening gel is left on the teeth for a specific period. This duration may vary depending on the current color condition of the teeth and the desired degree of whiteness.

4. Evaluation of Results and Care Recommendations:

• Control of Results: After the whitening procedure is completed, the color of the teeth is evaluated. If necessary, additional whitening sessions may be scheduled.
• Care Recommendations: After the whitening procedure, patients are given specific care recommendations to maintain the whiteness of their teeth. To preserve the effects of the whitening procedure for an extended period, it is advised to avoid foods and beverages that can cause staining.

The History of Teeth Whitening in Turkey

Teeth whitening practices in Turkey have seen an increasing interest in recent years. As part of aesthetic dentistry, teeth whitening procedures have become more common with the rise of aesthetic concerns both nationally and internationally.

1. Early Applications:

• 1980s: Teeth whitening procedures in Turkey began to be recognized in the 1980s alongside aesthetic dentistry. During this period, this procedure was offered to a limited number of patients, mainly in private dental clinics in large cities.
• Chemical Whitening: The whitening methods used in the early periods were conducted with low-concentration chemical agents. These methods generally took a long time to be effective, and the results were more limited.

2. Period of Widespread Adoption:

• 1990s: In the 1990s, teeth whitening practices became more widespread across Turkey. Developments in dental technology and increasing aesthetic demands contributed to the popularization of whitening procedures.
• At-Home Whitening: During this period, at-home whitening kits were also launched and began to be used by patients. However, whitening performed in a clinical environment provided more effective and safer results.

3. Present Day:

• Technological Advancements: Today, teeth whitening procedures in Turkey are performed using laser-assisted technologies and high-concentration whitening gels, enabling faster and more lasting results.
• Increasing Aesthetic Demands: The widespread availability of aesthetic dentistry services and the growing demand for teeth whitening procedures have led to the emergence of clinics and dentists recognized worldwide in this field.

The teeth whitening procedure is a popular option for those seeking a more attractive smile from an aesthetic perspective. However, it may not be suitable for every patient, and in some cases, it can carry risks. Therefore, it is important to consult with a dentist and evaluate all risks before undergoing teeth whitening.