Aesthetic dentistry is a group of special treatments aimed at improving the appearance of the teeth. Thanks to modern technologies in devices, special materials and the increasing experience of doctors specializing in aesthetic dentistry, patients can perform treatments that will significantly improve the aesthetics of their teeth.
Teeth whitening is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic dentistry procedures at the Medical Clinic Podhale Art in Zakopane. Teeth discoloration is a common aesthetic problem. The whitening treatment is the most optimal, conservative option. The whitening mechanism is based on the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide and the penetration of free radicals into the enamel and into the discolored dentin. Then the discoloration is oxidized. Oxidation of the dyes present in the dentine changes the color to a lighter color. Whitening treatments performed under the supervision of a doctor do not weaken the structure of the tissues.
During the first visit, the dentist carefully examines the condition of the patient’s teeth and gums. If necessary, it protects cavities, then removes plaque and calculus, preparing the teeth for taking impressions, in order to make special splints, i.e. overlays in which the whitening agent is applied. The first treatment should be performed under the supervision of a doctor in the office. A small amount of whitening agent is applied to each space of the rail (overlay). The prepared splint is placed on the dental arch for a specified period of time. The patient receives instructions on how to use the whitening preparation. Following the guidelines provided by the dentist, he applies the whitening gel to the trays by himself at home. The tray whitening cycle lasts about 2-3 weeks. In short, this method is safe, effective and predictable.
Gel caps are usually worn overnight for about 8 hours. The gel gradually penetrates deep into the teeth, releasing oxygen. Thanks to the oxidation process, even the most troublesome discoloration disappears. The treatment is repeated for about 8-10 nights, depending on the individually selected whitening plan. The first effects are visible after two uses.
About two weeks after the end of the treatment and the stabilization of the color of the teeth, the dentist starts filling the cavities with a new, lighter color so that they are not visible.
It happens that naturally dark-colored teeth require a longer whitening period. That is why, at the Medical Clinic Podhale Art in Zakopane, the time of using the gel overlays is selected individually. In addition, temporary hypersensitivity, mainly to cold, may occur during the whitening process. If it is very troublesome for the patient, the dentist will use a special preparation to eliminate hypersensitivity.
The effects of overlay whitening are clearly whiter teeth. The correct light color appears within two weeks after the end of the treatment. Once whitened with this method, the teeth will always be lighter than before the application of the preparation. The whitening effect remains visible for an average of 2 years, but not always the natural (original) color returns. If the teeth become slightly discolored again, it may be advisable to repeat the whitening, but it is usually recommended every few years and only for one or two nights.
The result of the whitening treatment may be different – it is an individual matter. It depends primarily on the patient’s predisposition:
In order to maintain the whitening effect as long as possible, you should perform a dental checkup at least every 6 months and regularly take care of oral hygiene – remove plaque, follow the doctor’s instructions and minimize the consumption of fluids and foods containing dyes.
Cosmetic dentistry in our clinic in Zakopane currently provides a wide range of solutions, so the doctor will certainly adapt the whitening to the individual needs of the patient. We cordially invite you to consultations and treatments at the Dental Center at the Medical Clinic Podhale Art and at our branches in Waksmund and Nowy Targ.
