What Gives Teeth Their White Color?

The natural color of teeth comes from their structure, specifically the enamel and dentin layers. Enamel, the outer layer, is clear and tough. It acts as a protective shield for the inner parts of the tooth. Beneath the enamel lies dentin, which has a yellowish shade and gives teeth their main color. When enamel is thick and healthy, teeth appear whiter because the dentin is less visible.

Several factors can affect the whiteness of teeth. Age, diet, and lifestyle habits like smoking can cause the enamel to thin or stain over time. This makes the yellow dentin layer more noticeable, resulting in a duller color. Consuming coffee, tea, wine, or certain medications can also darken teeth.

Difference Between Dental Bleaching and Tooth Whitening

Tooth whitening and dental bleaching are both popular cosmetic treatments that helps brighten the natural color of teeth, but they work a little differently. Whitening treatments are generally non-invasive and usually focus on removing surface stains from the enamel, without changing the teeth structure. Common whitening methods include toothpaste, mouthwash, and over-the-counter whitening strips. These products help remove stains from food, drinks, or tobacco. They can make teeth look a bit whiter, but they may not reach deeper stains.

Dental bleaching, on the other hand, goes a step higher and is a more intensive process. It applies stronger agents, usually made with hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, directly to the teeth to reach stains below the enamel in the dentin layer. Bleaching is often done by a dentist. If you want a brighter shade and more lasting results, professional bleaching is usually the better choice.

The bleaching agents penetrate the enamel and reach the dentin, where they break apart stain molecules. This process doesn’t damage the tooth but instead makes the color of the dentin lighter.

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Types of Professional Teeth Whitening Treatments 

Laser Whitening

Laser Whitening is one of the quickest and most effective in-office treatments. During this process, the dentist applies a bleaching gel to the teeth and uses a laser to activate the gel. The laser helps the whitening agents penetrate deeper, lifting even the toughest stains. The treatment typically takes about an hour and can brighten teeth by several shades. However, some patients may experience mild sensitivity after laser whitening, as it’s a powerful treatment.

Pros:

• Provides the fastest and most dramatic whitening results
• Typically requires only one session
• Ideal for those needing quick, noticeable improvement

Cons:

• Can increase tooth sensitivity temporarily
• Higher cost compared to other methods
• Not ideal for people with pre-existing tooth sensitivity

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LED Whitening

LED Whitening works similarly to laser whitening but uses LED lights instead of lasers to activate the whitening gel. The dentist applies the gel to your teeth and shines an LED light, which triggers the bleaching agents. LED whitening systems are marketed as less powerful than laser whitening, but they generally use the same active agents (hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide).

This treatment is also quick and effective, often done in a single session. However, the results may be slightly less intense than laser whitening, so multiple sessions may be necessary to achieve the desired brightness.

Pros:

• Gentler on teeth, making it suitable for those with sensitivity
• Provides effective results with a gradual whitening approach
• Typically, more affordable than laser whitening

Cons:

• May require multiple sessions to achieve desired whiteness
• Results can take longer to appear compared to laser whitening
• Some sensitivity may still occur, although it’s milder

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Chemical Whitening (No Light)

Chemical Whitening is another option for in-office whitening. This method uses a strong bleaching gel, often containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which is applied directly to the teeth. Unlike laser and LED treatments, chemical whitening does not use light to activate the gel. Instead, the gel itself is formulated to break down stains. This treatment is effective for many types of discoloration and can be tailored to suit different levels of staining. While it’s powerful, chemical whitening can sometimes lead to temporary sensitivity.

Pros:

• Flexible treatment that works well on various types of stains
• Generally, less expensive than laser and LED treatments
• Good for gradual, controlled whitening over time

Cons:

• Can cause mild sensitivity, especially if teeth are already sensitive
• Takes longer to see results compared to light-activated methods
• May need more frequent applications for maintenance

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Home and DIY Whitening Alternatives 

At-home whitening options provide a convenient way to brighten your smile, including items like whitening toothpaste, gels, mouthwash, strips, and trays. But, these products usually only offer mild whitening effects. Whitening strips and teeth-whitening kits with trays contain stronger bleaching agents, allowing them to penetrate stains more effectively and create a noticeable difference over time.

Other whitening alternatives include natural and DIY methods like charcoal, coconut oil, and baking soda.

While these products and methods are generally considered safe, and natural, they come with certain risks. Charcoal, for example, is highly abrasive and can wear down enamel if used too often, potentially making teeth more sensitive. Baking soda, while effective in small amounts, can also erode enamel over time if overused. Coconut oil is generally safe but may not significantly whiten teeth on its own.

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!!! CAUTION !!!

While popular, are not recommended by dentists due to the risk of permanent enamel damage, even when used in moderation.

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Cost of Teeth Whitening in Iran 

Teeth whitening in Iran offers an affordable option compared to prices in many other countries. In-office treatments, like laser and LED whitening, are generally much less expensive in Iran than in the U.S. or Europe, and even Turkey which is famous for affordable dental prices.

Professional whitening prices vary depending on the type of treatment. The cost of common whitening treatments in Iran is quite reasonable. Laser whitening, the quickest and most intense option, typically costs between $100 and $200 USD per session. LED whitening, which is slightly gentler, ranges from $80 to $150 USD.

Note that each dental clinic may have its price list, and the costs can differ between one and the other. This is not only true for prices, but also for value criteria.

The price ranges provided in this table are average and approximate.

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Whitening for Sensitive Teeth 

For people with sensitive teeth, finding the right whitening option is important to avoid discomfort. Certain in-office treatments, like LED whitening doesn’t penetrate as deeply as laser treatments, making it a better choice for those prone to sensitivity.

Applying certain techniques can further minimize discomfort during whitening. Using toothpaste for sensitive teeth a few weeks before starting treatment can help strengthen enamel and reduce irritation. Taking breaks between whitening sessions also gives your teeth time to recover. For the best results and safety, consult with a dentist before beginning any whitening treatment, especially if you have a history of sensitivity.

For individuals with sensitive teeth, it’s best to avoid at-home and DIY whitening options, as even minor irritation can lead to significant discomfort.

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Preparation Before Whitening 

Start with a dental cleaning one or two weeks before whitening to remove plaque and tartar buildup, as these can prevent even whitening and reduce effectiveness.

A thorough dental examination is also important. Checking for cavities, gum disease, or other issues helps avoid complications during whitening. Whitening treatments can irritate decayed or damaged teeth, so it’s best to address any existing issues beforehand.

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Whitening Aftercare Tips 

Post-Whitening Care Tips

• Avoid dark-colored foods and drinks (coffee, tea, red wine) for the first 48 hours.
• Use a straw if you consume staining beverages to limit contact with teeth.
• Brush regularly with a whitening or non-abrasive toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque that can cause discoloration.
• Schedule regular dental checkups to keep teeth healthy and stain-free.

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Who Should Avoid Teeth Whitening

!!! CAUTION !!!

• People with gum disease or untreated cavities.
• Individuals with dental restorations like crowns or veneers (to avoid uneven color).
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (Due to the potential absorption of chemicals like hydrogen peroxide into the bloodstream, which could pose a risk).
• Anyone unsure about whitening should consult a dentist to ensure safety and effectiveness.