Best Teeth Whitening Dentists in Turkey

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening breaks down colour molecules inside the tooth using gels that contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The gel passes into the enamel and lightens the tooth's colour. The tooth surface is not ground away.

Whitening should not be confused with scaling and polishing. Cleaning and polishing remove surface stains and deposits, while whitening lightens the tooth's own colour. Most whitening toothpastes on the market also act mainly on surface stains.

Whitening works only on natural tooth tissue. Fillings, crowns and veneers do not change colour. If you have older restorations on your front teeth, they may need replacing after whitening.

How do in-office and at-home teeth whitening differ?

In-office and at-home whitening differ in the strength of the gel and the length of treatment. Both are done under a dentist's supervision, and some plans combine the two.

Some in-office systems use a light or laser. Studies have reached different conclusions about whether light adds to the result. High-concentration gels should not be used without a dentist's supervision.

How is teeth whitening done?

Teeth whitening starts with an examination and is carried out at the clinic or at home, depending on the method. In-office whitening usually follows these steps:

1. The dentist checks for decay, gum disease and exposed root surfaces.
2. Scaling is done if needed.
3. The current tooth shade is recorded.
4. Lips and cheeks are held back with a retractor and the gums are covered with a protective barrier.
5. Whitening gel is applied to the front of the teeth and left for a set time.
6. The gel is removed and the process may be repeated in the same session.
7. The new shade is recorded and a desensitising treatment may be applied.

For at-home whitening, impressions are taken first and thin custom trays are made. You put the gel in the trays and wear them for the time your dentist sets. At a follow-up visit, the colour change and any sensitivity are reviewed.

Who is teeth whitening suitable for, and who is it not?

Teeth whitening suits adults with healthy teeth who are unhappy with their natural tooth colour. The dentist decides on suitability after an examination. Teeth respond differently:

• Teeth darkened by age or by tea, coffee and smoking usually respond well.
• Yellowish teeth often lighten more easily than greyish ones.
• Stains caused by some antibiotics or excess fluoride may respond only partly.
• For a single dark tooth after root canal treatment, a different method called internal whitening may be considered.

Whitening is postponed or not advised in some cases, mainly untreated decay and gum disease. People with exposed roots from gum recession have a higher risk of sensitivity. Whitening is usually postponed during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Cosmetic whitening is generally not recommended for children and teenagers.

How long does whitening take, and how long does it last?

In-office whitening is usually done in a session of 1 to 1.5 hours, while at-home whitening generally takes 1 to 2 weeks. How much the colour lightens varies and cannot be known in advance.

The effect is not permanent, and the colour darkens again over time. In most people it lasts from a few months to a few years, depending on how much tea, coffee, red wine and tobacco they use. Your dentist may suggest occasional top-ups with home trays. Fillings or veneers planned after whitening are usually delayed by 1 to 2 weeks so the shade can settle and bonding works well.

In the first days, teeth pick up stains more easily. Avoid staining drinks and smoking, limit very hot or cold foods until sensitivity passes, use the desensitising toothpaste your dentist recommends and do not wear home trays longer than advised. Regular professional cleaning also reduces surface stains.

What are the risks and side effects of teeth whitening?

The most common side effect is tooth sensitivity, usually a brief twinge with hot or cold. It is generally temporary and eases within a few days after treatment. It may be stronger in people who already have sensitive teeth. Other possible effects include:

• Irritation, whitening or a burning feeling where gel touches the gums
• A colour mismatch between restorations and natural teeth
• Temporary white spots becoming more visible
• Increased sensitivity with too frequent or too long use

To reduce sensitivity, your dentist may suggest products containing potassium nitrate or fluoride. Taking breaks between home sessions can also help. If pain is severe or lasting, stop the treatment and see your dentist.

What determines the cost of teeth whitening?

The cost depends on the method chosen and the number of sessions needed. The price range on this page gives only a general idea. The main factors are:

• In-office, at-home or combined method
• Number of sessions
• The whitening system and gel used
• Production of custom trays
• Cleaning or fillings needed beforehand
• The clinic's city

What should you look for when choosing a dentist for whitening?

Teeth whitening is a dental treatment and should be done after an examination by a dentist. When choosing, check:

• Is your mouth examined before whitening?
• Are the risk of sensitivity and how to manage it explained?
• Are you told the name and strength of the gel used?
• Are you told in advance that restorations will not change colour?
• Is a follow-up visit planned?

Whitening is sometimes the first step in a wider smile design plan. You can compare dentists by city in the doctor listings on this page.