Teeth Whitening
A white smile largely depends on the natural shade of enamel, oral care, diet and habits. Over time, teeth may change color under the influence of food colorants, coffee, tea, tobacco, certain medications and other factors. Dentists refer to a change in tooth shade as discoloration.
Professional teeth whitening is a procedure that helps make the natural shade of your own teeth lighter. At the Medical Initiative Medical Center in Minsk, patients can choose between in-office whitening performed in the dental clinic and at-home whitening under the supervision of a dentist.
Before the procedure, a dental consultation is required. The dentist will assess the condition of your teeth and gums, identify possible contraindications, explain the preparation process and help choose the most suitable whitening method.
Teeth Whitening in Minsk
Why Teeth Change Color
The color of enamel and dentin is individual. The shade of teeth may be affected by:
- staining foods and drinks;
- coffee and tea;
- tobacco;
- certain medications;
- age-related changes;
- tooth trauma;
- endodontic treatment;
- features of tooth formation and maturation.
Not every type of discoloration can be corrected with whitening. For example, fillings, crowns, bridges, veneers and other dental restorations do not change color when whitening systems are used. Therefore, the dentist first determines the cause of discoloration and discusses the expected result.
How Professional Teeth Whitening Works
Teeth whitening is based on a chemical oxidation process. The active components of the whitening system affect pigments in the hard tissues of the tooth, which may make the shade lighter.
The result depends on the initial tooth color, the cause of darkening, the characteristics of enamel and dentin, the chosen method, and compliance with the dentist’s recommendations. It is not possible to promise the same effect for every patient or guarantee an “ideally white” shade in advance.
Available Teeth Whitening Methods
At Medical Initiative, professional whitening methods are used:
- in-office whitening — performed in the dental clinic;
- at-home whitening under dentist supervision — the patient follows the dentist’s recommendations at home.
The method is selected together with the dentist during the consultation.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
In-office whitening is performed in the dental office under the supervision of a dentist. Before starting the procedure, the specialist assesses the condition of the oral cavity and the readiness of the teeth for whitening.
Features of this method:
- the procedure is performed under the dentist’s supervision;
- one visit usually takes about 45–60 minutes;
- the desired result may require 1–3 visits — this depends on the initial tooth shade and individual response to the procedure;
- there should be no severe pain during the procedure, although temporary tooth sensitivity may occur.
The number of visits and the expected result are discussed with the patient after examination.
At-Home Teeth Whitening Under Dentist Supervision
At-home whitening is performed by the patient independently, but only after consultation and according to the scheme prescribed by the dentist. Daytime or nighttime use of the whitening system may be recommended.
Features of the at-home method:
- whitening occurs gradually;
- the first shade changes may become noticeable after 4–5 days;
- it is important to follow the duration, frequency and other recommendations given by the dentist;
- if significant discomfort occurs, the patient should contact the dentist.
It is not recommended to purchase and use whitening products independently without an examination. The dentist must assess the condition of the enamel, gums, fillings and other restorations in order to exclude contraindications and choose a safe whitening scheme.
Preparation for Teeth Whitening
Professional whitening requires a preliminary assessment of the oral cavity. Before the procedure, the dentist performs an examination and, if necessary, recommends preparation.
Important points to consider:
- whitening is performed only when teeth and gums are healthy;
- treatment of caries or gum disease may be required before the procedure;
- if plaque and tartar are present, professional oral hygiene is recommended;
- professional cleaning helps determine the initial tooth shade and prepare the enamel surface;
- only natural tooth tissues can be whitened;
- fillings, crowns, bridges, veneers and other restorations do not become lighter;
- after whitening, visible restorations may need to be replaced if their shade differs from the new tooth color.
The preparation plan is determined by the dentist. Do not start at-home whitening before consultation, especially if you have sensitivity, caries, bleeding gums, chips or cracks in the teeth.
Contraindications to Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening has certain limitations. The possibility of performing the procedure is determined by the dentist after examination.
Whitening may be contraindicated or postponed in the following cases:
- age under 16–18 years;
- pregnancy and breastfeeding;
- allergic reaction to components of the whitening system;
- pathological or age-related tooth wear with enamel loss;
- deep cracks on the enamel surface;
- exposed tooth necks;
- wedge-shaped defects;
- orthodontic treatment;
- caries or secondary caries;
- inflammatory periodontal diseases in the acute stage;
- other conditions identified by the dentist during examination.
This list does not replace a dental consultation. The final decision is made individually.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Professional teeth whitening is performed according to indications, contraindications and the scheme recommended by the dentist. Before the procedure, it is important to undergo examination and preparation. When using the at-home method, it is necessary to follow the dentist’s instructions precisely.
After whitening, some patients may experience temporarily increased tooth sensitivity. If the sensations are intense, persist or cause concern, you should contact your dentist.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost in Minsk?
The cost of teeth whitening depends on the selected method — in-office or at-home — and the required amount of preparation. Before the procedure, professional oral hygiene, treatment of teeth or gums may be needed. After whitening, some restorations may need to be replaced if their color noticeably differs from the new tooth shade.
Please check the current cost of teeth whitening and dental consultation with the administrators of the medical center. Prices listed on the website are for informational purposes only and do not constitute a public offer.
Booking a Consultation and Teeth Whitening Appointment
Before whitening, be sure to book a dental consultation. The dentist will assess the condition of your teeth and gums, explain whether the procedure is possible in your case, describe the preparation process and help choose either the in-office or at-home method.
Address:
Minsk, Yakuba Kolasa St., 42
Appointment phone numbers:
- +375 29 688 19 18
- +375 17 243 19 18
- +375 29 666 98 07
- +375 17 364 98 07
- 131 — single number of the medical center
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening
Can Fillings, Crowns or Veneers Be Whitened?
No. Professional whitening systems affect only natural tooth tissues. Fillings, crowns, bridges, veneers and other restorations do not change color. If necessary, the dentist may discuss replacing visible restorations after whitening.
Is Teeth Whitening Painful?
There should be no severe pain during the in-office procedure. Some patients may experience temporary tooth sensitivity during or after whitening. Any unpleasant sensations should be reported to the dentist.
How Long Does In-Office Whitening Take?
One visit usually takes about 45 to 60 minutes. To achieve the desired result, one to three visits may be required — this depends on the initial shade and individual characteristics of the teeth.
When Will the Result of At-Home Whitening Be Visible?
With at-home whitening, the first shade changes may become noticeable on day 4–5. The effect develops gradually when the scheme prescribed by the dentist is followed.
Is Professional Cleaning Needed Before Whitening?
If plaque and tartar are present, the dentist will recommend professional oral hygiene. It helps prepare the teeth for the procedure and more accurately determine their initial shade.
Can Teeth Whitening Be Done During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding?
No. Pregnancy and breastfeeding are contraindications to teeth whitening. Discuss with your dentist when the procedure can be performed safely.
Can Teeth Be Whitened During Braces Treatment?
No. Whitening is not performed during orthodontic treatment. It is better to discuss the possibility of the procedure with the dentist after the active stage of treatment is completed.
How Can I Find Out the Price of Teeth Whitening?
The cost depends on the selected method — in-office or at-home — and the required preparation. You can check the current price and book a consultation by calling the medical center or the single number 131.
