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Teeth Whitening

Teeth Whitening

Learn how to brighten your smile with our articles on Teeth Whitening. Find out about different bleaching methods, safety tips, and how to achieve the best results.

Learn how to brighten your smile with our articles on Teeth Whitening. Find out about different bleaching methods, safety tips, and how to achieve the best results.

  • Teeth Bleaching: What You Need to Know Before and After

    Teeth Bleaching: What You Need to Know Before and After

    Teeth bleaching is a simple and effective way to brighten your smile by several shades. At Dental21, we offer both in-office and at-home teeth whitening using the Fläsh system, a state-of-the-art method that provides safe and noticeable results. This comprehensive guide will explain how to prepare before your bleaching session, what to do after, and answer common questions about the treatment, ensuring you maintain your bright smile for as long as possible. Why Choose Teeth Bleaching at Dental21? Teeth bleaching at Dental21 can help remove stains caused by coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking. Our treatments are fast, safe, and long-lasting. The in-office treatment takes about 90 minutes and delivers immediate results, while the at-home bleaching option provides a gradual whitening process using custom-made trays for your convenience. With our advanced Fläsh system, you can rest assured you're getting top-tier care. For more details about our treatments, visit the Dental21 Bleaching Page. Before Your Teeth Bleaching Preparation is essential to get the best results from your teeth bleaching. Follow these important steps: Professional Teeth Cleaning Required: For the bleaching gel to work effectively, Dental21 recommends that you have a professional teeth cleaning no more than 4 weeks before the bleaching. This ensures that plaque and tartar are removed, allowing the bleaching agent to penetrate evenly. Avoid Staining Foods: In the days leading up to your bleaching treatment, try to avoid foods and drinks that can cause stains such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries. This will help maximize the results of your treatment. Consult Your Dentist About Sensitivity: If you have sensitive teeth or gums, talk to your dentist before the treatment. They may recommend desensitizing products to minimize discomfort during and after bleaching. Plan Your Diet: After your treatment, you'll need to follow a "white diet" for at least 48 hours. Prepare soft, light-colored foods in advance, such as yogurt, bananas, rice, and chicken, to avoid issues post-treatment. Before and After Teeth Bleaching Results Teeth bleaching at Dental21 offers significant "before and after" differences, with your teeth becoming visibly brighter. Whether you're battling stubborn stains or just want a whiter smile, the results are noticeable and long-lasting. Disclaimer: This image illustrates potential results. Individual outcomes will vary based on the condition of your teeth, and results cannot be guaranteed to match the example shown. After Your Teeth Bleaching Post-treatment care is critical for maintaining the results of your professional bleaching at Dental21. Here’s what you should do: Wait Before Eating: After your bleaching session, it's advised to wait at least 30 minutes to an hour before consuming any food or drinks. This gives the bleaching agent time to bond with your enamel and deliver maximum results. What to Eat After Bleaching: Stick to a white diet for at least 48 hours. Foods that are safe include: Yogurt Chicken Rice Eggs Bananas Avoid acidic or dark-colored foods like tomato sauce, spinach, and berries. How Long Should You Avoid Coffee After Bleaching?: Coffee is a notorious staining agent, so it's best to avoid it for at least 48 hours after your treatment. For even better results, wait longer before reintroducing it into your diet, or opt for alternatives like herbal tea. Avoid Smoking After Bleaching: Smoking can quickly undo the results of your treatment by reintroducing stains. For optimal results, avoid smoking for at least 48 hours post-treatment, and consider reducing or quitting smoking long-term for better dental health. No Dark Foods or Drinks: In addition to coffee, it's essential to avoid chocolate, red wine, and dark sauces like soy sauce or balsamic vinegar. These foods and drinks can stain your freshly whitened teeth, especially in the first two days. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and use a soft-bristle toothbrush to avoid irritation. Daily flossing is also crucial to keep your teeth healthy and free of plaque buildup. Watch for Sensitivity: Some people experience sensitivity after teeth bleaching, especially if tartar was removed beforehand. This is normal and should subside within a few days. Use a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth if needed, and avoid very hot or cold foods until the sensitivity lessens. Common Questions About Teeth Bleaching How long should I follow the white diet after bleaching? It is recommended to follow the "white diet" for at least 48 hours after bleaching. This helps prevent new stains from forming while your teeth are still vulnerable. How long should I wait before eating after bleaching? You should wait at least 30 minutes to an hour before eating or drinking anything after your bleaching session. How long should I avoid coffee after bleaching? It’s best to avoid coffee for at least 48 hours after the bleaching treatment to prevent re-staining. How long should I avoid chocolate after bleaching? Chocolate, like coffee, can easily stain your teeth. Avoid it for at least 48 hours post-treatment. What foods and drinks should I avoid after bleaching? Avoid dark-colored foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, tomato sauce, and soy sauce for at least 48 hours. Smoking and alcohol should also be avoided, as they can negatively affect your results. How harmful is teeth bleaching for your teeth? When performed by professionals like those at Dental21, teeth bleaching is safe. We use the Fläsh system, which protects your teeth during the process while delivering excellent results. However, overusing bleaching treatments or relying on at-home kits can damage your enamel. Does teeth bleaching have any side effects? Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity or gum irritation after the treatment, but these effects typically subside within a few days. How long do teeth bleaching results last? The results of professional teeth bleaching can last between 6 months to 2 years, depending on your lifestyle and oral hygiene habits. Avoiding staining foods, drinks, and smoking will help maintain the results longer. Ready for a Brighter Smile? At Dental21, we use the Fläsh system to deliver safe and long-lasting teeth bleaching results. Whether you choose in-office or at-home bleaching, you can count on us for professional care and a brighter, whiter smile. For more information and to schedule your treatment, visit our Dental21 Bleaching Treatment Page. Quick access to some of our clinics: Berlin Bonn Bremen Düsseldorf Frankfurt Hamburg München All clinics
  • Black Teeth? How to Effectively Combat Discolorations

    Black Teeth? How to Effectively Combat Discolorations

    The pursuit of a bright, white smile is a strongly held ideal in our society. White teeth are often associated with health, beauty, and success. It can be particularly alarming when one suddenly notices that their teeth have turned black or dark. This phenomenon, known as black tooth or black teeth, can be distressing not only aesthetically but also as an indicator of underlying health issues. In this article, we delve deeper into the topic to explore the causes and prevalence of black discolorations. What are Black Teeth? Black teeth can manifest in various forms: as pinpoint black spots on the teeth, more extensive black areas on a tooth, or even as a completely black tooth. These discolorations are not only a cosmetic concern but can also indicate underlying dental issues. It's crucial to differentiate between external discolorations caused by certain foods, beverages, or smoking and internal damage, for example, caused by cavities or trauma. Causes of Black Teeth The reasons for the appearance of black teeth, spots, or points on a tooth are diverse. External causes include the consumption of highly staining substances like coffee, tea, or red wine. Smoking is also a known factor that can cause black spots or darkening of teeth. Internally, cavities and the death of the tooth nerve can lead to a black appearance. Dental traumas that interrupt blood supply can also result in a darkened tooth. Prevalence and Affected Individuals  Black teeth occur across all age groups but with varying frequency and for different reasons. In children, black spots on teeth are often due to poor oral hygiene, the consumption of sugary foods, and the development of cavities. In adults, additional factors like smoking and the consumption of staining foods play a role. Interestingly, research indicates that nearly 4% of elementary school-aged children show signs of black teeth, highlighting the importance of early prevention and treatment. Diagnosis and Professional Evaluation Diagnosing black teeth starts with a comprehensive dental examination. Dentists employ various methods to identify the cause of discolorations accurately. Visual inspections help differentiate external from internal discolorations. X-rays are particularly useful in detecting internal issues, such as a dead tooth root, which can lead to a long-term darkened tooth. Early and precise diagnosis is crucial for selecting the most effective treatment and preventing further damage. Treatment Options  The treatment for black teeth heavily depends on the underlying cause. External discolorations caused by food, drinks, or smoking can often be removed with professional teeth cleaning. Subsequent bleaching/whitening can restore the original condition. Discolorations due to cavities or a dead tooth root need to be tackled by more extensive dental interventions. These include fillings, root canal treatments, or, in severe cases, extraction of the affected tooth. Innovative methods like internal bleaching can be applied to dead teeth to restore the natural tooth color. Each treatment must be tailored to meet the patient's aesthetic and health needs. Prevention and Care  Preventing black spots on teeth and other discolorations starts with good oral hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential to remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to darkened teeth. A healthy diet that minimizes the consumption of sugary drinks and foods also helps prevent cavities and related discolorations. Additionally, reducing the intake of staining substances like coffee, tea, and tobacco is advisable. Regular professional teeth cleanings can help remove stubborn discolorations and minimize the risk of black teeth. Black Teeth in Children  Black teeth in children can be particularly concerning for both the children and their parents. Similar to adults, the causes can be varied, including poor oral hygiene or cavity development due to sugary foods and drinks. Prevention through regular brushing and dental check-ups is crucial to avoid black teeth in children. Additionally, parents should offer a low-sugar diet and minimize the consumption of color-rich foods to reduce the risk of discolorations. Psychological Aspects The psychological impact of black teeth should not be underestimated. People with visible tooth discolorations may suffer from reduced self-esteem and feel uncomfortable in social situations. The fear of negative judgment by others can lead to social isolation and depression. Therefore, it's important to approach affected individuals empathetically and encourage them to seek professional help to address not only the aesthetic but also the psychological issues. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Can black teeth be completely treated? Yes, in many cases, black teeth can be successfully treated, depending on the cause of the discoloration. Professional teeth cleaning, bleaching, or dental restorations are common methods. Are black discolorations always a sign of cavities? No, black discolorations can be caused by a variety of factors, not limited to cavities. External factors like tobacco use and certain foods can also cause discolorations. How can I prevent black teeth? Good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and a healthy diet are key to preventing tooth discolorations. Minimizing the consumption of sugary and staining substances can also play a significant role in maintaining white teeth. Black tooth - What to do? If a tooth turns black, it's crucial to visit a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist can determine the cause of the discoloration and recommend the appropriate treatment. Possible treatment options may include professional teeth cleaning, root canal treatment, removing decay, placing a filling, or in some cases, tooth whitening (bleaching). Avoid attempting to treat the tooth yourself, as this could worsen the situation. Prompt dental intervention is essential to restore the health and aesthetics of your smile. Conclusion  In summary, black teeth represent a complex issue that poses both aesthetic and health challenges. Through early diagnosis and treatment, preventive measures, and comprehensive oral care, the risk of discolorations can be minimized. It's particularly important to encourage good oral hygiene from a young age and not to overlook the psychological aspects, to promote a healthy self-image. Book your appointment now!
  • Faktencheck von A-Z: Weiße Zähne durch Hausmittel

    Faktencheck von A-Z: Weiße Zähne durch Hausmittel

    Ein strahlend weißes Lächeln sieht nicht nur hübsch aus, sondern öffnet häufig auch Türen von Mensch zu Mensch, beruflich wie privat. Kein Wunder werden viele erfinderisch, um ihre Zähne aufzuhellen – von Apfelessig bis Zitrone ist die Hausmittelapotheke zum Bersten voll mit vermeintlich perfekten Bleichmitteln. Was davon wirklich funktioniert und was Ihnen sogar gefährlich werden kann, lesen Sie hier. Apfelessig: A wie ausprobieren Apfelessig gilt als Allrounder: Es soll die Verdauung fördern, beim Abnehmen helfen und für schöne Haut sorgen. Auch als Bleaching-Methode wird es angepriesen: und zwar verdünnt, da die Essigsäure in Reinform die Zähne angreift. Wer aber alle sieben bis vierzehn Tage einen Teelöffel in ein Glas Wasser gibt und damit ein paar Minuten gurgelt, geht kein gesteigertes Risiko ein. Allerdings ist der Effekt auch überschaubar: Teer- oder Nikotinflecken und anderen Härtefällen kann man mit dieser Methode kaum zu Leibe rücken. Auch durch Wurzelbehandlungen oder Medikamente von innen heraus verfärbte Zähnen werden durch ein bisschen Essigwasser nicht heller. Es handelt sich also im wahrsten Sinne des Wortes um eine bestenfalls kosmetische Maßnahme – mit einem professionell durchgeführten Bleaching lässt es sich nicht vergleichen. Backpulver: B wie bloß nicht Das wohl bekannteste Hausmittel zur Zahnaufhellung ist Backpulver. Es ist preiswert, überall erhältlich und ganz leicht anzuwenden: Einfach die Zahnbürste ins Pulver tauchen und los putzen – tatsächlich verschwinden unschöne Flecken nach einigen Durchläufen von der Zahnoberfläche und das Gebiss wird insgesamt heller. Das liegt am Natriumkarbonat, das in Verbindung mit Wasser wie Schleifmittel funktioniert. Doch Vorsicht: Denn nicht nur Verfärbungen werden nachhaltig hinfort geschmirgelt, sondern auch der Zahnschmelz. Und den brauchen Sie: Zum Schutz vor Hitze, Kälte, Säuren, Bakterienbefall – und natürlich Karies. Kokosöl und Kurkuma: K wie kann man machen Aus der ayurvedischen Tradition stammen sowohl Kurkuma als auch das Ölziehen: Die Kurkumawurzel ist ein enger Verwandter von Ingwer und verfügt über entzündungshemmende Eigenschaften. Sie färbt normalerweise sehr stark. Doch ausgerechnet die Zähne soll das Curcumin weißen helfen, wenn man die rohe Wurzel kräftig und ausgiebig kaut. Das ist natürlich auch Geschmacksache. Menschen, die es ausprobieren wollen, empfehlen Zahnärztinnen und Zahnärzte vorab eine professionelle Zahnreinigung. Außerdem weisen sie darauf hin, dass bei Rissen in den Zähnen oder einem angeschlagenen Zahnschmelz unbedingt von solch einem Experiment abgesehen werden sollte. Recht unproblematisch ist dagegen das Ölziehen: Prinzipiell funktioniert es mit jedem hochwertigen Öl: Einfach einen Teelöffel etwa 15 – 20 Minuten im Mund schwenken und dann ausspucken. Es gibt Menschen, die davon berichten, dass eine regelmäßige Anwendung sich positiv auf ihre Zahnfarbe ausgewirkt hat – der endgültige wissenschaftliche Beweis dafür steht allerdings noch aus. Mit Kokosöl funktioniert es nochmal etwas anders: Man putzt sich einfach die Zähne damit. Es bekämpft Keime und Bakterien im Mundraum, und die enthaltene Laurinsäure kann leichte Verfärbungen aufhellen. Bei starken Flecken stößt jedoch auch diese Methode schnell an ihre Grenzen. Natron: N wie nein, njet und no So mancher Hollywood-Star schwört drauf, Zahn-Profis treibt er aber schnurstracks den Gruselschweiß ins Gesicht: Natron als Bleichmittel. Hier ist das Natriumhydrogencarbonat der Übeltäter – mit demselben Ergebnis wie bereits beim Backpulver: Die Zähne werden zwar kurzfristig wirklich weißer, doch der Schmelz wird zerstört. Außerdem raut das Natron-Schmirgeln die Zahnoberflächen auf – alle möglichen Erreger können sich so noch viel leichter ablagern, was in Konsequenz zu neuen Verfärbungen führt. Zitrone: Z wie Zahnschmelzkiller Die Säure der Zitrone soll Farbstoffe von den Zähnen ablösen – allerdings greift sie eben auch den Schmelz an und raut die Zähne auf. Ans Ende von Ihrem Zahn-Latein muss Sie das aber trotzdem nicht bringen: Denn Ihr professionelles Bleaching ist nur einen Mausklick entfernt. Fazit: Zähne wirklich weiß machen funktioniert am besten beim Profi. Am Ende von Ihrem Zahnlatein? In Dental21 Praxen profitieren Sie von einer Behandlung mit Technologie auf der Höhe der Zeit. Sie finden uns an über 50 Standorten in ganz Deutschland. Jetzt Termin buchen!
  • Removing Tooth Discoloration: Everything You Need to Know

    Removing Tooth Discoloration: Everything You Need to Know

    Colors bring joy – except when they adorn your teeth. Because brown, yellow, black, or green spots can dull any smile, no matter how bright – and usually the self-confidence of the person to whom it belongs. Why tooth discolorations occur in the first place, where you can have tooth discolorations removed, and how you can prevent them from occurring in the first place, are discussed in this article. What is Tooth Discoloration? The color of teeth naturally varies from person to person. It is influenced by dentin and genetic factors: While one person may flash white teeth every time they open their mouth, a cream tone may be completely natural for another. Discolorations are only spoken of when teeth take on a different shade than their natural hue. There can be countless reasons for this: metabolic diseases, medications, poor diet, dark dental fillings, smoking, red wine, tea, and many others. Are Tooth Discolorations Dangerous? Not everything that doesn't look pretty is necessarily a danger to health: In and of themselves, tooth discolorations are not considered dangerous. However, they can be a clear indication of suboptimal lifestyle habits – which in themselves can indeed be problematic: For example, consuming large amounts of red wine or cigarettes. How do Tooth Discolorations Occur? There are different types of tooth discolorations – internal and external. While deposits of all kinds usually lead to external discolorations, internal tooth discolorations have a variety of causes: disturbances in tooth development, medications, accidents, dead or root canal-treated teeth, or even fillings can play a role. These Factors Can Lead to External Tooth Discolorations Excessive Smoking One of the biggest factors for discoloration is cigarettes. Tobacco contains tar. You can regularly see for yourself how dark and sticky it is during road construction – and then imagine that mass diluted on your own teeth. The nicotine it also contains causes a patchy yellow appearance. Red Wine, Coffee, and Tea Coffee for breakfast, red wine with dinner, and tea before bedtime – for many people, these rituals mean sheer quality of life. They earn them a firm place in everyday life. However, these favorite beverages also bring many plant-based tannins, whose color pigments penetrate the enamel and cause dark discolorations. Juices and Fruits  It sounds paradoxical at first, but too much fruit can attack the teeth – whether whole or as juice. This is because its acid content weakens the enamel. Generally, the thinner the enamel, the more likely discolorations are. This is because it covers the dentin – which has a yellowish shimmer. Additionally, the acid contributes to the easier deposition of fruit sugar. Spices Some secret spice tips like curry or saffron can quickly stain yellow. The good news: timely brushing usually helps here. These Factors Can Lead to Internal Tooth Discolorations Medications: Drugs, such as antibiotics, can discolor teeth (e.g., during embryonic development in the womb) both from the outside and from the inside. In adults, it leads to an influence on the oral and intestinal flora with various possible effects. Fillings:  Sometimes even dental fillings are the reason for discolorations: e.g., amalgam, which is still allowed in Germany today but is rarely used. Ceramic fillings, for example, are considered to be discoloration-proof alternatives. Dead Teeth Caries or severe teeth grinding can lead to the death of teeth. Root canal treatments can preserve such a tooth – but there's a chance that it will darken. Enamel Defects Negative influences before and after birth, such as various medications, but also genetic factors, can impair the development of teeth at an early age: for example, enamel defects are especially common in children as a cause of tooth discoloration. Diseases Finally, diseases such as metabolic disorders or congenital bile duct obstruction can lead to tooth discolorations. The latter results in a greenish tint. Frequently, this affects mainly the canines and incisors. How Can Tooth Discolorations Be Removed? To eliminate tooth discolorations, it's best to consult professionals. Even though the supposed miraculous power of home remedies like baking soda or bicarbonate is widely touted on the internet and in amateur magazines: the mentioned substances can actually attack the enamel – and thereby doom the mission to failure. Professional dental cleanings and bleaching, on the other hand, are sensible measures to make stained teeth shine again. Key Points at a Glance Stained teeth are a complex phenomenon with numerous causes. Cigarettes are the arch-enemy of white teeth. Red wine, coffee, and tea should be enjoyed in moderation. Choose wisely with dental fillings: ceramic over amalgam. Regular professional dental cleanings help prevent discolorations from occurring in the first place. For severely discolored teeth, bleaching can be an option. Time For a Professional Dental Cleaning? You can find Dental21 practices at over 50 locations throughout Germany. Benefit from treatment with state-of-the-art technology with us. Book your appointment now!