Teeth whitening is a surgical and cosmetic dental procedure that uses various materials and techniques to achieve goals such as removing stains, removing discoloration, and increasing the whiteness of teeth. This method allows people to have a beautiful and attractive smile. With advanced materials and techniques, teeth whitening can be done easily and without side effects today. However, these procedures should still be performed under the supervision of a specialist and with strict adherence to instructions to achieve optimal results.
Causes of yellowing teeth
Changes in the color and strength of teeth occur over time and under the influence of various factors.
Some factors that may accelerate and intensify changes in tooth color include:
Failure to properly clean teeth:
Failure to brush teeth regularly and properly causes the accumulation of dental plaque, which can lead to tooth discoloration and the formation of tooth stains.
Consumption of inappropriate and colored foods:
Excessive consumption of substances such as tea, coffee, soda, industrial and ready-made syrups with artificial colors can lead to color changes in the teeth.
Tobacco use:
Cigarettes and hookahs introduce harmful chemicals into the teeth and gums and can cause discoloration and reduce the strength of the teeth.
The presence of destructive compounds in mouthwashes:
Some mouthwashes may contain compounds such as chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride, which can lead to tooth discoloration.
To maintain the health of your teeth and reduce their color and strength changes, it is important to pay attention to regular and proper oral hygiene and use appropriate mouthwashes. Also, visiting a dentist for periodic services and consultations can also help maintain the health of your teeth.
Types of Tooth Discoloration
It is true that tooth discoloration can cause various problems and is important in terms of appearance, but the most important point is that the type of discoloration and its cause determine the treatment method. Different discolorations may include yellowing, white or brown spots, darkening or even changing the shape of the teeth. To treat these problems, the main cause of the discoloration must first be identified.
For example, yellowing of teeth may be caused by various causes such as consuming problematic foods and drinks, smoking, genetic factors or environmental factors such as tracheostomy. Depending on the cause, there are different methods to treat it. This may include home methods such as using whitening toothpaste, professional methods such as teeth bleaching or tooth decay.
Therefore, tooth discoloration requires an accurate diagnosis of its cause and the selection of the most appropriate treatment method. Also, it is necessary to follow the recommendations of your dentist and continue with your dental hygiene program.
Treatments for Tooth Discoloration
Extrinsic Discoloration:
In this type of discoloration, changes occur on the outer surface of the tooth, usually accompanied by a yellow or dull appearance of the tooth. This discoloration occurs only on the surface of the tooth and does not damage the tooth tissue. Bleaching methods, which are usually performed in dental clinics, are suitable for correcting extrinsic discoloration. Home remedies are also useful for this type of discoloration.
Internal Discoloration:
This type of tooth discoloration is different from extrinsic discoloration and mainly affects the dentin and its inner layer. This discoloration is sometimes accompanied by enamel wear and may cause serious problems for the tooth. Methods such as veneers, laminates, lumineers, and bonding are used to correct internal discoloration. External discoloration methods are not usually used for this type of problem.
Age-related discoloration:
As we age, the surface quality of teeth in various areas decreases, which can lead to tooth discoloration. This type of discoloration is a combination of the previous two categories and is characterized by the formation of yellow and dull spots on the teeth. Methods such as veneers and bonding are used to treat age-related discoloration. In general, correction of tooth discoloration depends on the type and extent of discoloration, the health of the teeth, and the individual's medical history and should be determined and implemented by a dentist.
What should you consider before getting your teeth whitened?
It is best to consider the following before starting your teeth whitening process:
Age:
You must be at least 18 years old or older to undergo teeth whitening procedures. This is because teeth develop fully at an older age.
Condition of teeth and gums:
Your teeth and gums must be in healthy condition to undergo teeth whitening procedures. Before starting treatment, your dentist will evaluate you to check the condition of your teeth and gums. If you have any oral diseases such as cavities or infections, these problems should be treated first.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is best to postpone whitening your teeth. The problem is that whitening products may affect the fetus or pass into breast milk. Therefore, in these cases, it is better to consult your doctor and wait until the pregnancy or breastfeeding period is over.
By following these tips, you can get the best results from your teeth whitening methods and consider the health of your teeth and all aspects of your health.
Types of Teeth Whitening Methods
In today's society, appearance has become an important principle and people usually look for ways to improve their appearance. One of the common problems that people may encounter is the discoloration of teeth in a yellow and dull form. This discoloration usually occurs with age, consumption of various foods and drinks, and its extent may vary depending on the type of tooth and individual factors. Fortunately, there are various methods to treat this problem, including quick methods under the supervision of a dentist and home methods over a long period of time.
In the following, in addition to examining the cause of yellowing and discoloration of teeth, we will explain the different types of teeth whitening methods. These methods may include dental treatments such as bleaching and veneers, as well as at-home methods such as using teeth whitening kits. The goal of these methods is to improve the color of teeth and create a beautiful, attractive smile.
Teeth whitening methods are divided into two categories: specialized and general.
Below we explain the classification and how these specialized methods work:
Teeth whitening with bleaching method:
Bleaching is one of the most widely used methods of teeth whitening. In this method, the dentist uses a gel containing peroxide to whiten the surface of the teeth.
The bleaching gel may be activated using laser beams, which increases the speed and efficiency of this method.
This process is usually done in several steps and most clients are able to do it in one session.
The advantages of bleaching include high speed, desirable whiteness, and the ability to maintain the health of the teeth.
Teeth whitening with veneer laminate method:
The veneer laminate method involves the use of thin ceramic layers on the surface of the teeth. These layers are bonded to the teeth and cover defects such as discoloration, dullness, cracks, etc.
This method makes the teeth look beautiful and hides existing defects, but it does not completely eliminate yellowing of the teeth.
This method is especially suitable for changing the internal color of the teeth and is usually performed in the dentist's office.
Teeth whitening with dental bonding:
The dental bonding method is similar to the veneer laminate method, except that instead of ceramic layers, a composite resin with a color similar to the tooth is used. This composite resin is bonded to the teeth and covers the color changes and defects of the teeth.
This method is suitable for changing the color of the internal and external areas of the teeth, as well as discoloration due to aging.
One of the advantages of this method is its relatively lower cost compared to other methods. It may also have other advantages if it is performed in one step.
However, the disadvantages of this method include its relatively shorter lifespan, greater vulnerability compared to other methods, and faster discoloration of the teeth.
Teeth Whitening Using Dental Veneers:
In the dental veneer method, tooth-colored ceramic veneers are used to cover the teeth. These veneers are bonded to the surface of the teeth and cover things like cracks, discoloration, and chipping.
Dental veneers are a type of tooth covering method and are usually used for restorations after root canals or teeth that need to be covered due to internal discoloration.
This method requires special care and maintenance of ceramic veneers, and you should avoid eating hard foods and fruits.
There are various methods available for teeth whitening, and choosing the right method depends on the condition of your teeth and your personal needs. Also, after each procedure, it is very important to follow aftercare to maintain the whiteness of your teeth.
Scaling and Polishing
One of the most important and vital points in caring for your teeth and maintaining oral health is preventing and managing tartar. Tartar not only makes your teeth look dirty and discolored, but it also has negative health effects.
Tartar initially looks like a soft white substance that accumulates in areas near the gums and is called dental plaque. If proper oral hygiene is not followed, this plaque hardens and turns into tartar, which may cause gum recession over time and, in more severe cases, lead to loose teeth and tooth loss.
In the simplest case, you can achieve acceptable results by scaling and polishing your teeth, but this method is not very effective in removing tooth discoloration because the cause of tooth discoloration may be nothing other than tartar. Therefore, regular scaling and dental care are essential.
It is recommended to have a dental cleaning done every six months to maintain dental health. In addition, it is also very important to maintain daily oral hygiene, including brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing, and regularly using special dental anti-tartar products.
What is the difference between bleaching and scaling?
Bleaching and scaling are two different methods of improving and beautifying teeth and have different purposes.
Dental scaling, or ultrasonic scaling, aims to improve the health of the mouth and teeth. This method helps to remove dental deposits, plaque, bacteria and germs. By performing scaling, all plaque that has accumulated between the teeth and under the gums is removed. This procedure improves the overall health of the teeth and mouth and may also help to whiten the teeth.
Bleaching, as a cosmetic procedure, is usually used to remove stains, pigments and color changes on the teeth. This method is usually performed to improve the appearance of the teeth and does not directly improve the health of the mouth and teeth. Bleaching is mainly suitable for people who want to whiten their teeth and have a beautiful appearance.
Therefore, scaling aims to improve the health of the mouth and teeth, while bleaching is more about improving the appearance and color of the teeth.
Teeth Whitening After Orthodontics
In this regard, special attention should be paid to the recommendations of the orthodontist for patients undergoing orthodontics. These points refer to the delay in performing tooth whitening after orthodontics, and it is also important to consider factors such as trauma, heredity, and developmental disorders. Delaying teeth whitening may help the teeth to fully heal after orthodontics and achieve better results from this procedure.
Teeth Whitening Risk Assessment
Teeth whitening procedures are generally not dangerous and should be performed under the supervision of a qualified dentist using approved materials. Many people experience these procedures without any problems under the supervision of their doctors. The following are some possible risks of these procedures:
Tooth sensitivity:
Some people may experience some sensitivity in their teeth after teeth whitening. This is usually temporary and can be reduced with the use of toothpaste.
Effect on tooth surface composition:
Repeated use of whitening procedures may lead to changes in the surface of the teeth, for example, the destruction of tooth enamel. These changes are usually more visible on teeth that have already had problems.
Incorrect use:
Incorrect use of whitening products can lead to possible risks. For example, excessive use of bleaching products without the guidance of a doctor can lead to the destruction of teeth and gum tissue.
Not having a permanent effect:
The effects of teeth whitening may last for a limited time and require repeating the procedure. After a while, the teeth may return to their original color.
Therefore, if you are interested in whitening your teeth, the best way to do this is under the supervision of your dentist and by following all their instructions and recommendations. They can guide you in choosing the right method and the necessary care after teeth whitening.
Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ disorder for short, is a complex issue in the field of oral and dental health that is likely to occur in people with various disorders of the jaw joint and its related muscles. This disorder can lead to problems such as pain in the neck, face, and ears, and cause complications such as difficulty chewing and swallowing food, coughing, headaches, and even pain in the teeth.
TMJ disorder occurs in different people from different walks of life, and due to the variability of various causes and factors, its diagnosis and treatment require accurate recognition and consultation with specialist doctors
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders
This is a ball-and-socket joint that connects the lower jawbone to the temporal bone of the skull. In Persian, it is called the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which can be found on both sides of the head and in front of the ear.
This joint is a complex structure that contains muscles, bones, blood vessels, nerves, and ligaments. This part of the body helps open and close the jaw and plays a key role in operations such as speaking, eating, and even chewing.
Causes of Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome
If the TMJ joint is damaged, the jaw or tissues around the face may be disrupted. In the past, it was thought that TMJ syndrome was caused only by dental problems, jaw misalignment, and misalignment of the upper and lower teeth. However, some diseases can now be introduced as possible factors in the development of this syndrome.
Injuries and factors that may lead to disorders of the jaw and facial muscles include:
Teeth grinding:
Teeth grinding is a habit that many people have. Over time, this can lead to muscle spasms and inflammation. Changes in the natural alignment and height of the teeth or hard and cunning chewing can also cause disruption of the temporomandibular joint.
Pressure:
If the temporomandibular joint is constantly subjected to various pressures and blows, this can lead to severe pain. Tension in the jaw that causes it to clench can damage the TMJ joint.
Arthritis:
Arthritis is a disease that usually occurs due to wear and tear or deterioration of the joint. In this type of disease, cartilage is destroyed and new bone is formed. Factors such as aging, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory diseases increase the likelihood of developing arthritis in the TMJ joint.
Rheumatoid arthritis:
This disease leads to disorders in the TMJ joint by inflammation of the joints. If rheumatoid arthritis is not diagnosed in time, it can cause temporomandibular joint syndrome by eroding the bone and cartilage of the joint.
Checking for Temporomandibular Joint Disease and TMJ Disorder Symptoms
This disease has many signs and symptoms that overlap with the symptoms of other diseases, making it often difficult to diagnose TMJ disorders. However, a dentist and specialist can diagnose the disease by taking a complete medical and dental history, performing a physical examination, and taking X-rays.
The most common symptoms of temporomandibular joint disease that can occur are as follows:
-Headache (often similar to a migraine)
-Earache with pain behind the eyes
-Clicking or even popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
-Pain when yawning, opening the mouth too wide, or chewing
-Repeated jaw locking, snapping, or dislocating
-Jaw muscle tenderness
-There is a possibility of sudden changes when the upper and lower teeth overlap
These signs and symptoms can help in the correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment of temporomandibular joint disease.
Pain:
One of the most common symptoms of TMJ disorder is jaw pain. This pain is usually felt when moving or opening and closing the mouth. However, it is important to note that other types of pain may also be associated with TMJ disorder. These pains can include headaches, migraines, neck or back pain, ear pain, or pain around the ear. If the pain is not near the jaw, a doctor will often look for other possible causes before diagnosing TMJ disorder.
Noise:
A common but often painless symptom is unusual sounds such as popping, clicking, or even grinding that can be heard when eating, talking, or even opening the mouth. However, noises made when the jaw moves are not always a sign of TMJ disorder. These sounds are very common and may only require medical attention if they are accompanied by pain or limited jaw movement.
Restricted movement:
Restricted movement that prevents the mouth from opening fully or the jaw from moving in certain directions can lead to severe problems in daily life. This may be seen in TMJ disorders and can cause limitations in eating and speaking.
Review of the most common temporomandibular joint diseases
This disease is a common problem of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is usually more common in women than men and can be more common in the third and fourth decades of a person's life. The syndrome can be divided into two main phases, namely primary and secondary.
Primary temporomandibular joint disorder syndrome
In this phase, the patient often complains of localized pain, which is usually unilateral and sometimes bilateral. These patients feel sounds such as "clicking" and "snapping" in the joint and the jaw deviates towards the affected area. Also, there is a tendency for protrusion (protrusion of the jaw) during mouth opening. In this phase, muscle spasm causes problems and if this spasm is relieved, the patient's problems will improve.
Secondary temporomandibular joint disorder syndrome
In this phase, with the passage of time, degenerative changes are observed in the joint and radiological changes show in favor of joint destruction and arthritis of the joint. In this phase, several muscles are involved, including the master, medial and lateral pterygoid, temporalis, sternocleidomastoid, scalenes and rhomboids. However, the most common muscle involved in this phase is the lateral pterygoid muscle.
Current treatments:
Treatment of temporomandibular joint disorder includes various methods. In the initial phase, attention to muscle spasm and their relief by injecting anti-inflammatory substances or physiotherapy can produce improvement. In more advanced stages, more specific treatments such as pons placement to prevent jaw deviation and treatment of joint osteoarthritis are used. Orthodontic therapies and psychological therapies are also important in the management of this disease.
Methods of evaluating TMJ disorder
A thorough medical evaluation for temporomandibular joint disorder is described below.
Physical examination:
The doctor will first take a complete medical history and then perform a physical examination. This examination will include assessing the patient’s joint position (jaw, tongue, and neck position). He or she will palpate the TMJ joint to assess for swelling, muscle spasms, and stiffness or excessive movement. The range and quality of movement of the jaw and neck will also be examined, paying special attention to any deviations.
Panorex X-ray:
A panorex X-ray is used to examine the teeth and jawbone, creating detailed images of these areas.
Computed tomography scan (CT scan):
A CT scan is used to take more detailed, three-dimensional images of the bones of the joint and identify problems in that area.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI):
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used to evaluate possible problems with the joint disc and surrounding soft tissue or muscles. These images are high-quality and do not require X-rays.
Appropriate treatments for TMJ disorder
To treat TMJ syndrome, conservative methods at home, medical treatments, or if necessary, surgery can be used. Usually, a specialist doctor recommends that you start treating the syndrome with home care and, if the disease gradually progresses, undergo temporomandibular joint surgery.
Self-care treatments at home:
-Using an ice pack to reduce pain in the jaw and face.
-Using a warm towel to relieve pain and muscle spasms after stretching exercises.
-Eating soft foods and avoiding chewing hard foods for a long time.
-Using a splint or night guard to improve the position of the teeth and jaw at night.
-Avoiding irritating jaw movements and reducing stress.
Drug treatment:
-Using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
-Using muscle relaxants.
-In cases of need, using antidepressants, local anesthetics, and corticosteroids.
-Medical treatment:
-Physiotherapy.
-Botox therapy.
-Heat or cooling therapy.
-Using a splint.
Temporomandibular joint surgery:
Surgery in severe cases and when the temporomandibular joint is severely damaged and has caused long-term symptoms.
The following strategies are used in surgical procedures to treat temporomandibular joint disorder:
Arthroscopy surgery:
This procedure allows the maxillofacial surgeon to enter the joint through small incisions in your skin.
Using a camera, the surgeon examines your joint and detects problems such as cartilage tears and damage to the joint surface.
The surgeon may be able to fix some problems with arthroscopic surgery.
Arthrocentesis:
This procedure involves inserting small needles into the joint spaces and flushing out the joint to remove fluid and waste products.
It is usually used to remove inflammatory and destructive factors in the joint.
Open surgery (joint replacement):
This procedure involves an incision in the joint and is most often used for patients with severe temporomandibular joint dysfunction.
Severe cases of dysfunction include excessive tissue or bone growth that prevents the joint from moving or functioning properly, fusion of joint tissue, or the inability of the doctor to reach the joint using arthroscopy.
In cases where there is severe disc damage or severe bone changes, open surgery is performed to replace the temporomandibular joint.
Referral to Physiotherapy
In cases where patients are faced with temporomandibular joint disorder, they often first visit the dentist and consider dental problems as the main cause of their problems. At this stage, the dentist may prescribe a mouth guard or mouth guard for the patient. This mouth guard is worn at night to prevent prolonged chewing and clenching of the teeth.
With this mouth guard, the temporomandibular joints can rest and heal while the patient sleeps. If the problem persists or increases in severity, the dentist may refer the patient to physiotherapy to treat temporomandibular joint problems with rehabilitation methods.
Appropriate exercises to increase range of motion
Special exercises and exercises can help improve temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). These exercises strengthen the jaw muscles, stretch the jaw muscles, relax the jaw, increase jaw mobility, reduce jaw noise, and improve the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorder.
Some of the effective exercises in improving temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) are:
Jaw relaxation exercise:
Slowly open and close your mouth by placing your tongue on the roof of your mouth and behind your front teeth.
Fish movement (partial jaw opening):
With your tongue on the roof of your mouth, place a finger of one hand on the temporomandibular joint and open your mouth halfway and then close it. Then place the other finger on the opposite joint and repeat the exercise.
Fish movement (complete jaw opening):
With your tongue on the roof of your mouth, place a finger on the temporomandibular joint and open your mouth fully and then close it. Then repeat this exercise on the opposite joint.
Chin tuck:
Retract your shoulders back and lift your chest. Lower your head straight down so that your chin touches your neck and your double chin is visible. Do this several times.
Resisting opening your mouth:
Place your chin on your hand and slowly open your mouth. Resist by applying slight pressure to your chin and holding your mouth open for a few seconds. Then slowly close your mouth.
These exercises can help improve your TMJ.
Laser Therapy for Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)
Laser therapy is a non-invasive and effective treatment for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and pain relief in the jaw, neck, and headache areas. This treatment is used to manage pain associated with TMJ disorders and reduce joint swelling.
In laser therapy, two types of light energy are used for therapeutic intervention. One is used to reduce pain and the other is used to reduce inflammation. This light energy acts as a source of energy for the body’s cells and stimulates them. It produces endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers) to help speed up the healing process and helps resolve TMJ problems by reducing the body’s natural inflammation.
Laser therapy increases blood flow to the treated areas, which speeds up the healing process. This treatment can help reduce TMJ-related pain and joint swelling, providing lasting, long-term results for the individual.
Age of Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) disorder can occur regardless of age, and people from the age of 5 to the age of 90 may experience this problem. According to statistics, women are more likely to suffer from this disease than men. Also, this problem seems to be more common in people between the ages of 20 and 40.
Conclusion
Finally, it can be said that TMJ disorder is a complex problem that affects different people. It is important to recognize the symptoms and various factors of this disorder and consult with specialist doctors. Proper treatment and careful follow-up can help relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life of people.
As a final word, gaining information and awareness about TMJ disorder can help people cope better with this problem and take appropriate ways to manage it.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.What is TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorder?
TMJ refers to the jaw joint that is located near the ear and interacts with the upper jaw (maxilla). TMJ disorders can lead to disorders of the jaw joint and the muscles involved.
2.What are the symptoms of TMJ disorders?
Symptoms of TMJ disorders include pain in the neck, face, and ears, difficulty chewing and gripping food, coughing, headaches, and even toothaches.
3.What causes TMJ disorders?
Several factors can cause TMJ disorders, including excessive pressure or tension in the jaw joint, secretion of sex hormones in women, secretion of steroid hormones, disproportionate jaw shape and size, and unusual oral activities.
4.How is TMJ disorder diagnosed?
Diagnosing TMJ disorders requires a consultation with a specialist. This diagnosis is usually made using a medical history, a dental and jaw examination, and may include x-rays.
5.Is TMJ disorder preventable?
In some cases, TMJ disorder is preventable. For example, stress reduction techniques, proper jaw and teeth positioning, and proper oral care can help prevent this disorder.
6.Is TMJ disorder permanent or treatable?
TMJ disorder is usually treatable, and with appropriate treatments and changes in daily habits, symptoms can be reduced and quality of life can be improved. However, in severe cases, surgical approaches may be needed.
7.Does TMJ disorder have serious consequences?
TMJ disorder usually does not lead to serious consequences, but it can lead to unpleasant and bothersome symptoms for people. For this reason, proper treatment and management of this disorder is important.
