Teeth Whitening - Myths and Reality

31 May 2025

That's why Teeth whitening is becoming an increasingly popular and demanded procedure day by day. However, there is a lot of misleading information around this topic, which often confuses people when making decisions.

In this article, we will examine in detail the most common mistakes and stereotypes related to teeth whitening. We will also tell you whether this procedure is worth it, what types of methods exist and which is the most effective, including how to achieve a bright and healthy smile both at home and in a professional clinic. Our goal is to provide you with complete and reliable information that will help you choose a safe, effective, and reasonable path to a white smile.

Myth #1: Teeth whitening damages the enamel

Reality: Professional whitening procedures performed under the supervision of a qualified dentist do not damage tooth enamel. Modern whitening systems contain special components that protect the tooth surface and maintain its health. However, it is important that the procedure is performed only under professional supervision, as incorrect use can cause tooth sensitivity.

Myth #2: Whitening results are permanent

Reality: The effect of teeth whitening is not permanent. The duration of results depends on your lifestyle, eating habits, and oral hygiene. On average, the effect of professional whitening can be maintained for up to 1 year. To prolong the results, it is recommended to:

• Limit food and drinks containing pigments
• Avoid tobacco use
• Regularly undergo professional cleaning every 6 months

Myth #3: Home teeth whitening gives the same effect

Reality: Whitening at home is possible, but it takes longer to achieve results. While professional whitening in a clinic gives the desired result in one visit, at home it takes an average of 2 weeks.

Myth #4: Teeth whitening procedure is effective for any type of pigmentation

Reality: Professional whitening procedures are effective only for natural tooth pigmentation. However, there are types of pigmentation and dental constructions that do not respond to whitening procedures:

• Dental ceramic constructions (crowns, veneers)
• Teeth restored with composite restorative materials
• Medicinal pigmentation (e.g., caused by tetracycline)
• Changes caused by fluorosis

Myth #5: Teeth whitening procedure is very painful

Reality: Modern whitening systems are designed with patient comfort in mind. While some patients may develop temporary sensitivity, it is not permanent and will pass in a few days. A professional dentist evaluates the condition of your teeth in advance and selects an appropriate whitening method.

Myth #6: Teeth whitening is recommended for everyone

Reality: Teeth whitening is not recommended for:

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women
• Persons under 16 years of age
• Patients with active forms of caries
• People with acute gum inflammation
• Cases of severe tooth sensitivity

Causes of Tooth Color Changes

Tooth color change is a natural process that develops over the years. This can be caused by both external and internal factors. In everyday life, our teeth are constantly in contact with various foods and drinks that contain pigments. Coffee, tea, red wine, and Coca-Cola are just a few of the products that leave marks on teeth over time. Tobacco use is one of the main causes of teeth "yellowing." Nicotine and tar penetrate the pores of the tooth and cause dark spots that are difficult to remove with regular cleaning. Regular smokers' teeth often become yellow or brown, which significantly impairs the aesthetics of the smile. As we age, tooth enamel naturally wears and thins, causing the inner, darker layer of the tooth - dentin - to become more visible. This gives teeth a more yellowish or grayish tint. Genetic factors also play an important role in determining tooth color. Some people naturally have whiter teeth, while others have more yellowish or grayish ones. Also, fluorosis - a condition that develops in childhood as a result of excessive fluoride intake - causes white or dark spots on teeth.

Teeth Whitening Methods

There are many methods or procedures for teeth whitening that differ in results, price, and duration. The most common are home and professional whitening methods. Among home whitening products, special toothpastes containing mild abrasive particles or chemicals to remove surface stains are particularly popular. Whitening brushes, strips, and trays that allow the whitening agent to act on the tooth surface for longer are also common. Whitening strips are a simple and convenient tool. They are covered with hydrogen peroxide gel and are used daily for 30 minutes. Results appear after a few days but are less noticeable compared to professional whitening.

The cost of teeth whitening varies significantly depending on the method. Home whitening products are usually cheaper and can start from a few tens of GEL. The price of professional whitening is higher, but the result is much more impressive and long-lasting.

Professional Whitening at a Dental Clinic

Professional teeth whitening at a dentist's clinic is the most effective method. It uses high-concentration whitening agents and special equipment such as laser or ultraviolet light, which accelerates the process. During professional whitening, the dentist first cleans the teeth, then protects the gums with a special coating, and only then applies the whitening solution. This solution is activated by a special light, which accelerates the whitening process. The entire procedure lasts an average of 1-1.5 hours, and it is possible to whiten teeth by several tones during one session.

How much does teeth whitening cost in a clinic? The price of professional whitening depends on the method used, the clinic, and the number of sessions required. On average, this procedure in Georgia starts from 300 GEL. However, it is important to consider that this is an investment that gives us confidence and makes a better impression on those around us. Therefore, it is better to carefully choose both the clinic and the whitening procedure.

After whitening, it is important to follow several recommendations: Avoid pigmented food and drinks for the first 48 hours, do not use tobacco, and regularly visit the dentist for consultation. It is also recommended to use a special toothpaste for sensitive teeth, as some patients may temporarily develop increased sensitivity after whitening.

At "Blits Dental - Kakhaber Kharebava Clinic," experienced specialists offer safe and effective teeth whitening methods. We use the German brand White Smile's Flash System for office whitening, which is painless for the patient and allows us to whiten teeth by 5-7 shades in one visit.

The advantages of the Flash device are:

• Unique positioning of the Flash light, which allows for easy placement
• Controlled treatment - the device is controlled only by the flash card, which activates only White Smile gel
• Simple blocking system
• Individual tooth whitening program
• Special parameters for sensitive teeth
• Optimal placement of the light source in relation to the patient
• Quick results
• Safety
• Gum and tooth tissue sensitivity is controlled through the use of a desensitizer

For at-home whitening using the individual tray method, impressions are taken of both jaws (or one), after which individual trays are prepared in the laboratory. These, along with a special whitening gel, are given to the patient, who should use them according to a specific regimen. This whitening method takes more time compared to office whitening, as we get certain results after 3-4 days, and the whole course covers 21 days. During the consultation, our doctor will assess the condition of your teeth,  give you detailed recommendations, and offer you the most suitable whitening method. Our goal is for you to achieve a confident, natural, and attractive smile.