Blue light teeth whitening is a technology that has been widely used in the field of oral beauty in recent years. It mainly irradiates the tooth surface with high-intensity blue light to activate specially formulated whitening gel, thereby achieving the purpose of removing tooth surface pigments and brightening tooth color. This method is accepted by more and more people because of its simple operation and short effect time. However, blue light teeth whitening is not suitable for all people. Scientifically evaluating the suitable population and the contraindicated population is equally important to ensure the whitening effect and oral health.
1. The basic principle and operation process of blue light whitening
Blue light teeth whitening mainly uses blue light with a wavelength between 480-520 nanometers to accelerate the decomposition of oxidants such as hydrogen peroxide through photocatalytic reactions, releasing free radicals. These free radicals can penetrate into the surface layer of tooth enamel and oxidize the deposited pigment molecules, thereby lightening the color of the teeth.
During the operation, the doctor will first clean and examine the teeth to ensure that there is no caries or gum disease. Then, he will apply a whitening gel containing peroxide and use a blue light device to irradiate the teeth for a certain time (usually 15-30 minutes). The gel will then be removed and the mouth will be rinsed. Some treatments may require multiple irradiations to achieve the desired effect.
2. Analysis of the population suitable for blue light teeth whitening
Blue light whitening is not suitable for all types of tooth discoloration. By analyzing clinical applications and indications, the following suitable groups can be summarized:
1. People with exogenous pigmentation
Tooth pigmentation caused by external factors such as long-term drinking of coffee, tea, red wine or smoking is exogenous coloration. Blue light whitening has a more obvious improvement effect on this type of coloration.
2. People with mild dental fluorosis
Dental fluorosis is a color change caused by excessive intake of fluoride during tooth development. For mild dental fluorosis, blue light whitening can improve the color of teeth to a certain extent and make it more natural.
3. Those with yellow or dull tooth enamel
As we age, tooth enamel becomes thinner and dentin is exposed, making teeth appear yellow. Blue light whitening can effectively brighten the color and restore the bright appearance of teeth.
4. Those who need short-term whitening
For those who need to quickly improve the appearance of their teeth before weddings, interviews, important events, etc., blue light whitening can be used as a short-term brightening method.
3. Contraindications and precautions
Although blue light whitening has a good aesthetic effect, it is not suitable for the following people:
1. Patients with moderate to severe tetracycline-induced tooth decay
Tetracycline odontogenetic drugs are deposited in the dentin layer during tooth development. Even if the surface pigment is removed, the deep discoloration of the teeth is still difficult to improve. Such patients respond poorly to blue light whitening and usually require treatment with porcelain veneers or all-ceramic crowns.
2. People with gum disease or oral ulcers
Blue light whitening is not recommended for patients who are in the active stage of gingivitis, periodontitis or oral ulcers, so as not to irritate the gum tissue, aggravate inflammation or cause discomfort.
3. Pregnant and lactating women
Although there is currently no clear evidence that blue light whitening has adverse effects on the fetus or breast milk, for safety reasons, it is recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women postpone such treatments.
4. People who are allergic to peroxide
Whitening gel contains a certain concentration of hydrogen peroxide, which may cause allergic reactions in some patients, resulting in red and swollen gums, stinging, oral discomfort, etc., so sensitivity tests should be carried out in advance.
5. People with dentin sensitivity
People who already have symptoms of tooth sensitivity may experience increased sensitivity after blue light whitening, which may manifest as pain from hot or cold stimulation. Therefore, they should make careful choices under the guidance of a professional doctor.
4. Factors affecting the effect of blue light whitening
In addition to the screening of indications, the effect of blue light whitening is also affected by multiple factors:
1. Individual tooth structure differences
The thickness and mineralization degree of tooth enamel are related to individual genes, which directly affect the light transmittance and drug penetration effect.
2. Shading time and depth
The longer the pigmentation lasts and the more severe the staining is, the more time and frequency of whitening treatments are required, and the effect is relatively limited.
3. Daily oral habits
Diet and oral care are equally important after completing the whitening treatment. Frequent intake of staining foods, smoking, etc. can easily cause teeth to re-color.
4. Teeth reaction after whitening
Some people may experience temporary sensitivity or discomfort after treatment, which usually subsides within 24-48 hours. Desensitizing toothpaste can be used to assist if necessary.
5. Preoperative evaluation and postoperative care recommendations
In order to improve the safety and satisfaction of blue light whitening, preoperative evaluation and postoperative care cannot be ignored:
A comprehensive oral examination is recommended before surgery to rule out problems such as caries and periodontitis;
Fluoride toothpaste can be used 1 week before surgery to enhance the protective ability of tooth enamel ;
Avoid cold drinks, hot drinks and dyed foods within 24 hours after surgery ;
Maintain good oral hygiene, brush your teeth in the morning and evening, and use dental floss ;
Follow up regularly. If you need to maintain the whitening effect, you can repeat the whitening treatment regularly according to the doctor's advice .
Beauty Encyclopedia Tips:
Blue light teeth whitening is a relatively safe and reversible whitening method. It has a good effect on most tooth discoloration caused by exogenous pigment deposition. However, not everyone is suitable for this technology. Before receiving treatment, a comprehensive assessment should be conducted by a professional dentist. Understanding your own dental condition, understanding the adaptability and contraindications, and cooperating with correct care habits are the key to ensuring whitening effects and oral health. Choosing a regular medical institution and following professional procedures are the basic prerequisites for carrying out oral cosmetic treatments.