Before and After: Professional Teeth Whitening Transformations

Understanding Professional Teeth Whitening

Over time, teeth can become stained or discolored from food and drinks, smoking, medications, trauma, age, and other factors. Professional whitening performed by a dentist aims to brighten smiles by removing built up stains.

Among cosmetic dental procedures, teeth whitening is a popular option because it's non-invasive and provides dramatic yet natural looking results when properly done. Let's explore how the teeth transformation process works.

What Causes Teeth Discoloration

Common culprits of tooth staining and yellowing include:

• Coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, and other pigmented foods/drinks
• Tobacco smoking or chewing
• Some medications like tetracycline antibiotics
• Trauma that damages tooth layers or nerves
• Age as enamel naturally thins and dentin shows through more

Professional Whitening Options

Under professional care, patients can have their teeth whitened using:

• In-Office Bleaching - Higher concentrate peroxides applied in-office for quickest results.
• Custom Take-Home Trays - Custom trays provide touch-ups and maintenance after in-office whitening.
• OTC Whitening Strips/Gels - Typically lower potency over-the-counter products.

The Tooth Whitening Process Step-by-Step

Below is an overview of the typical professional whitening workflow and process:

1. Cleaning - A thorough teeth cleaning precedes whitening to remove plaque buildup.
2. Shade Analysis - Teeth shades are matched to a universal shade guide before and after.
3. Protect Gums - A barrier gel or rubber dam shields the gums during whitening.
4. Whitening Application - The high concentrate peroxide gel is applied as instructed by the dentist.
5. Timed Exposure - Gels sit on teeth anywhere from 15-90 minutes depending on type and concentration.
6. Rinse and Dry - Gels are properly rinsed away and teeth dried after timed treatment.
7. Repeat and Touch Up - Additional applications may further brighten teeth back to natural white.

Before and After Whitening Results

So just how many shades brighter can teeth become post-whitening? While results vary per person, most patients experience anywhere from:

• 2-8 Shades Lightener from Start
• Can reach up to 12+ Shades Improvement

For example, if you start at a C4 shade (dark yellow) you may achieve up to an A1 shade (light natural white) after professional whitening.

Before and After Patient Photos

They say a photo speaks 1000 words! Below are dramatic yet typical before and after pics of professional whitening treatments so you can see the visual transformation:

[INSERT BEFORE AND AFTER IMAGE COMPARISONS SHOWING TEETH WHITENING RESULTS]

As you can see from the images, in just one in-office visit plus a short course of custom take-home trays, smiles can be lightened dramatically and safely without other alterations.

Maintaining Post-Whitening Results

While professional whitening can provide long lasting color improvements, there are a few tips to maintain your brightened smile:

• Avoid stain-causing foods, drinks, and smoking
• Practice excellent oral hygiene and have regular dental cleanings
• Use custom whitening trays periodically for touch-ups
• Repeat professional whitening annually as needed

Professional Whitening Considerations

While low risk, here are a some aspects to consider regarding professional teeth whitening:

Sensitivity

Common side effects include temporary temperature sensitivity for 24-48 hrs after treatment as well as mild gum irritation from the whitening gels.

Gum and Tooth Health

Patients should have healthy teeth and gums before undergoing whitening, as issues like gum disease can cause increased sensitivity and poorer results.

Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women

Whitening is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women due to potential mercury release from old fillings and absorption risks.

Unrealistic Expectations

Professional whitening can lighten smiles dramatically but cannot make teeth impossibly white. Set realistic goals with your dentist based on your starting shade.

Be sure to follow professional instructions to maximize your whitening results while staying safe.

Costs and Insurance Coverage

Without insurance, you can expect to pay approximately:

• $400 - $650 per In-Office Whitening Session
• $300 - $500 for Custom Take-Home Whitening Trays

Most dental insurance excludes teeth whitening since it's considered cosmetic. However, flexible savings accounts can be used. Payment plans may also assist with costs.

Should You Get Professional Whitening?

If you struggle with yellow, dull or stained teeth, professional whitening delivers dramatic aesthetic improvements safely and effectively. Be sure to partner with an experienced dentist to ensure the best results.

And remember - a bright white smile conveys health, happiness and confidence!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.