Achieving a Brighter Smile Through Professional Teeth Whitening
Many people desire a bright, white smile but don't know where to start when it comes to teeth whitening. Consulting with dentists nearby who offer professional whitening treatments is an excellent option for dramatically improving the color of your teeth safely and effectively.
Understanding Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a process that lightens the color of your teeth. Some common causes of tooth discoloration that whitening can address include:
- Food and drink stains from coffee, tea, wine, etc.
- Smoking stains
- Medications that cause stains
- Genetics
- Aging
- Trauma and tooth injuries
Professional whitening procedures are the fastest, most effective way to whiten teeth and enhance your smile. Dentists use specialized tools and whitening agents that safely brighten both natural teeth and restorations like fillings, crowns and veneers.
Professional In-Office Whitening
In-office whitening done at your dentist is a quick, convenient teeth whitening option that produces dramatic results in about an hour. It involves using a specialized light or laser in conjunction with a high-concentration whitening gel.
Your dentist will first examine your teeth to ensure you are a good candidate for whitening. They will then protect your gums and lips before applying the whitening agent to your teeth. As you sit in the dental chair, the light or laser accelerates the whitening process. You'll see several shades of lightening in one visit.
In-office whitening yields the fastest results, with minimal sensitivity. It costs more per session than at-home kits, but the dramatic color change may be worth the investment if you have a special event coming up.
Dentist-Supervised Take-Home Kits
Many dentists offer professional take-home whitening kits with custom-fitted trays and prescription-strength whitening gel. The dentist makes molds of your teeth and creates customized, thin plastic trays. You'll apply the special gel to these trays and wear them for a set period of time each day at home.
Though not as fast as in-office treatments, dentist take-home kits produce great results over the course of treatment. Because they use strong whitening gel, they're faster than over-the-counter products. With regular use, you may see whitening results in as little as a few days.
Dentist take-home trays allow you to whiten at your convenience. This option is more affordable than in-office visits. The trays also allow you to touch up your whitening periodically after treatment.
Whitening Toothpastes
Some dentists recommend special whitening toothpastes and mouth rinses to boost the effects of other whitening treatments. These maintain brightness between professional treatments.
Whitening toothpastes contain polishing or chemical agents to help remove surface stains. While they don't contain bleaches, they can mildly reduce yellowing over time with consistent use.
Choosing a Dentist for Whitening Treatments
Consult experienced, trustworthy dentists in your area for the safest, most effective whitening results. Here's how to choose the right dentist for you:
Verify Credentials
Confirm your dentist is licensed in your state. Make sure they have formal training in tooth whitening procedures.
Read Reviews
Search for patient reviews to evaluate the dentist's skills, bedside manner, staff professionalism and overall whitening results.
Ask About Methods
Discuss which whitening options the dentist offers. Inquire about their process, protocols and safety precautions.
Review Before and Afters
Ask to see before and after photos of real patients who got whitening treatments with that dentist.
Get a Consultation
Meet with the dentist for an exam and consultation before committing to care. Discuss your goals, needs and any concerns.
Consider Convenience
Choose a local dentist close enough for easy appointments during treatment. Find one with office hours that fit your schedule.
Check Your Insurance
See what whitening treatments your dental insurance covers to minimize your costs.
Preparing for a Whitening Appointment
These tips will help you get ready for a smooth, successful dentist visit for whitening:
Brush and Floss
Be sure to maintain excellent oral hygiene in the days before your appointment. Brush at least twice daily and floss thoroughly.
Avoid Stain Causes
Stop smoking and cut back on staining foods, drinks and medications if possible several days before your visit.
Wear Comfortable Clothes
Wear loose, comfortable clothing without restrictive collars to your appointment.
Arrive Early
Leave extra time to complete any check-in paperwork before your visit begins.
Tell the Dentist About Sensitivities
Inform staff ahead of time if you have sensitivities to light, latex, gel ingredients or dental work.
Follow Pre-Appointment Instructions
If your dentist provided any special instructions, be sure to follow them before you arrive.
Arrange Transportation
You may have dilated pupils after whitening treatments, so plan to take a cab or rideshare home.
Use the Bathroom
Use the restroom before your procedure so you can sit comfortably without long breaks.
What to Expect During Whitening
Knowing what to expect can help ease any nerves about your upcoming dental appointment. Here are typical steps for professional whitening treatments:
Oral Exam
The dentist will examine your teeth, gums and mouth to ensure whitening is appropriate for you.
Protect Lips and Gums
Your dentist will cover sensitive lip and gum tissue with plastic guards or gel.
Whitening Gel Application
The dentist will apply the professional-grade whitening gel to your teeth.
Light or Laser Treatment
A specialized light or laser will enhance and accelerate the whitening gel.
Time Under Light
You'll relax with the gel on your teeth anywhere from 15-60 minutes.
Rinsing
Once done, you'll rinse repeatedly to remove all gel from your mouth.
Results
Immediately after treatment, you should see a noticeable difference in your tooth color.
Follow-Up & Touch-Ups
Schedule a follow up visit if you want to evaluate results or need touch-up treatments.
Recovery After Professional Whitening
Following these tips will ensure you heal quickly after your dentist visit:
Rest
Take it easy after your appointment and avoid strenuous activity that day.
Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
Don't eat or drink anything that could re-stain your teeth for 24-48 hours.
Use Desensitizing Products
Brush with sensitivity toothpaste or use other desensitizing oral products as needed.</
FAQs
What is the fastest way to whiten your teeth?
In-office whitening performed by your dentist produces the fastest results, lightening teeth dramatically in one visit.
How long do professional whitening treatments last?
In-office and dentist-supervised take-home kits can both brighten your smile anywhere from a few months to a few years before needing touch-ups.
Is teeth whitening safe?
When performed properly by a licensed dentist, teeth whitening is generally very safe. Make sure to follow your dentist's instructions.
Does insurance cover teeth whitening?
Some dental insurance plans may provide partial coverage for professional whitening treatments. Check with your provider.
Are whitening toothpastes effective?
Whitening toothpastes can't alter natural tooth color but they can help remove surface stains with consistent use.
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.
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