What exactly can you expect from professional teeth whitening treatments? This blog post will go over the ins and outs of what to expect from professional teeth whitening so you can be fully informed and confident in your decision to get the sparkling smile you deserve.

Consultation and Evaluation

Before the actual teeth whitening procedure begins, your dentist will typically conduct a thorough consultation and evaluation of your oral health. This includes assessing the level of staining and discoloration on your teeth, examining any existing dental work like fillings or crowns, and determining if you have any dental issues that could affect the teeth whitening results. Based on the evaluation, your dentist will recommend the best type of teeth whitening treatment for you.

Types of Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening can be performed through different methods, such as in-office whitening, take-home kits, and laser teeth whitening. The most commonly chosen method for teeth whitening is in-office treatment. This procedure entails the application of a potent bleaching agent to the teeth, which is then activated using a specialized light. Take-home kits, on the other hand, are custom-designed to fit your mouth and allow you to apply the same powerful bleaching agent over a longer period of time. Laser teeth whitening, as the name suggests, uses a laser to activate the bleaching agent on the teeth.

Procedure Process

The teeth whitening procedure itself is fairly straightforward. In-office treatments typically take around an hour, during which a protective gel is applied to the gums and lips, and the bleaching agent is applied to the teeth. You will then sit under a special light or laser, which helps activate the bleaching agent. The process may be repeated up to three times during a single appointment, depending on the level of teeth discoloration. The take-home kit process involves filling a custom mouth tray with the bleaching agent and wearing it for several hours a day or overnight. The time period varies depending on what your dentist recommends.

Aftercare

Once the teeth whitening procedure is completed, your dentist may recommend that you avoid certain types of food and drink for a few days, like coffee, tea, and red wine, which can cause staining. It is also important to maintain an excellent oral hygiene routine to ensure the longevity of the teeth whitening results. Brushing and flossing daily, along with regular checkups with your dentist, are essential for maintaining your pearly white smile.

Contact a cosmetic dentistry clinic in your area to learn more.