Professional Teeth Whitening: FAQs

There are many teeth whitening treatments available in the market today. While some people prefer buying over-the-counter strips, gels, and toothpaste for teeth bleaching, others go for professional teeth whitening. Are you looking to have your teeth whitened but aren’t so sure? This brief rounded up some of the most commonly asked questions on the topic of teeth whitening.

What is Teeth Whitening, and how does it Work?

Teeth whitening is the process of lightening the color of your natural teeth using bleaching agents. When colored molecules adhere to your teeth surface, plaque or tartar, your teeth may get stained. While professional cleanings can help eliminate plaque and tartar, the stains will sometimes still appear in the dentin. During teeth whitening, a bleaching solution is applied to your teeth. This solution mixes with oxygen from the atmosphere and carbon inside the dentin and disintegrated the staining molecules on your teeth.

Who is a Suitable Candidate?

Anyone can opt for professional teeth whitening as long as they have healthy teeth and gums. Teeth whitening has proven to be effective at removing tooth stains,including coffee, tobacco, tetracycline, and tea. Also, it has no effect whatsoever on existing dental work.

Will it Work on My Veneers and Dentures Too?

Unfortunately, it won’t, as tooth whitening is designed to bleach your natural teeth. Existing restorations like bonding, veneers, bridges, crowns, fillings and will therefore not be lightened. This means that after teeth bleaching has been successful, Dr. Mark Summerford at Central Park Dental Care P.C will have to replace pre-existing dental work. This way, they will be able to match the new shade of your teeth.

Is Teeth Whitening Harmful to my Teeth?

Absolutely not. Studies indicate that teeth whitening products containing 10% carbamide peroxide do not affect the enamel’s mineral content or hardness. Dental health experts agree that professional teeth whitening causes no permanent damage to your enamel ad is therefore considered harmless.

How brighter will my Teeth get?

The whitening degree greatly varies from one client to another, so your dentist in Auburn, AL, cannot determine this for sure. The results are dependent on the extent of teeth discoloration. Generally, surface stains, dark and yellowed teeth are the easiest to bleach. In the case of heavily-stained teeth, you might require additional teeth whitening services.

Will the Whitening Last Forever?

No. teeth whitening is a temporary procedure, and you may need a retouch now and then. If you take care of your teeth, they may even last for a year or longer before needing a touch-up. However, exposing your teeth to foods and drinks containing tannin will see them start fading in a matter of months.

Does the Treatment Take Long?

You will only need 30 minutes out of your schedule to get your dream smile. The whole process is broken down into two sessions for application of the teeth whitening treatment. Each application takes 15 minutes.

What Should I Expect During the Procedure?

Once you have settled in the dental chair, your dentist will ask you to put on a tray that covers the teeth with a special whitening gel. To enhance the gel’s whitening effect, they might use a blue light.

Is the Treatment Painful?

It is not uncommon to experience sensitivity and discomfort during and after the procedure. Thesesymptoms shouldn’t worry you as they will disappear shortly. If you experience these symptoms, inform your dentist as they are in the best position to advise you on dealing with them.

Can I Make the Whitening Last Longer?

Yes, this is possible. Begin by staying away from tannin-containing foods as they could stain your teeth. However, if your cravings overcome your will to resist, ensure you brush your teeth soon after. You should also ensure you continue practicing good oral hygiene.

Why is Professional Whitening the Best Option?

While at-home teeth whitening works too, dentists often recommend professional teeth whitening because of speed. Unlike over-the-counter strips and gels, teeth whitening at the dentist’s office uses stronger formula capable of giving you a brighter smile within just one treatment. This isn’t the case with at-home kits.

Does my Insurance cover the Procedure?

No. typically, dental insurance doesn’t cover the costs of teeth whitening.