Teeth Whitening – Explained!
Most people want a bright, white smile. Unfortunately, it can be a challenge to obtain this, considering most people also enjoy teeth-staining beverages like coffee, tea, and wine, as well as teeth-staining foods. The answer is getting a teeth whitening treatment at your dentist’s office.
How does teeth whitening work?
Unlike store-bought teeth whitening methods like whitening toothpastes, which remove only surface stains, a professional teeth whitening treatment (bleaching) breaks up stains below the enamel through a process called oxidation. This makes the stains less visible, and makes your teeth appear whiter.
What is the procedure for teeth whitening?
At DentalArts, we use the Zoom! whitening treatment, which takes an average of 90 minutes from start to completion. Before beginning the treatment, your dentist will apply a protective gel to your gums to prevent irritation from the whitening gel. The teeth whitening solution will then be applied to the teeth. A state-of-the-art Zoom! whitening light is applied to the teeth to enhance the effectiveness of the solution, providing immediate results. Following the treatment, you’ll be provided with an at-home whitening kit to help you maintain your smile.
When should I whiten?
If you are thinking about getting your teeth whitened for an event, such as a wedding, it’s recommended to whiten at least one month before the date of the event. If you’re planning on having dental work done to your front teeth, bleach your teeth first. Wait one week to allow your teeth to stabilize before undergoing any procedures.
What if I have teeth sensitivity when I bleach?
If you’ve traditionally had sensitive teeth, without any treatment being done to them, use a desensitizing toothpaste that contains potassium nitrate for at least one month before undergoing a teeth whitening procedure. Be sure to tell your dentist about your sensitivity so that he or she can adjust the percentage concentration of the whitening product.
Consult with your dentist before beginning any treatment for teeth whitening, whether it’s at home or at a dentist office. He or she will be able to advise you on what your options are and which would be best for you.