Teeth whitening isn’t just the most affordable cosmetic dental treatment. It also provides results in less than one hour. But how exactly does teeth whitening work in a dental office? Read on for the step-by-step guide to in-office teeth whitening.
Step One: Oral Exam and Cosmetic Dental Consultation
Before your dentist can whiten your teeth, you’ll need to have a comprehensive oral exam. Your dentist will examine your teeth and all of the soft tissues in your mouth to determine eligibility for teeth whitening. If your teeth and gums are healthy, you will be approved for whitening and time permitting, you may have your whitening treatment immediately.
In most cases, unless you’ve had a cleaning recently, your dentist may recommend a cleaning before whitening. This is to ensure you get the full benefit of the treatment.
If your dentist finds oral health conditions such as cavities, gum disease, or any sign of infection or inflammation, those conditions typically have to be treated before whitening your teeth. This is to ensure that your mouth and smile are not just beautiful, but healthy and functional as well.
Step Two: Teeth Whitening Appointment
Having your teeth whitened in your dentist’s office is a noninvasive treatment. So, there’s not even a need for local anesthetic. Instead, your lips and gums will be protected. Then, the whitening agent will be applied to your teeth. A special blue wavelength light will then be shone on the teeth. The light helps to activate the whitening agent and accelerate the process of breaking up stains on the teeth.
The light will shine on the teeth for fifteen minutes. Then, the whitening agent will be reapplied, and the light will be directed at the teeth again. The same cycle will be completed a third time and final time.
Then, a desensitizing agent will be applied to the teeth to reduce tooth sensitivity. Your treatment will then be complete.
Step 3: At-Home Care for Whitened Teeth
You’ll need to continue brushing twice daily and flossing daily. You should also consider limiting stain-causing foods, or using a straw when drinking bright or dark-colored beverages. If you don’t use a straw, it is best to rinse your mouth or brush your teeth after drinking red wine, or coffee, for example. You should not smoke or vape, or use any form of smokeless tobacco.
You may opt to use a whitening toothpaste to help maintain your results. A touch-up take-home kit may also be available from your dentist. Be sure to continue to see your dentist every six months for cleanings and exams.
Frequently Asked Questions about Teeth Whitening
How long will my results from teeth whitening last?
Results vary. Some may experience brighter whiter teeth for more than a year. Others may need to repeat the treatment more frequently to maintain the results. Good oral hygiene habits, regular dental visits, and limiting foods and beverages that cause staining (red wine, red sauces, dark sauces, brightly colored fruit drinks, coffee, tea, and others) will help your teeth stay whiter longer.
I have sensitive teeth. Is whitening safe for me?
Whitening can increase sensitivity. It is best to talk with Dr. Sami about your sensitivity to see if whitening is right for you. If it is not the best treatment, other options including veneers or cosmetic bonding can help you improve the appearance of your teeth.
Book a Cosmetic Dental Consultation in Glen Cove, NY
If you’re interested in upgrading the appearance of your teeth and smile, schedule a cosmetic consultation with Dr. Sami at Gold Coast Smiles. Dr. Sami is highly trained, experienced, and respected in the field of cosmetic dentistry, including implant dentistry. To book a consultation, call 516-676-0250, or schedule your appointment online.