As you explore your options for brightening your smile, you’ll likely consider heading to the dentist for professional teeth whitening. Before you go, it might be helpful to learn more about the whitening process and what to expect.
The staff at Eriks Dental in Boynton Beach share a few important facts that address many frequently asked questions about professional teeth whitening.
There’s More Than One Teeth Whitening Method
Many people think there are only two ways to whiten teeth: over-the-counter methods and professional dentist methods. However, when you head to the dentist’s office for professional whitening, you’ll find there are a few different ways to brighten your smile:
Hydrogen Peroxide
Most whitening efforts include primary agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or Carbamide. These agents are usually presented in gel form, making them easy to apply either at home or in the dental office.
One-Hour Whitening
Your dental professional may also offer an Ultraviolet (UV) light method to help enhance whitening results. These might include Zoom® or Brite Smile®. A liquid gel is applied to your teeth before the high-powered light is introduced for improved and quick results.
At-Home Trays
Additionally, many dentists offer teeth whitening using at-home trays. With these methods, plastic trays are first designed to fit your teeth. You are then welcome to take them home to use with a liquid gel you can wear for roughly two hours each day.
Professional Whitening Isn’t Permanent
Don’t presume that professional teeth whitening means permanent results. Much like other oral health treatments, whitening needs to be maintained over time. If you’re a frequent drinker of soda, coffee, or tea, you’ll want to keep up with whitening services more frequently.
Even Healthy Teeth Can Experience Some Discomfort
Professionally teeth whitening is generally safe and minimally uncomfortable. However, everyone’s oral health conditions differ, and experiences will vary. Even patients with healthy teeth can still experience some discomfort, including soreness or gum sensitivity.
Results Will Vary
Professional teeth whitening is going to produce better results than the over-the-counter products out there. However, even the pro methods are going to have varied results. Remember, whitening is the process of removing stains and other discoloration from your teeth. It may take a few rounds to achieve the level of brightness you’re looking for in a great smile. And even the best results will only be three to eight shades brighter than your original tooth color.
Here are a few factors that might affect the results of your professional teeth whitening:
- Heredity Oral Health Conditions: Thicker, whiter enamel runs in families. More transparent enamel and discoloration can also be inherited. Both scenarios will impact whitening results.
- Lifestyle Habits: This includes brushing and flossing habits. Healthier teeth tend to respond better to whitening treatments.
- Your Diet: Heavy coffee drinkers will have more discoloration. Eating lots of vegetables leads to healthier teeth.
It’s Best Not To Whiten Too Often
Most dentists will warn patients that there is such a thing as too much whitening. Because there are chemicals involved, applications that are too frequent can be damaging to your enamel. Even overusing the retail versions of whitening products is not recommended.
Professional Teeth Whitening And More In South Florida
When you’re ready to schedule your whitening treatment or learn more about our dental services, let Eriks Dental Group help you achieve the best results.
Call our office at 561-733-4004 to learn more about our teeth whitening services and take the next step toward achieving your brightest smile.