A bright, white smile is important to a positive self-image and mental health. You can get this kind of smile through teeth whitening. Even if you brush your teeth the recommended amount, they are bound to change color due to age, environmental exposure, and trauma. Your teeth may end up shifting from white to yellow, brown, or grey. Professional teeth whitening treatment will help you return them to their original color.

What Is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure whose purpose is to lighten the color of your teeth and remove stains and discoloration. It involves using bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide to break down the stains on the enamel of the teeth. 

You can get a brighter, and whiter smile from a professional in a dental office compared to using an in-home kit. The goal is to get a whiter, more pleasing smile to improve the overall appearance of your teeth. Before starting, it is important to consult with your dentist to ensure safety and effectiveness. 

Who Needs A White Smile From Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is usually sought by people who are unhappy with the color of their teeth due to stains, yellowing, and discoloration. Below are some common reasons why someone might opt for a white smile:

• Staining From Foods & Drinks: Food items like red wine, coffee, tea, and certain foods can lead to stained teeth.
• Tobacco Use: Smoking or using other tobacco products can result in staining of the teeth.
• Aging: As people age, their enamel will naturally wear down, revealing the yellowing inner layer of the teeth.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Improper brushing and flossing may lead to plaque buildup, staining the teeth.
• Medication: Some medications, like tetracycline antibiotics, can cause staining of teeth in tooth development in children.
• Trauma: Injury to your teeth may cause them to darken or discolor.

Benefits Of Teeth Whitening

Improved Appearance

One of the main benefits of a teeth whitening procedure is a more glowing, white smile. A whiter smile enhances facial features, giving you a more attractive and youthful appearance.

Boosted Confidence

Stained and discolored teeth can negatively impact confidence and self-esteem. A teeth whitening procedure will help you feel more confident in your social and professional life by providing you with a more radiant smile.

Customizable Treatment

Teeth whitening treatments are tailored to your personal preferences and needs. Whether you are undergoing the procedure at a dentist’s office or using an at-home kit, you can choose the level of whitening you want.

Non-invasive Procedure

Teeth whitening is a non-invasive procedure that doesn’t involve drilling, injections, or anesthesia. It is considered safe and tolerable by people.

Quick Results

You can achieve quick, noticeable results in a short amount of time. Professional teeth whitening procedures will provide you with a dramatic white smile in one session.

The Procedure For Teeth Whitening

Consultation

Your teeth whitening process begins with a consultation with your dentist. During this, the dentist will take a look at your teeth to see if you are suitable for laser teeth whitening. You can discuss your desired outcomes and expectations and any potential risks or side effects associated with the procedure.

Preparations

Before your white smile treatment begins, the dentists will clean your teeth to remove any plaque, tartar, or debris. This will ensure that the whitening gel will deeply penetrate your enamel and achieve the desired result. 

Application Of Whitening Gel

Once your teeth are clean and dry, your dentist will apply a special whitening gel to your teeth’s surface. The gel usually has hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, both active ingredients that help break down stains and lighten the color of your teeth. The gel is applied to each tooth and needs to be in place for a specific amount of time.

Activating With Laser

After the lightening gel is applied to your teeth, a special laser will be used to activate the whitening agents and enhance their effectiveness. The light accelerates the whitening process by increasing the penetration of the gel into the enamel and breaking down the stains quickly.

Final Evaluation

Once your whitening treatment is complete, the dentist will look at your results to ensure your teeth have the desired shade of whiteness. Depending on your initial color and personal goals, you may need multiple whitening sessions to achieve your desired colors. 

Post-treatment Care

After your white smile treatment is done, your dentist will give you post-treatment instructions which will include avoiding certain foods and beverages that could stain your teeth and maintaining good oral hygiene habits to prolong the effects of the whitening treatment.

Risks And Complications From Teeth Whitening

• Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity is a temporary side effect of a teeth whitening procedure that happens when the teeth’s inner layer (dentin) is exposed. How sensitive and for how long will depend on your sensitivity level, the method used, and the whitener’s chemical concentration. 
• Gum Irritation: Gum irritation only happens if the whitener touches your gums which results in inflammation or soreness. However, a professional dentist will avoid irritation by applying a protective barrier to your teeth before applying the whitener. 
• Tooth Damage: Too much usage of whiteners results in a damaged enamel. The whiteners are harsh and wear down the enamel if overused. This also results in increased susceptibility to cavities and decay. 

Conclusion

Teeth whitening is a popular and effective cosmetic procedure that can boost your confidence and give you a white smile. However, you must know everything there is to know about this procedure before you make any commitment. Teeth whitening is a relativity safe gateway to a whiter, and brighter smile but it is still best to consult with your dentist. To learn more about teeth whitening, what to expect, or more, contact us today!