Stained teeth can impact your confidence. While over-the-counter whitening products are available, professional teeth whitening offers a reliable solution for immediate and noticeable results.
While the core whitening action might be similar to at-home treatments, professional teeth whitening boasts key advantages. You benefit from the expertise of a trained professional, ensuring the procedure is performed safely and effectively. Furthermore, the results are often immediate.
The number of sessions needed to achieve your desired level of whiteness is a personal decision. While a single one-hour visit can produce a visible change, optimal results typically require between two and six sessions.
Teeth become stained due to various factors. Common culprits include strongly colored foods and beverages like tea and coffee. Smoking can impart a yellowish tint, while certain diseases and medications can also cause discoloration. Natural aging also contributes to teeth darkening. These factors often prompt individuals to seek professional teeth whitening.
Your dentist will first assess your suitability for the procedure. Considerations might include existing tooth-colored fillings, which could appear unnatural after whitening. In some cases, a professional dental cleaning to remove tartar and surface stains may be sufficient to improve your teeth’s appearance, eliminating the need for whitening.
Once it’s determined that professional teeth whitening is appropriate, your dentist will discuss the range of achievable shades. They’ll use a shade guide to help you select the ideal level of whiteness for your smile.
Before beginning the whitening process, your dentist will typically polish your teeth to remove any remaining surface stains. The teeth being treated will then be isolated using a thin latex sheet or a special protective gel. The whitening agent is applied and left on for a specified duration, depending on the desired results. To enhance the bleaching process, a laser, heat, or light source may be employed.
The longevity of professional teeth whitening varies, lasting from several years to as little as six months. Lifestyle factors significantly influence the duration of the treatment’s effects. Ultimately, professional teeth whitening can significantly boost self-esteem. Consult with your dentist to determine if professional teeth whitening is right for you.