Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure offered by most general dentists. It targets and removes tough stains on teeth, brightening the patient’s smile. It is important to properly prepare and have realistic expectations before beginning teeth whitening treatment to ensure a successful treatment process.
The teeth whitening treatment process involves a consultation visit with a licensed dentist, preparing the teeth for treatment, applying the bleaching agent, and rinsing the mouth. More than one application of the bleaching agent may be applied to achieve ideal results. The following is a review of each step you can expect throughout treatment.
The first step is to schedule a consultation visit to discuss teeth whitening as a cosmetic treatment solution. This visit gives the dentist an opportunity to conduct an oral examination and determine if any treatment is necessary before teeth whitening, such as teeth cleaning, cavity fillings, dental crowns, etc. If the stains are intrinsic (meaning they are deeper and more severe), the dentist may recommend dental bonding, dental veneers, or another alternative to teeth whitening.
The dentist or hygienist will begin by isolating your teeth. This typically involves using a lip retractor and placing gauze to keep the mouth dry. They can also cover the gums with a rubber dam to isolate the teeth. This reduces the risk of side effects such as gum irritation or sensitive teeth.
Once the teeth are isolated, they then apply the bleaching agent. This typically contains hydrogen peroxide, which is effective in brightening your smile. After applying the bleaching agent, they focus a dental light on the area to allow it to work quickly. This typically takes about 20 minutes.
Additional applications of the bleaching agent are likely necessary, depending on the severity of the teeth stains and the patient’s treatment goals. It is not uncommon to need three or four additional applications of the bleaching agent. The dentist is there to monitor any discomfort during the procedure. Once the desired results are achieved, the mouth is rinsed and treatment is complete.
The results should be noticeable immediately following treatment, so the patient can leave and show off their bright and beautiful smile. Dentists typically provide aftercare instructions to help the patient maintain the brightness of their smile. This includes limiting consumption of foods and drinks that may increase the risk of teeth stains, such as coffee, tea, and tomato-based dishes. Regular follow-up visits may be necessary as well (every four to six months). The results of teeth whitening should last for a year or more.
The best way to determine if treatment is right for you is to discuss the process with a dentist. Here at our dental practice, we help our patients through the entire treatment process, from the consultation to the treatment to ensure they can keep their smile bright long-term. Reach out today to start the process.
Are you considering teeth whitening in the Santa Rosa area? Get more information at https://www.kennethbauerdds.com.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Santa Rosa, CA.
Over-the-counter teeth whitening products can cause teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, and undesirable results. Instead, it is best to visit a licensed dentist for teeth whitening treatment. They can ensure the safety and effectiveness of teeth whitening treatment. While it may be tempting to try and save a few dollars on a store-bought whitening kit, it is…
A dental bridge might be the right treatment if you have lost one or more teeth and want to enhance your oral health and self-esteem. The dental bridge can restore your smile’s appearance and allow you to chew normally once more. If you are considering this treatment, this article outlines all the steps involved so…
Dental veneers restore one’s smile with custom-fit shells. The dentist will place them on the front surface of the teeth to cover any damage and discoloration. Understanding the process of getting these restorations can help you prepare for your next appointment. Here are the details on what to expect when getting dental veneers.Consulting a general…
A skilled cosmetic dentist can take a smile that you are not confident in and transform it into something radiant. Whether you are self-conscious about the shade of your teeth or how they sit in your mouth, know that you do not have to live with blemishes and imperfections forever. A cosmetic dentist can help…
If the dental bridge is a good match, the dentist will develop a tailored treatment…
Most patients feel some discomfort after getting dental veneers. But dental functions will be normal…
A cosmetic dentist can help you achieve your dream smile through numerous treatments, all customized…
When searching for a kid-friendly dentist for a child’s first dental appointment, it is important…
Dental sealants provide extra protection to teeth, especially for those more prone to tooth decay.
Dental crowns can be a strong base for dental restorations, besides their cosmetic and restorative…
