Professional Teeth Whitening: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re looking to brighten your smile and achieve a pearly white look, professional teeth whitening may be the solution for you. Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that’s done under the supervision of a dental professional, and it’s designed to give you a brighter, more radiant smile. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about professional teeth whitening, including how it works, the benefits, and what to expect during the procedure.
What is Professional Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening is a dental procedure that uses a special gel to remove stains and discoloration from your teeth. The gel contains a higher concentration of bleaching agents than over-the-counter products, which means that it’s more effective at removing tough stains and discoloration. Professional teeth whitening is typically done in a dental office, and it’s usually completed in one or two visits.
How Does Professional Teeth Whitening Work?
During a professional teeth whitening procedure, your dentist will apply a special gel to your teeth that contains a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These bleaching agents work by breaking down the molecules that cause stains and discoloration on your teeth. The gel is left on your teeth for a predetermined amount of time, usually around 30 minutes to an hour. Your dentist may use a special light or heat to activate the gel and enhance its whitening properties.
What Are the Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening offers a number of benefits, including:
- A brighter, more radiant smile: Professional teeth whitening can remove years of staining and discoloration, leaving you with a brighter, more youthful smile.
- Increased self-confidence: When you have a brighter smile, you’ll feel more confident and self-assured in social situations.
- Personalized treatment: Your dentist can customize the whitening treatment to meet your specific needs and goals, ensuring that you get the best possible results.
What Can You Expect During the Procedure?
During a professional teeth whitening procedure, you’ll be comfortably seated in a dental chair, and your dentist will place a special guard in your mouth to protect your gums and lips from the bleaching gel. Your dentist will then apply the gel to your teeth, and you’ll be asked to wait while it works its magic. Depending on the type of gel used, you may need to return for a follow-up visit to complete the whitening process.
FAQs
Is professional teeth whitening safe?
A: Yes, professional teeth whitening is safe when done under the supervision of a qualified dental professional. Your dentist will take steps to protect your gums and other soft tissues in your mouth from the bleaching gel.
How long does professional teeth whitening last?
The results of professional teeth whitening can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on your lifestyle habits and oral hygiene routine.
Are there any side effects of professional teeth whitening?
Some patients may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation after a professional teeth whitening procedure. These side effects typically go away on their own within a few days.
References
Here are some related links for more information on professional teeth whitening:
– [American Dental Association: Teeth Whitening]
– [Colgate: Teeth Whitening]
