Learning to Manage Your Dental Problems

Professional Teeth Bleaching: What You Need To Know

29 July 2021 by Charlotte Beck

Flossing and brushing are essential for oral health. However, even good oral hygiene can't get rid of teeth discoloration. Medications, tea, coffee, and wine stain teeth over time, leading to the unsightly dentition. Thankfully, you can achieve a brighter smile through professional teeth whitening. Here is what you need to know about the procedure.

How Professional Teeth Whitening Works

First, a dentist will examine your teeth to determine whether you are the right candidate for teeth bleaching. Typically, you should have healthy gums and teeth to qualify for the procedure. After examination, an expert applies a bleaching agent to your teeth. Hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide are the primary products used to whiten your teeth.

In addition, a dentist utilizes laser light to produce excellent results. The highlight is that you don't need anesthesia for the procedure. The entire process takes about 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the number of teeth you want to whiten.

How Long Can the Results Last?

After teeth bleaching, you can expect the results to last for about six months to three years. Oral hygiene and your lifestyle play a crucial role in maintaining pearly whites. Also, there are some foods and drinks you can minimize to enjoy the results. Here is a list of things to take in moderation:

• Red wine
• Coffee
• Tea
• Sauces
• Colored sodas
• Sports drinks
• Berries

Also, you should minimize smoking to avoid staining your teeth. Acidic foods ruin your teeth and damage the enamel. After the procedure, keep off such meals since your teeth might be pretty sensitive.

What About the Costs?

Teeth whitening costs will depend on your location, dentist experience, and the number of teeth to be bleached. Your insurance might not cover the expenses since teeth bleaching is a cosmetic procedure. The bright side is that you can shop around for favorable prices. You only need to ensure that the dentist is highly qualified to attain an ideal outcome.

The price increases when you opt for more rounds of teeth bleaching. Bear in mind that over-whitening harms your teeth and heightens sensitivity. On that account, a dentist will assess your needs for proper treatment.

Are There Risks in the Procedure?

Teeth whitening comes with minor risks since it's non-invasive. Here are common side effects of the procedure:

• Gum irritation
• Sensitivity
• Pulp inflammation

During an in-office treatment, a dentist installs a device in your mouth for safety. This way, you won't swallow the bleaching agent that irritates the throat. Professional teeth bleaching is safer because an expert performs the procedure.

For more information about teeth whitening, contact a dental clinic such as Cottonwood Dental.

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