What to Expect From Your First Teeth Whitening Procedure

A survey by Sunstar showed that tooth whitening is by far the most desirable dental treatment procedure, with 41% of people approving it.

And it’s no surprise why! Whitening teeth has many benefits, including removing stains and discoloration, looking more youthful, hiding imperfections, and boosting self-confidence. If you’re used to home whitening kits, you might not know what to expect from your first professional teeth whitening procedure.

Keep reading for a breakdown of what to expect.

Evaluating Your Condition

The doctor will ask to examine your mouth when you first arrive. They may take pictures or x-rays of your mouth. Expect questions regarding the cause of discoloration. Keep in mind that this dental procedure works best on healthy teeth.

Underlying conditions like cavities can affect the procedure’s efficacy or increase teeth sensitivity. What’s more, patients with porcelain crowns or veneers aren’t ideal candidates for teeth whitening. Depending on the severity of the staining, the doctor may recommend more dental visits for effective results.

Cleaning Your Teeth

The dentist will proceed to clean your teeth, removing any food debris, bacteria film, and other substances that may be causing teeth discoloration. This is yet another step meant to give you the best possible results.

Choosing the Right Whitening Solution

The most common teeth whitening procedure involves applying a hydrogen peroxide gel to the teeth. The dentist then shines a special light on the gel to activate it and speed up the whitening process. However, every patient has varying levels of discoloration, hence the need for a customized whitening solution.

Whitening Your Teeth

Placing gauze in your mouth keeps it dry during the teeth-whitening procedure. The whitening gel is harmless to your teeth but can also irritate your lips, cheeks, and gums.

Retractors help relax your jaw and protect sensitive tissues from coming into contact with the gel. The hygienist will also apply a protective barrier to the gums for added protection against irritation from the whitening gel.

Once the whitening gel is applied, the dentist shines a special light to activate it for better and faster results. Teeth whitening is painless, except for a slight tingling from the light.

You’ll probably go through three or four 20-minute rounds during the treatment. The teeth are then rinsed, and you can go home with a brighter smile.

After-Care Tips for Your New Smile

Professional cosmetic teeth whitening poses no significant risk, but some patients experience increased tooth sensitivity. The discomfort only lasts a few days.

Be careful not to eat any colorful foods for at least 48 hours after the treatment, as this will increase the risk of staining. You can resume your normal diet after this deadline, but it’s still best to limit foods like tomato sauce, balsamic vinegar, soda, and coffee that can stain your teeth.

Practices like drinking with a straw, flossing, and brushing twice daily, will keep your teeth for as long as possible.

Professional Teeth Whitening Procedure for a Healthy, Beautiful Smile

Teeth whitening can be the self-care solution you’ve been looking for, so why not go for it? It’s also one of the most affordable dental cosmetic treatments.

Call today to schedule a teeth whitening procedure and achieve a whiter, brighter smile!

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