Despite the popularity of the over-the-counter teeth whitening products available in the market, professional whitening treatment offered at a dental office remains the best option to yield optimum outcomes. A dentist carefully balances the products and procedures used to achieve a natural level of whiteness without harming the tooth enamel. People seeking whiter teeth should talk to a dentist to determine if professional whitening treatment is effective and safe.
What Happens During A Professional Teeth-Whitening Appointment?
The professional teeth whitening procedure offered at a dental is personalized to match the patient’s precise needs, unlike the items bought online or over-the-counter. The outcomes will differ based on the person’s current dental health and any prior dental procedures that then undergone before.
Pre-Whitened Assessment Method
The dentist evaluates the patient’s current shade and takes photos before starting the teeth whitening process. He/she will discuss the desired goals with the patient and take note of any previous dental work, such as crowns or tooth bonding.
Polishing Of The Tooth
The teeth are cleaned and polished to eliminate plaque and buildup before the whitening process. Polishing the teeth with a slightly abrasive and grainy material helps keep the teeth’ surface consistent and improves the overall outcome.
Mouth Protection
The areas of the mouth surrounding the teeth should be protected during the teeth-whitening procedure. The gums, lips, and internal mouth tissues may be pulled back with retractors or covered with gauze during the procedure. Additionally, the gauze keeps the teeth dry while the whitening process takes place.
Tooth Whitening
There are various steps in the teeth-whitening procedure. First, the dentist applies the whitening agent to each tooth. This solution is applied only to surfaces on the front of the teeth. The next step depends on the types of teeth whitening provided by the specific dentist. Some products require a specific light to activate them, while others can simply be applied and left alone for a predetermined period. The dentist leaves the solution on the patient’s teeth until the desired tint is achieved or the allotted amount of time has passed.
Rinsing & Completion
Once the whitening goal has been achieved, the bleaching solution is rinsed off, and the gauze or other protective devices are also removed. The dentist may occasionally use a fluoride rinse to prevent tooth sensitivity caused by teeth whitening in case some people. It is possible to assess the treatment’s effectiveness at this stage to decide whether any additional appointments are required by comparing the old and new colors.
What Are The Aftercare Tips To Follow After Teeth Whitening?
Adopting a few aftercare tips can help the outcomes of teeth whitening to last longer.
- The first 48 hours after a teeth-whitening process are vital for the teeth because they are more susceptible to blemishes during this time. Wine, tea, coffee, cherries, chocolate, beets, all kinds of berries, and dark sauces should be avoided during this period. Avoid smoking and eating dark-colored food items if you want the best results.
- The teeth whitening procedure weakens and opens the tubules, or pores, in the teeth’ enamel. Your teeth are more susceptible to stains and decay after whitening due to the weakened enamel, which worsens further due to the acid. As part of your aftercare regimen, you should avoid soda, pickles, lemons, pickles, limes, and other fatty foods and beverages.
- Try to include more fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. They enhance the production and flow of saliva. Increased saliva helps neutralize acids and clean the teeth. The crunchy veggies can also remove the temporary stains before they become permanent.
Now that you are aware of what to expect during a professional teeth whitening treatment do not hesitate to achieve a perfectly white smile. Visit a dental office near you today.