Like many people, you probably want your teeth to look their best. And if you’ve ever been told that your smile is important and that it says something about who you are, then maybe you’ve thought about whitening your teeth.
The good news is that teeth whitening is one of the prominent cosmetic procedures today. The way you smile can say a lot about you, so it’s important to keep them looking their best.
In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need about teeth whitening so you can choose the right procedure for your needs.
Table of Contents
What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a non-invasive procedure.
The main focus of teeth whitening procedures is to make teeth appear whiter and more attractive. Teeth can be stained in various ways, including through coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco products.
However, teeth whitening procedures can also promote oral health by removing stains from the surface of the tooth enamel.
Teeth whitening procedures are available at many dental offices and are performed by cosmetic dentists in Beverly Hills and many other areas. The method usually takes about an hour and does not require any anaesthesia.
What Are Your Teeth Whitening Options?
There are three major whitening options you can choose from: in-office whitening, professionally dispensed take-home kits, and over-the-counter products.
In-Office Whitening
In-office whitening involves an appointment with a dentist or dental hygienist who will apply a peroxide solution directly to your teeth using a small plastic tray that fits over your teeth and gums.
The whitening process usually lasts about half an hour to an hour, and it can completed in one or multiple visits depending on the strength of the bleaching gel used by your dentist or hygienist.
Professionally Dispensed Take-Home Kits
These kits are made up of trays that fit over your teeth and contain a gel applied to them while in place. You wear the trays every night for about two hours, which allows the bleaching agent to soak into your teeth and remove stains.
The time you wear them depends on how deeply stained your teeth are; some people need to wear them for longer periods than others.
Over-the-Counter Products
Over-the-counter products are available in various forms, including gels, toothpaste, and mouthwashes. They typically contain a lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide than in-office treatments but are still effective at removing surface stains.
Because these products don’t involve professional supervision or customization to your teeth or smile, they’re good options if you want something less involved than traditional in-office procedures.
What Are Your Whitening Risks?
Teeth whitening carries some risks, but they’re usually mild and temporary. Here are a few of the most general risks:
Risk of Tooth Sensitivity
If you use a whitening product that contains peroxide, your teeth will become more sensitive to cold and hot foods and drinks. The ideal way to avoid this is to use a gel with very low concentrations of peroxide or a non-peroxide product.
Risk of Gum Irritation
If you use a whitening product that contains peroxide, your gums may become irritated. This can avoided using a gel with very low peroxide concentrations or a non-peroxide product.
Mild Discomfort
Some people experience mild discomfort when they first start using a whitening product; this usually goes away after two to three days as your teeth used to the treatment.
FAQ
What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure done at the dentist’s office or at home. In either case, it involves applying a bleaching agent to your teeth to remove stains from their surface. The most common reason people seek out teeth whitening is that they want a brighter smile, but there are other reasons, too.
What Happens During the Procedure?
The process takes about an hour and involves applying the bleaching agent to your teeth and waiting for it to work its magic. It’s important not to eat or drink anything while the gel is on your teeth; otherwise, you risk damaging them or getting the gel on other surfaces (like your tongue). If you follow all instructions carefully, you’ll be able to walk out of the dentist’s office with whiter teeth!
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
The effects of teeth whitening will last for years, but you’ll need to touch up your smile every six months to maintain that bright, pearly-white look.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Teeth whitening is safe and non-invasive. You can have your teeth professionally whitened in just one visit, with little-to-no risks involved.
