How Professional Teeth Whitening Can Improve Your Smile

One of the most popular cosmetic dental procedure is teeth whitening. This procedure is ideal for anyone who wants whiter, brighter teeth. It can remove discolorations and stains caused by smoking or certain beverages, such as soda. You can get teeth whitening done at nearly any dentist’s office.

Preparation for teeth whitening

Before the teeth are whitened, a dentist will need to prepare the teeth. This means that any cavities or other problems will need to be addressed first. The whitening solution can enter a cavity to reach the inner part of the tooth, which can cause intense pain.

If gum disease has caused the patient’s roots to be exposed, that will also need to be taken care of. The next step is to clean the teeth to remove bacteria, food particles and plaque buildup. This will help prevent the teeth from being stained after the whitening is complete.

Types of teeth whitening

Two types of teeth whitening are vital whitening and non-vital whitening. Vital whitening is the most common type of whitening, where the dentist will use a whitening gel that contains hydrogen peroxide. This gel will be applied directly to the tooth’s surface. The dentist will also apply a substance that will protect the gums around the teeth so they will not get irritated. 

One example of this technique is the KöR whitening system. The solution is refrigerated continuously from manufacturer to office, so it maintains its whitening capabilities. Also, the gel is mixed at the time of application, to avoid the risk of increased sensitivity. 

For teeth that have had root canal treatments, vital tooth whitening may not work. The stains on teeth that have undergone root canal treatments come from inside the tooth. In this case, non-vital tooth whitening is needed. The dentist will fill a whitening product inside the tooth temporarily. The product will be left in place for several days. This procedure can be repeated one or more times until the tooth has reached the right color.

Following up

Teeth whitening, even done professionally, is not permanent. Patients will still need to follow up a few times with their dentist to ensure that the stains stay away. Patients who smoke or drink beverages that cause stains will need to visit more often. However, patients who care for their teeth should be able to go for about six to 12 months between in-office treatments. Patients who are given whitening trays as part of the KöR treatment can maintain teeth whiteness by touching up their teeth every few weeks.

Visit a dentist today

If you want a whiter, brighter smile, visit a dentist to get started. Professional whitening usually has better results than kits bought in stores or online, as these can increase tooth sensitivity. You can have peace of mind knowing that you will not accidentally damage your teeth. Visiting a dentist is the first step to getting a brighter smile.

Request an appointment here: https://www.casasadobesdentistry.com or call Casas Adobes Dentistry at (520) 365-0559 for an appointment in our Tucson office.