Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can dramatically change the way your smile looks in just one dental visit. People also choose this procedure to boost their confidence and presentation. But should you undergo regular teeth whitening, and is it safe for your teeth? Please read our article to find answers to these questions.
Should You Undergo Regular Teeth Whitening?
Generally, professional teeth whitening is considered a safe procedure. However, you still might experience some side effects:
- Teeth sensitivity to changes in temperature (typically goes away in several days)
- Irritation, pain, or inflammation of the gums
The side effects might be more severe or less noticeable depending on the type and strength of the whitening solution used and on the initial condition of your teeth and gums. Thus, it is best to limit the frequency of the procedure to once every 2 to 3 years. This schedule should be enough, as the results of teeth whitening tend to last for approximately the same amount of time. However, people who have cavities, tooth decay, or gum disease should be more careful when undergoing the procedure.
Remember that excessively frequent and overly concentrated teeth whitening will only cause harm or permanent damage to the enamel of your teeth. Instead, we recommend preserving the achieved shade of the teeth by taking proper care of your teeth and adhering to a diet that excludes staining foods and beverages.
What Is the Professional Teeth Whitening Procedure?
There are two types of professional teeth whitening: an in-office procedure and at-home trays provided by your dentist. Both options are custom-made for each patient. Typically, hydrogen peroxide is the primary agent in teeth-whitening solutions.
In-office teeth whitening appointments typically last approximately one hour. First, your dentist will discuss the shade of the teeth you want to achieve and then prepare your teeth for the procedure. During the procedure, peroxide solution is applied to the teeth for about 20 minutes. Sometimes, additional equipment, such as LED light or laser, can be used. Your teeth can get up to 8 shades lighter in one procedure.
If you opt for custom-made whitening at-home trays provided by your dentist, you will have to wear them for three to four hours daily for several days until the desired result is achieved.
Professional Teeth Whitening Versus Over-the-counter Whitening
Contrary to the common belief, over-the-counter teeth whitening kits are different from professional teeth whitening done at a dental office or at-home kits your dentist provides. Over-the-counter solutions are mass-produced and do not take into account your personal needs and the condition of your teeth. Thus, you might permanently damage your teeth using over-the-counter whitening solutions, if they prove to be too strong in your case.
In addition, some patients may be recommended not to undergo teeth whitening altogether if they have some oral health issues. Only your dentist can come to a conclusion if teeth whitening is safe in your case after a thorough examination.
Another disadvantage of over-the-counter whitening solutions is that they can be much less effective than professional teeth whitening at a dental office. In some cases, you will have to wear whitening trays for several days, but the results can still be negligible.
Also, having teeth whitening done professionally allows you to discuss the ideal shade of teeth you want to achieve with your dentist. Over-the-counter whitening solutions cannot be so precisely controlled and have unpredictable results.
How Can the Results of the Teeth Whitening Procedure Last Longer?
There are five main rules we suggest following if you want the results of the teeth whitening procedure to last longer:
- Avoid staining foods and beverages and those containing dye (red wine, black coffee and tea, berries, candies, soda, etc.) or brush your teeth immediately after consuming them.
- Do not use abrasive toothpaste or toothbrush to avoid creating micro scratches on the surface of your teeth.
- Abstain from smoking—the leading cause of teeth staining and discoloration.
- Maintain thorough daily oral hygiene by brushing your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing every evening.
- Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings, checkups, and in-office fluoride treatments.
Make an Appointment Today
To have safe and effective teeth whitening with stunning results, make an appointment at the cosmetic dentistry in Highland. Our cosmetic dentist will carefully examine your oral health and choose the right whitening solution for you. If they deem none acceptable, they will offer other cosmetic procedures. We look forward to your visit to East Highland Dental.