A bright smile exudes confidence, making teeth-whitening treatments important dental services. Teeth-whitening has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure for people looking to brighten their smiles. When you’re considering any whitening treatment, there are several important factors to consider beforehand to guarantee the smile you want. Discover some key things to know before getting your teeth whitened here.
Consult With Your Dentist First
Having a dental checkup before you try a whitening treatment is essential. Your dentist can assess whether your teeth and gums are healthy enough for whitening. They can also identify any underlying issues that could affect the outcome, such as cavities or gum disease. Consulting with your dentist can also enhance your understanding of the results you can realistically expect based on your teeth’s level of discoloration.
Professional Dental Whitening vs. Over-the-Counter Whitening
Professional whitening at the dental office is a widely recommended method for achieving a brighter smile with significant results. This procedure, which a dentist or trained professional performs, typically uses a higher concentration of whitening agents than over-the-counter kits. During professional whitening sessions, protective measures are taken to safeguard your gums and oral tissues from the potent chemicals. Patients usually see noticeable improvements in one visit, making professional whitening a quick solution for people looking for immediate results.
Teeth-Whitening Preparation
Preparation before any teeth-whitening procedure is necessary for maximal results. Effective preparation includes thorough oral-hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing to remove plaque and debris from the surface of your teeth. Avoiding or limiting staining substances, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco, in the days leading up to the treatment can also guarantee a more uniform and successful whitening treatment.
Be Aware of Sensitivity
Teeth-whitening can cause temporary sensitivity to temperature, pressure, and touch due to the bleaching agents that penetrate your tooth enamel to lift stains. If you already have sensitive teeth, inform your dentist, as they may be able to recommend a product or procedure that minimizes discomfort. Additionally, using toothpaste and soft-bristled brushes designed for sensitive teeth can alleviate some of these symptoms.
Maintenance Is Key
Post-whitening, maintaining your newly brightened smile requires commitment. Good oral-hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, are vital. To prevent stains, be mindful of foods and drinks that may discolor your teeth. You may also need to continue with periodic touch-up treatments or use whitening toothpaste to keep discoloration at bay.
If you’re heading into the dental office for teeth-whitening, keep these five things to know about teeth-whitening in mind to properly prepare and maintain your pearly whites. Teeth-whitening can be a rewarding process that boosts confidence and gives you a sparkling smile. Book a teeth-whitening appointment with us at Pinnacle Dental Associates. We’ll help you achieve a bright smile worth showing off!