All You Need To Know About Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is the procedure used to brighten the appearance of a patient's smile. It is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures because it can greatly improve how your teeth look.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

The dentist will first protect your gums and lips before applying the whitening product to your teeth. The product will be activated, allowing it to penetrate your teeth to remove stains and whiten your smile by several shades. The entire process usually takes about one hour to complete. If your dentist chooses to perform an at-home whitening treatment, you will simply apply the whitening gel to the teeth using the provided mouth guard. You will then wear the mouthpiece while you sleep or for a few hours during the day. Your dentist will provide you with a customized set of impressions and instructions so you can maintain your new smile at home.

When is Teeth Whitening Needed?

In general, any patient who's interested in brightening their smile can benefit from having their teeth professionally whitened. Individuals who are interested in getting their teeth whiter should avoid using tobacco products, which can stain teeth brown and yellow. It's important to discuss all of your lifestyle and medical habits with your dentist before undergoing dental treatments to ensure there's no risk of complications. Additionally, pregnant or breastfeeding women should wait to have their teeth whitened until after they've finished breastfeeding or, done otherwise, cease nursing. Also, individuals with sensitive teeth and gums should be sure to discuss treatment options with a dentist before proceeding.

How Do Professional Teeth Whitening Treatments Work?

Professional whitening treatments are typically done in a dentist's office under the supervision of a licensed dentist. The treatments begin with the dentist protecting the patient's gums with a special covering before painting the bleaching agent onto the teeth. The bleaching agent is then activated with a laser or a UV light to lighten the teeth by several shades quickly and safely. Typically, patients undergo three to six sessions that last about an hour each to achieve the desired results.

After the procedure, patients are sent home with post-treatment instructions that typically include avoiding foods and beverages that can stain the teeth, such as coffee, red wine, and tea. Patients may also use special at-home whitening kits to keep their smile bright and white for months to come. Whether done professionally or at home, teeth whitening comes with many benefits, such as increased confidence, making a great first impression on job interviews, and making brides look their very best for their big day.

Highland Dental Care, located in Denver, CO, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies. Call us at (303) 455-3838 to schedule an appointment at our dental practice.