Achieving a dazzling, white smile is a common desire, but our teeth often require assistance to maintain their desired whiteness. Fortunately, professional teeth whitening performed at a dental office can help fulfill this aspiration. It is a safe and effective method of enhancing your smile, and it is often the most cost-effective cosmetic dental procedure available. The results can be quite impressive, especially with in-office whitening, which can lighten teeth by three to eight shades in just a single hour.
When it comes to whitening, having the procedure supervised by dental professionals ensures faster and more reliable outcomes, while also providing better protection for sensitive gums and tooth-root surfaces compared to over-the-counter whitening products. Prior to beginning any whitening process, it is crucial to undergo an oral examination to ensure that the tooth discoloration is not a result of an underlying dental condition that requires treatment. It is important to note that having whitening solutions applied to your teeth by untrained personnel in shopping malls can be risky. If you have any concerns or questions regarding the most suitable whitening method for your needs, it is advisable to consult with dental professionals first.
Professional Whitening Methods
Professional teeth whitening utilizes potent bleaching gels with high concentrations of active ingredients that cannot be purchased without a prescription or over the counter.
In-Office Whitening — A highly efficient method that delivers rapid results using potent whitening solutions. To ensure your safety, a protective barrier will be placed over your gums and tooth-root surfaces. A retractor, a thin plastic device, will be used to hold your lips and cheeks away from your teeth. Next, a professional-strength hydrogen peroxide gel will be applied and left on for approximately one hour. Once the gel is removed, you will notice immediate and noticeable results.
Take-Home Whitening — Take-home whitening is another effective method to whiten your teeth, but it requires your active participation and may take several weeks to achieve your desired level of whiteness. The process begins with a mold of your teeth being taken, which is used to create two custom-made, thin, and flexible plastic mouth trays—one for your upper teeth and one for your lower teeth. You will be provided with whitening gel to fill the trays, and then you will position the trays over your teeth. The trays are typically worn for about an hour at a time, allowing the whitening gel to work its magic.
Caring for Your Whitened Smile
To ensure long-lasting whitening results, there are several steps you can take, although the duration may vary from person to person (ranging from six months to two years or even longer). Firstly, it is essential to maintain your regular oral hygiene routine, which includes daily brushing and flossing. Additionally, it is important to continue scheduling regular professional cleanings at the dental office. Avoiding foods and beverages that have the potential to stain your teeth, such as red wine, tea, and coffee, can also help preserve the whiteness. If you smoke, consider using your newly whitened teeth as motivation to quit, which is beneficial for your overall health as well. Periodic touch-ups, either at home or at the dental office, can help maintain a bright and beautiful smile for years to come.
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