A beautiful, white smile is something many of us strive for. We often reach for the over-the-counter teeth whitening kits, but there are still risks associated with them. Learn about the benefits of professional teeth whitening and how it should be done to get that perfect smile you’ve been dreaming of!
What is Professional Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening is a process that uses bleaching agents to remove stains and discoloration from teeth. The bleaching agent used in professional teeth whitening is usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Professional teeth whitening can be done in a dentist’s office, or at home with a kit prescribed by a dentist.
The first step in professional teeth whitening is to have your teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist. This will remove any surface stains and give the bleaching agent something to work on. Next, the bleaching agent is applied to the teeth, typically with a mouthguard-like tray that fits over the teeth.
The tray is usually left in place for about an hour, during which time the bleaching agent will work to remove stains and discoloration. After an hour, the tray is removed and the teeth are rinsed with water. In some cases, another application of the bleaching agent may be necessary to achieve desired results.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening
There are many benefits to professional teeth whitening, including:
- Whiter teeth in just one visit: Professional teeth whitening can give you dramatically whiter teeth in just one office visit. Over-the-counter whitening products can take weeks or even months to produce results.
- Safe and effective: Professional teeth whitening is safe and effective when done by a trained dental professional.
- Long-lasting results: The results of professional teeth whitening can last for years, as long as you take care of your teeth and avoid stain-causing foods and beverages.
Types of Professional Teeth Whitening Procedures
There are a few different types of professional teeth whitening procedures available. The most common is bleaching, which uses chemicals to break up stains and discoloration. This can be done in a dentist’s office or at home with a kit from your dentist.
Another common type of professional teeth whitening is laser whitening. This involves using a focused beam of light to break up stains. It is usually done in a dentist’s office and can take one or two visits to achieve the desired results.
Finally, there is veneer whitening, which uses porcelain veneers to cover up stained teeth. This is usually done by a cosmetic dentist and can give you long-lasting results.
Cost and Duration of Professional Teeth Whitening
The cost of professional teeth whitening can vary greatly depending on the type of treatment you choose and the dentist you visit. Generally, in-office teeth whitening performed by a dentist will be more expensive than at-home treatments. The average cost of professional in-office teeth whitening is $650, while the average cost of at-home teeth whitening is $450.
The duration of professional teeth whitening also varies depending on the type of treatment you choose. In-office treatments usually take one to two hours, while at-home treatments typically take two to four weeks.
Conclusion
Professional teeth whitening is a great way to get your smile looking its best in no time at all. It’s important to remember, though, that it should always be done under the supervision of a qualified professional. From choosing the right product and technique for you, to monitoring your progress throughout treatment – only an experienced dentist can provide the level of control and care needed for safe and effective teeth whitening results. If you’re considering professional teeth whitening, make sure that it’s carried out by someone who has been properly trained in this field.
FAQs
Q: How often should I have my teeth professionally whitened?
A: The frequency of professional teeth whitening treatments will depend on your individual needs and desired results. However, most people typically need 1-2 treatments per year to maintain their desired level of whiteness.
Q: How long does professional teeth whitening last?
A: Professional teeth whitening treatments can last anywhere from 6 months to 1 year before touch-ups may be needed. It is important to avoid habits that will stain your teeth, such as smoking or drinking coffee, in order to prolong the effects of the treatment.
Q: Is professional teeth whitening safe?
A: Yes, professional teeth whitening is considered safe when performed by a licensed dentist or cosmetic dentist. The bleaching agents used are much stronger than those available for at-home use, so it is important to have the procedure done by a professional in order to avoid any damage to your teeth or gums.