Teeth whitening refers to several procedures designed to make a person’s natural teeth seem brighter and whiter. Bleaching, sanding down stains, ultraviolet (UV) light treatment, and other procedures are all used to whiten teeth by a cosmetic dentist in Dallas, TX. There are several teeth whitening treatments available, and you may attempt a variety of methods at home. Your teeth can also be whitened in the dentist’s office. In this article, we will discuss the process of teeth whitening, its side effects, and longevity.
What is the Procedure for Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is done in one session and takes around an hour. Initially, scaling and extensive cleaning are performed. The gum is then coated with a gel, allowing only the tooth’s surface to be treated. A photoreactive substance is then put into the tooth. Blue light may make teeth three colors lighter. The following step is to rinse the teeth after achieving the desired shade or lapse of the maximum duration.
The dentist may use fluoride to reduce tooth sensitivity. Follow-up treatments are arranged until you reach your desired shade. The dentist may recommend home whitening trays for ongoing therapy and a thorough whitening procedure. Whitening makes teeth brighter but also removes discolorations caused by external factors such as diet, medication, coffee, or cigarettes.
Are There Any Side Effects?
There are no serious adverse effects associated with current teeth whitening methods. Other adverse effects include a sore throat and white spots on the gums. These adverse effects are similarly transitory, lasting only a few days following the surgery.
How Long Does Tooth Whitening Last?
The benefits of in-chair teeth whitening procedures typically last 2-3 years, therefore you will need to undergo repeated treatments to keep the color. To extend the treatment’s effectiveness, avoid meals and beverages that are known to discolor teeth. Smokers may require more frequent treatments than non-smokers, as tobacco may quickly reverse the benefits of the whitening treatment.
Our teeth are susceptible to discoloration due to our lifestyle choices, eating habits, and even medicines. The good news is that you may enhance your smile and get rid of the discoloration with a professional teeth-whitening process. However, the reason behind the stain determines how successful each therapy is. If the bleaching process is ineffective, bonding, creams, and veneers are always options. You should consult your dentist to figure out which technique is best for your specific requirements.