Are you tired of feeling self-conscious about the color of your teeth? Professional teeth whitening could be the solution you've been looking for. This guide will cover everything you need to know about professional teeth whitening, including the benefits, process, cost, and maintenance.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening offers numerous benefits compared to over-the-counter options. One major advantage is the effectiveness of professional treatments. Dentists use higher concentrations of whitening agents that can penetrate deeper into the enamel, resulting in faster and more dramatic results. Additionally, professional whitening is safer and less likely to cause sensitivity or damage to your teeth and gums.
The Process of Professional Teeth Whitening
The process of professional teeth whitening typically involves a consultation with your dentist to determine if you are a good candidate for treatment. Once approved, your dentist will start by cleaning your teeth to remove any plaque or debris that could interfere with the whitening process. Then, a protective barrier will be applied to your gums before the whitening gel is carefully applied to your teeth. Depending on the method used, a special light may be used to activate the gel and enhance results.
Cost of Professional Teeth Whitening
The cost of professional teeth whitening can vary depending on factors such as location, provider, and method used. In-office treatments can cost several hundred dollars per session without insurance. While this may seem expensive compared to over-the-counter options, many patients find that the results are well worth the investment. Some dental offices also offer financing options or discounts for multiple sessions.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Results
To maintain your newly brightened smile, it's important to practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Avoiding foods and drinks that stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries, can also help prolong the effects of professional whitening. If touch-ups are needed in the future, your dentist can provide at-home maintenance kits or additional in-office treatments.
Professional teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to achieve a whiter smile that boosts your confidence and overall appearance. By understanding the benefits, process, cost, and maintenance involved with professional whitening treatments, you can make an informed decision about whether or not it's right for you. For more information, reach out to a local professional, such as Jeffrey L Erwin DDS.
Our oral surgery and general dental website offers important information on how to prevent dry socket following a tooth extraction. After getting your tooth pulled, a protective blood clot develops over the extraction site. Many of our blog posts explain how this protective clot helps promote healing after an extraction.
You'll learn that if the clot is accidentally dislodged, dry socket may occur, which can raise your risk for infection and heavy bleeding. We'll provide you with important tips on how to prevent this by avoiding smoking and drinking through a straw. You'll also learn that swishing water around your mouth should be avoided for a couple of days following your extraction because doing so creates a suction that may dislodge your clot, leading to dry socket.