Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental treatment used to remove years of stains in as little as one dental appointment. Teeth can become stained from a number of things including highly pigmented foods and beverages, medications, age, tobacco use, and oral hygiene habits. Professional teeth whitening procedures performed by your Saratoga cosmetic dentist are able to remove stains from both the outer tooth enamel and the underlying dentin layer for a whiter and brighter smile.
Did You Know?
During only a single professional teeth whitening treatment, your teeth can be lightened approximately 5-10 shades!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Am I a candidate for teeth whitening?
You may be a candidate for teeth whitening if you have stained teeth or if you are looking for an easy and affordable way to makeover your smile. However, ideal candidates for teeth whitening are those who have healthy teeth and gums that are free from tooth decay or gum disease. To find out how teeth whitening can improve your smile, schedule a consultation with your Saratoga cosmetic dentist today!
How does teeth whitening work?
The whitening agents used for profession teeth cleaning treatments contain a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide than over the counter treatments. Both types of peroxides react with the chemical bonds of discolored molecules in order to essentially dissolve them. Once the molecules have been broken down, the whitening agents break down into water themselves and are safely absorbed by the body.
What can I expect when having teeth whitening treatments at my Saratoga dental office?
When having your teeth whitened at your Saratoga dental office, you can expect to have your mouth prepared for whitening treatment by cleaning your teeth and isolating your gums. A professional teeth cleaning is necessary to remove all plaque and tartar so that the whitening agent can be applied smoothly to the surface of your teeth. It is also necessary to isolate or protect your gums to avoid them becoming irritated by the whitening agent. Once your teeth are cleaned and your gums are protected, the whitening agent will be applied to your teeth with a brush or you will have a whitening tray placed. No matter the method, the whitener will need to remain in place for 30-60 minutes before being rinsed off or removed to obtain results.
What can I expect after my teeth whitening treatment?
After your teeth whitening treatment, you will be able to return to your usual routine. However, your dentist will likely warn you to avoid consuming highly pigmented food and beverages for the first 24 hours following your treatment. This is because the whitener will keep working for up to 24 hours after it is applied. By not exposing your teeth to new stains during this time, you will get better results from your whitening treatment.
In some cases, you may also notice a brief period of tooth sensitivity after having your teeth whitened. In most cases, this will fade within a few days. If you are prone to tooth sensitivity, brushing with a sensitivity toothpaste a week before and after your whitening treatment can reduce sensitivity issues. Some people also experience minor gum irritation if the whitening agent came in contact with the gums. Again, this should resolve itself within a few days following whitening treatment.
