White teeth are a symbol of youth and health and a bright smile can boost your confidence and help you feel more comfortable in social situations. However, over time and due to dietary habits, teeth can become discolored. Fortunately, teeth whitening near me is available for those who want to refresh their smiles and restore a more youthful appearance.
Teeth whitening is a safe, quick and effective way to improve the look of your smile. The whitening process works by dissolving and removing the natural coloration from your tooth enamel. When performed by a professional, the teeth whitening process is less likely to result in tooth sensitivity and the results can last for months or even years. In addition, dentists use high-quality whitening products that are safer and more effective than those sold over the counter.
During the teeth whitening treatment, a special mouthguard protects the gums. A special whitening gel is then applied to the surface of the teeth. The whitening gel contains a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide that breaks down the pigments in the tooth enamel to make them appear lighter. The treatment is typically completed in one visit to the dentist, although the results will vary.
If you are interested in getting your teeth whitened, contact a cosmetic dentist to learn more about the options available to you. The dentist will be able to evaluate your smile and determine whether you are a good candidate for whitening. If you have existing dental work, the dentist may recommend a different cosmetic treatment to address those issues before recommending whitening.
It is important to note that teeth whitening is not permanent, and the results will fade with regular consumption of dark-colored beverages and foods, tobacco use or infrequent brushing. You can slow the fading process by maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine, including daily brushing and regular visits to the dentist for teeth cleanings.
In-office whitening is typically more effective than at-home whitening kits because the whitening gel is a higher concentration. In addition, the whitening gel is custom fit for your teeth, which prevents leakage and irritation to the gums.
When you schedule a whitening appointment, the dentist will begin the procedure by thoroughly cleaning your teeth and removing any superficial staining. Then, if you are using ZOOM whitening, the dentist will apply the whitening gel to your teeth and will use the chairside whitening activating light. In-office whitening usually takes 45 minutes to complete, and the results can be long-lasting. However, it is essential to remember that teeth whitening will not lighten your fillings, crowns or veneers, so these treatments may need to be replaced after the whitening process. In addition, the whitening treatment will not work on your wisdom teeth.