Professional Teeth Whitening: Types, Benefits, Costs, and Risks

It’s no secret that many people want pearly white teeth. Most people believe a smile is an important social asset. It makes you look younger and more attractive, and it helps boost self-esteem and confidence.

There are now a variety of professional teeth whitening methods available. From laser teeth whitening treatments to custom trays that use potent bleaching gel, you have several great options to choose from.

If you’re thinking about undergoing professional teeth whitening, this is for you. This blog post will talk about the different types of whitening treatments available, the benefits of professional teeth whitening, and the associated costs and risks.

We’ll also provide some tips on how to get the most out of your professional teeth whitening treatment. So if you’re ready to take your smile up a notch, keep reading!

What Is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that can help to improve the appearance of your teeth. The treatment involves using a bleaching agent to remove stains and discolouration from the enamel, resulting in teeth that are noticeably brighter and whiter. The bleaching products normally contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.

What Causes Tooth Discolouration?

Teeth staining is caused by a build-up of pigment on the teeth. This can happen due to several factors:

Intrinsic Stains

Intrinsic stains are found inside the tooth’s structure or below the tooth’s surface. These can be brown, grey, or yellow in colour and are usually caused by:

• Fluoride overexposure
• Medical conditions (Calcium deficiency, Celiac disease, liver disease, metabolic diseases, and rickets)
• Medications, such as tetracycline
• Oral trauma or injury

Extrinsic Stains

Extrinsic stains are found on the tooth’s an outside surface which causes enamel discolouration. These are typically caused by:

• Beets, blueberries, carrots, and tomatoes
• Chewing tobacco
• Coffee, red wine, sodas, and tea
• Smoking cigarettes
• Tooth decay

Other Risk Factors

There are other factors that make a person more susceptible to teeth staining. These include:

• Aging: Our tooth enamel gradually wears away over time due to aging. During this process, the next layer of the tooth (the dentin) becomes visible. The yellowish colour of dentin contributes to many people’s yellowing teeth as they get older.
• Genetics: Your genes determine both the thickness and brightness of your enamel, which may affect the colour of your teeth.
• Poor dental hygiene: Lack of regular tooth brushing and flossing allows food particles and bacteria to stick to teeth, which can cause tooth stains.

Different Methods of Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is becoming more and more popular as people become more aware of the impact that teeth stains can have on their appearance. There are a variety of teeth whitening methods available. If you are considering tooth whitening, talk to your dentist about which method is right for you.

In-Office Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment

In-office whitening is the quickest and most effective treatment method to whiten teeth. This treatment may be completed in a little over an hour, and it’s typically done in a dental office.

In-office treatment involves applying the whitening substance directly to the teeth. These treatments can be utilized in conjunction with heat, a specific light, or a laser.

It may take a few visits. However, after the first treatment, you should notice significant changes. This is the most expensive among all other teeth whitening treatment options, but you may save time by obtaining visible results right away.

At-Home Teeth Whitening Solutions

Those who want to whiten their teeth from the comforts of home may do so with at-home teeth whitening solutions. Your dentist can also provide a whitening tray and gel. A LED teeth whitening kit is also an option.

However, it is advised that you talk with your dentist before using at-home whitening products. People with dental restoration, sensitive teeth, and lots of crowns or fillings should see a dentist first.

Over-The-Counter Teeth Whitening Products

Over-the-counter whitening treatments are available for those who don’t want to spend so much and are looking for cheap teeth whitening treatment procedures. These alternative treatment options are perfect for people who don’t mind waiting as these whitening products take much longer to show results.

Some of the most common affordable teeth whitening products can be bought over-the-counter which include whitening gels, pens, strips, and toothpaste.

These aren’t for you if you’re looking for a quick way to whiten your teeth.

The Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening

A whiter smile can do wonders for your self-confidence, and there are a variety of teeth whitening methods available to help you achieve your desired level of whiteness. While some teeth stains can be removed with regular brushing, others may require more intensive teeth whitening treatments.

There are several benefits to professional teeth whitening that make it worth the effort. Here are some of them:

Better Results

A dental expert’s office is the best place to get excellent, brighter, and more uniform results from your teeth whitening treatment. Suppose you want a more thorough whitening or want to improve moderate to severe stains or discolouration on your teeth. In that case, a professional tooth whitening treatment is superior to any over-the-counter product, which is typically only suitable for minor stains.

Customised Treatments

Over-the-counter whitening products follow a one-size-fits-all approach to teeth whitening. A patient cannot customize the treatment according to their needs and preference.

Whitening your teeth in a professional setting allow you to achieve the exact shade of whiteness you desire and the areas where you need it most.

Faster, More Reliable Results

In around an hour, a professional teeth whitening procedure can make your teeth seem whiter. Other treatments need a series of sessions. Furthermore, the outcomes are dependable and long-lasting when home care recommendations are followed. Despite how much you use over-the-counter treatments, many of them have a poor reputation for not whitening your teeth.

Safety

Because you have an experienced dental professional performing the procedure and monitoring every step of your progress, a professional whitening treatment is considerably safer and more pleasant.

Over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments may harm gum tissue. This can cause irritation and teeth sensitivity to certain foods and beverages.

What to Expect with Professional Teeth Whitening

Are you considering getting your teeth whitened, but you aren’t sure what to expect? Here’s a rundown of the entire teeth whitening process.

Step One: Initial Consultation

You’ll have an initial consultation to ensure that you’re a good candidate for teeth whitening. You may not be suitable for the procedure if you have tooth sensitivity or thin, translucent teeth.

Step Two: Teeth Cleaning

After determining that you are eligible to continue, your dentist or dental hygienist will thoroughly clean your teeth. This will remove any plaque, build-up, or trapped food from your teeth. This process can effectively remove any coat or film on your teeth and help to improve the whitening of your teeth.

Step Three: Dental Exam

Your dentist will assess the condition of your teeth and gums to ensure that they are healthy enough to withstand the bleaching process. If you have any active cavities or gum disease, these will need to be treated before you undergo teeth whitening.

Step Four: Bleaching

Before bleaching, a protective gel will be applied to your gums to shield them from the bleaching agent. Then, the bleaching agent will be applied to your teeth and left on for half an hour or more with a laser or light pointed directly toward the whitening gel. This tooth whitening process may need to be repeated several times to achieve the desired level of whiteness.

After your teeth have been professionally whitened, you can expect them to be several shades brighter. The results of the procedure will last for several months, though you may need touch-ups periodically to maintain your new, brighter smile.

Who Are Good Candidates for Teeth Whitening?

In general, good candidates for teeth whitening are people who have healthy teeth and gums and those with good oral hygiene. If you have tooth decay or gum disease, you should talk to your dentist before undergoing any teeth whitening treatment.

Even though teeth whitening is considered generally safe, it is NOT recommended for:

• Small children and those under 16 years of age: Whitening should not be done on children who still have their baby teeth because their gums and teeth are still developing.
• Nursing mothers and pregnant women: Bleaching compounds can harm developing babies.
• Those who had previous restorative treatment: Dental restorations such as crowns, fillings, and veneers will not whiten because they are made from ceramic, metal, or porcelain. You can only whiten natural teeth.
• Those with cavities, exposed roots, and gum disease: Whitening treatments are generally discouraged for those with cavities, worn enamel, gum disease, and gum recession. These conditions need to be treated before beginning teeth whitening treatment.

How Long Does the Process of In-Chair Teeth Whitening Take?

While many at-home teeth bleaching kits are available, in-chair whitening is a faster and more effective option.

The length of time required for in-chair teeth whitening will vary depending on the severity of your staining and the level of whiteness you desire. However, most treatments take between 30 and 60 minutes.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

When it comes to teeth whitening, safety is always the top concern. While teeth whitening products have come a long way in recent years, some potential risks are still involved.

• Gum Burns and Blisters: These are usually only experienced when the teeth whitening treatment is not carried out correctly.
• Tooth Pain: A bleaching agent can cause extreme pain if it seeps into your tooth through a crack or unfilled cavity.
• Tooth Damage: Sometimes, teeth whitening treatments can damage the inner part of the tooth, requiring further treatment, such as a root canal.
• Enamel Wear: Aggressive tooth bleaching may wear down and cause damage to natural teeth enamel.

Overall, teeth whitening is safe when done correctly and under the supervision of a dental professional.

Are There Any Side Effects With Professional Teeth Whitening?

Although teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to achieve a beautiful smile, there are some side effects that you may experience after treatment.

The most common side effect of teeth whitening is temporary tooth sensitivity to hot and cold foods. This can occur when the bleaching agents come into contact with the pulp of the tooth, causing irritation and discomfort. In some cases, this sensitivity may last for a few days after treatment.

Other side effects of professional teeth whitening include gum irritation, dry mouth, and mild stomach discomfort.

Side effects after teeth whitening are usually mild and temporary and can last for a few weeks. However, if you experience any severe side effects or if the intensity of tooth sensitivity worsens, you should contact a qualified dentist immediately.

Ways to Maintain the Results After Teeth Whitening

After taking the plunge and whitening your teeth, you’re probably wondering how you can make sure your white smile lasts. Here are a few tips for maintaining your results:

First, avoid foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, and red wine. If you indulge, be sure to brush or rinse your mouth out afterwards.

Second, continue to brush and floss regularly. This will help remove any new stains that may have formed since your last whitening treatment.

Third, consider using a whitening toothpaste or mouthwash daily. These products can help remove surface stains and prevent new ones from forming.

Finally, don’t forget to schedule regular touch-ups with your dentist. They can help to make sure your teeth stay as white as possible.

Can You Whiten Your Teeth When Wearing Braces?

Alternative whitening options should be explored by people who wear traditional braces. This is because the brackets on the front of the teeth may prevent the bleaching agent from reaching the entire surface of the tooth. You’ll notice considerably darker spots where the brackets were, resulting in a two-tone look.

How Much Does Professional Teeth Whitening Cost?

Professional teeth whitening services can range in price depending on a number of factors, including:

• the type of treatment used
• the severity of tooth discolouration
• the number of sessions required
• dentist skill and expertise
• dentist location
• other procedures needed before whitening

In general, the cost of teeth whitening can range from $55 to $125 per tooth. This is exclusive of dental consultation and diagnosis per arch. While this may seem like a lot of money upfront, professionally whitened teeth are an investment that gives almost instant results.

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products simply cannot compare to the results achieved through professional treatment. If you are looking for quick, long-lasting results, professional teeth whitening is worth the cost.

Final Thoughts

Professional teeth whitening can be a great way to achieve brighter, whiter teeth. There are different types of teeth whitening treatments available, each with its own benefits and risks. It is important to understand the ins and outs of dental procedures before booking an appointment to ensure optimum oral health.

If you are considering professional teeth whitening, please call Narre Warren Dental Care at (03) 8771 4137 for more information. You may also book a consultation online. We would be happy to discuss effective and affordable dental health options and help you find the best solution for your needs.

Disclaimer – Use At Your Own Risk:- The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as advice for any individual case or situation. Any action you take upon the information on these blogs is strictly at your own risk. We will not be liable for any losses or damages in connection with the use of the information from these blogs.