What Is Professional Teeth Whitening?

What Is Professional Teeth Whitening?

August 1, 2022

Like all other cosmetic dentistry procedures, the goal of getting professional teeth whitening in Houston is to change the appearance of your smile. That said, not all teeth whitening procedures are created equal, and you should know a few things about the difference between professional and over-the-counter treatments.

What Is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that improves the color of teeth. There are two types of teeth whitening: in-office treatments and at-home treatments. In-office procedures typically take less than an hour, and your dental professional will apply gum protection, so they don’t become sensitive or irritated. The dentist applies a bleaching solution to your teeth and then uses a special light to activate the peroxide. This procedure takes about an hour, but it’s not uncomfortable since you can relax with some music or reading material while your dentist does their thing.

Take-home teeth whitening kits are available over the counter at pharmacies and other retail stores. If this is your preferred method for getting brighter pearly whites, follow all directions carefully when choosing what type of kit best suits your needs (for example, if you have sensitive gums or teeth).

At-home kits also contain custom trays; however, you will have to wear them for several hours per day over several days or weeks before you see results.

What Does Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment Entail?

Professional treatment at a dental clinic in Central Northwest takes less than an hour and is relatively painless. The procedure involves:

  • Applying a gel that contains either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to your teeth
  • Using a special light to activate the gel, which causes it to break down into smaller molecules that penetrate enamel and dentin (the hard parts of your teeth), removing stains on the surface of your teeth

Why Should You Consider Professional Whitening?

If you want the best results, then it’s recommended that you go to a professional to get your teeth professionally whitened. The process is much more effective when done by a professional because they have the right tools and products for the job.

Professional teeth whitening is better than at-home whitening kits because:

  • It’s more effective. Because the whitening gel is applied controlled, it’s better able to penetrate deep into your teeth and give them maximum brightness.
  • It’s more convenient. You can get great results in your dentist’s office without having to do anything else but sit back and relax for a few minutes!
  • It’s more affordable. If you’re looking for an affordable solution, professional treatment will save you money because of its high-quality ingredients, meaning you won’t need as many treatments either.

How Long Does the Teeth Whitening Results Last?

The effects of professional teeth whitening can typically last for years, but it does depend on how well you maintain your oral hygiene. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, the process will wear off much quicker than if you do. The color of your teeth will also fade over time due to aging and external factors like smoking or drinking coffee. In some cases, people may need to repeat the treatment every few years to remain as white as possible.

What are the Teeth Whitening Side Effects?

It’s an effective way to improve your appearance, but it can also have side effects such as tooth sensitivity. Some people experience tooth sensitivity due to their enamel being worn away by the teeth whitening process. If this happens, it is okay to use fluoride toothpaste until your sensitivity disappears. Gum irritation can also occur if a protective gel is not applied to the gums before the whitening procedure.

The side effects of teeth whitening can be minimized by using the right type of product and following the instructions carefully.

Schedule an Appointment

Professional teeth whitening will give you the best results because it’s safe and effective. It’s also affordable, making it a good investment for anyone who wants to look their best!

Visit SND Family Dental for more information about teeth whitening and what you can expect during the procedure.

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