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Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that lightens the natural color of teeth, resulting in a noticeably brighter appearance. This process utilizes high-concentration bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which are applied directly to the enamel in a dental office. Here’s information on professional whitening treatments and what to expect:
How Professional Options Lighten Teeth
While drugstore aisles are filled with whitening strips, toothpastes, and gels, there are key differences between these over-the-counter (OTC) options and professional treatments. One distinction lies in the concentration of the bleaching agent; professional treatments use much stronger formulations that are not available in stores. Higher concentrations of peroxide allow in-office treatments to lighten teeth in 30 to 60 minutes. A dentist can assess your oral health to determine if you are a good candidate for professional whitening options.
Professional treatments are customized to each individual’s mouth. Some dental practices offer custom-fitted trays and high-grade whitening gels that you can take home. Custom trays help the gel stay in contact with the teeth, preventing the solution from touching the gums, which could cause irritation. In-office teeth whitening services precisely apply whitening solutions for dramatic color improvements in one appointment.
How Professional Treatments Impact Teeth
The primary mechanism of professional teeth whitening involves an oxidation reaction. When the bleaching agent is applied, it enters the enamel and dentin of teeth. Discolored pigments within a tooth are held together by chemical bonds. As these bonds break down, the organic compounds responsible for staining become smaller and lighter in color. The result is a whiter and brighter smile.
Intrinsic and Extrinsic Staining
There are two main types of tooth discoloration. Extrinsic staining occurs on the outer layer of the tooth, the enamel, and is typically caused by environmental factors like tobacco use or the consumption of pigmented foods. Intrinsic staining occurs within the inner structure of the tooth, known as the dentin. Intrinsic stains can result from trauma, aging, or exposure to certain medications, like tetracycline. Professional whitening is highly effective at removing stubborn extrinsic stains and helps improve the appearance of intrinsic discoloration.
Possible Side-Effects
While generally safe when administered by a professional, the whitening process can temporarily increase tooth porosity. The bleaching agents open the microscopic pores in the enamel to reach the stains. This exposure allows external stimuli, such as cold air or hot liquids, to reach the nerve more easily, causing heightened sensitivity. This discomfort is usually transient and subsides as the teeth rehydrate and remineralize after treatment, but dentists often apply desensitizing gels to mitigate it during the procedure.
What Foods To Avoid After
After undergoing a professional whitening treatment, the teeth are more susceptible to re-staining for the first 24 to 48 hours. To protect your investment and prolong your results, try to avoid consuming highly pigmented foods and beverages during this period. This includes dark liquids like coffee, tea, red wine, and cola. Some pigmented foods to avoid include:
- Berries
- Soy sauce
- Tomato Sauce
- Curry
Acidic foods and drinks should also be limited, as they can weaken the enamel and make it more prone to absorbing new stains. If you do consume staining agents, it may be beneficial to rinse your mouth with water immediately afterward. Rinsing helps neutralize acids and wash away pigments before they have a chance to settle into the enamel pores.
Make a Teeth Whitening Appointment
Achieving a brighter smile is a straightforward process when guided by a dental professional. If you are interested in enhancing your smile, consult with your dentist to determine if professional teeth whitening is the right option for you. A consultation gives you the opportunity to discuss your options and have your oral health examined. Contact your dental office to schedule an appointment today.
