A bright, white smile makes a great impression in personal and professional situations. Many patients achieve this look through teeth whitening near me treatments.
Over-the-counter teeth bleaching gels, mouthwashes, toothpastes, and whitening trays can be used to remove surface stains from food and beverages. Certain medications such as liquid iron and B-vitamin supplements or antibiotics like tetracycline can also stain the teeth.
Cost
The cost of teeth whitening depends on the type of treatment you choose and how much discoloration you have. Whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments, but it’s not always covered by dental insurance. The good news is that there are affordable options available to help you get a brighter smile.
A dentist can provide you with a professional-grade whitening “bleach” that will lighten your teeth, usually within an hour. The procedure is more effective than whitening toothpaste, and it’s safe for your teeth.
Typically, teeth bleaching procedures target extrinsic staining, which is caused by lifestyle choices like smoking or frequent consumption of coffee and soda. The treatment can also target intrinsic stains, which occur in the inner dentin layers of your teeth and are often due to trauma. To prevent new stains from forming after a whitening procedure, you should abstain from eating or drinking anything colored for 24 hours. This will give your teeth a chance to rehydrate and not re-absorb the bleaching agent.
Results
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments, and is a quick and inexpensive way to brighten your smile. The effects can last several months to a few years, depending on how frequently you consume foods or beverages that stain teeth and your dental hygiene habits. It is recommended to get a professional-strength whitening treatment for optimal results.
The procedure involves applying a whitening gel or using whitening trays to bleach discolored tooth enamel. It is usually performed in the dentist’s office under close supervision. Whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide, which works by breaking down stains and making them less noticeable. In addition to teeth whitening, New York cosmetic dentists offer other procedures to improve a discolored smile, including porcelain veneers.
During a teeth whitening session, patients will receive an oral exam to ensure that they have healthy gums and that their existing dental work does not require attention before undergoing the whitening process. This exam may include x-rays and/or dental impressions.
Side effects
Whitening is a safe way to improve the appearance of teeth. It is typically a short and painless procedure, and it can give you the confidence to smile freely. However, it is important to understand the risks and side effects before getting whitening treatment.
One of the most common whitening side effects is sensitivity. This usually goes away within a few days after treatment is completed. Patients may also experience irritated gums and red lips. This is typically a result of the bleaching agents in the whitening solution.
Teeth whitening works best on extrinsic stains. It is not effective on intrinsic stains, which are deep inside the tooth. For this reason, it is important to consult with a dentist before undergoing whitening treatments. He or she can show you a shade guide to help you decide whether this is the right option for you. Another option is dental veneers, which are thin porcelain pieces that can be placed over the front of the teeth to hide discoloration.
Precautions
A bright white smile is a sign of youth and beauty. However, the natural aging process and certain habits can discolor teeth. Stains can also affect a person’s self-esteem and confidence. Teeth whitening is a safe and quick procedure to remove unsightly stains.
Some people experience tooth sensitivity after a whitening treatment. It is usually triggered by hot or cold foods and drinks and can cause pain that feels like a sharp, sudden sensation in the root of the tooth. It is important to use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth to minimize discomfort.
During the whitening treatment, a dentist will apply a rubber-like barrier over your gums to protect them from the whitening solution. They may also apply a gel that will help prevent irritation and sensitivity. It is also recommended to avoid eating or drinking anything colored for 24 hours after a whitening procedure, as the teeth will be dehydrated and may re-absorb the stain.