Teeth whitening is the most commonly requested cosmetic dental procedure today — and for good reason. In as little as one hour, stains and discoloration can be removed from the teeth for a brighter smile that is up to eight shades lighter! The bleaching agent used is safe and effective; a member of our team is always present to adjust the strength of the bleaching agent to achieve the desired results.
In this blog post, Greenville dentist Dr. Matthew Warner answers frequently asked questions about teeth whitening.
Why should I choose an in-office teeth whitening treatment over over-the-counter whitening products?
An in-office whitening treatment offers superior whitening results. Most over-the-counter whitening products are only able to lighten extrinsic stains, or stains on the outer layer of the tooth. For this reason, most over-the-counter whitening products can only lighten teeth by one or two shades — and results typically become visible after several weeks of use. On the other hand, in-office whitening treatments use bleaching ingredients that are able to remove both extrinsic and intrinsic stains (those that occur on the deeper layers and inner structures of the tooth). Not only are the results of in-office whitening treatment more effective, they are also instantly noticeable.
Am I a candidate for teeth whitening?
You may be a good candidate for teeth whitening if you are embarrassed by stains or discoloration caused by consuming dark-colored foods and beverages, using certain medications (e.g., tetracycline) or the effects of aging on the teeth. You must also have good oral health; any dental issues (e.g., cavities) will need to be treated before undergoing teeth whitening.
Is teeth whitening painful?
In-office teeth whitening is not painful; however, you may experience some tooth sensitivity after treatment. This is normal and should subside after a few hours. If you are prone to tooth sensitivity, let our team know beforehand so we can adjust the strength of the bleaching agent.
How do I maintain my lighter smile?
The effects of teeth whitening can last for several years, so long as the appropriate care is taken. This includes limiting the consumption of dark-colored foods and drinks, brushing and flossing regularly, not smoking, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups every six months.
Willoughby Dental is committed to helping you maintain your lighter and more radiant smile. We are pleased to offer loyal patients custom-made whitening trays as part of our “Whitening for Life” complimentary program. Every six months, we will provide you with your own set of trays so you can touch up your smile. Speak to a member of our team to learn more about “Whitening for Life.”
How do I learn more about teeth whitening?
A member of our trusted staff can meet with you to answer any other questions you may have about teeth whitening. To schedule a personal consultation with our team, please send us an email or call (864) 546-4242 today.
