What you should know about professional teeth whitening and how it is performed
If you are in search of the best results for your teeth, the results delivered by professional teeth whitening is unparalleled. Working with a professional is the optimal way of getting the results you want that over-the-counter teeth whiteners don’t always provide.
So, what’s the biggest difference between OTC brands and getting your teeth professionally whitened? The price points between OTC, professional at-home kits, and in-office whitening are significantly different. In fact, patients looking for in-office whitening should expect to pay a minimum of $650 with costs going up from there.
In-office teeth whitening treatments should always be handled by a professional.
There is a certain finesse that needs to be had when your dentist is performing a professional whitening treatment so that injury to the gums is avoided. A typical in-office whitening service will follow these general steps in your whitening process:
- Before starting, the dentist will record the current shade of your teeth.
- Your teeth will be polished with pumice to remove any surface plaque.
- Your mouth will be isolated with gauze to keep the teeth dry. Refractors may be needed to keep your tongue, lips, and cheeks clear of the whitening solution.
- A barrier is placed along the gum lines to protect it from exposure to the solution.
- The teeth are coated on the front surface with the whitening solution.
- Once applied, the solution would be left on the teeth for 30 to 60 minutes and may need to be reapplied occasionally depending on the brand.
- Once the maximum amount of time has been reached, the teeth would then be rinsed, and a fluoride application may be recommended by your dental health professional.
- Additional visits may need to be scheduled to do the treatment again until the patient is satisfied with his or her shade of white.
Avoid eating or drinking pigmented foods for at least 24-hours post-whitening.
Unless you want to toss your money down the drain, you need to give your teeth time before grabbing a food item that will stain them. Avoid coffee, tea, candies, red wine, and tomato juice, just to name a few. We highly suggest any smoking or tobacco use be avoided as well to preserve the treatment.
Alternative Methods to Teeth Whitening
If you find in-office treatments to be too costly for your budget, look to other more affordable methods. The Complete Dentistry of Orland Park can offer suggestions and guidance on both over-the-counter and at-home teeth whitening kits that can be used as an alternative tooth whitening option.
However, never forget that professional teeth whitening will always be the best method!
