White teeth have long been an attribute of facial radiance and general appeal. When someone grins, their dentition is on display for all to see. Teeth with discolouration in any way can be a turnoff for many and can muffle an otherwise beautiful smile. Therefore, the need for teeth whitening treatments is pretty vital.
Teeth stains can take away your ability to smile with complete confidence. This reason is why dentists recommend whitening your teeth if you want to appear more attractive.
Many things can cause your teeth to discolour. It could be genetic or self-inflicted. Regardless, you can opt for teeth whitening to improve your dentition appearance.
Meanwhile, we understand you may have questions regarding what dentition bleaching entails. That’s why we have a compilation of dos and don’ts of teeth whitening.
Alongside, we’ll introduce you to the procedures of teeth treatment. We’ll also answer all the questions you have about teeth whitening treatments.
Teeth Whitening Treatment Procedures
In contrast to other dental procedures, teeth whitening treatment is quick and painless. And the most common way to whiten teeth is through a professional bleaching procedure.
A dentist is in the best position to determine whether or not you’re a good candidate for the procedure. Once your suitability is in check, your procedure will begin.
Initially, there’ll be a placement of rubber shields in your mouth to protect your gum. Some dentists may use a sort of gel for this protective measure.
Afterwards, the dentist applies a whitening product to your teeth using a custom-made mouthguard-like tray. In most cases, carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide serve as the ‘core ingredient’ in the product.
When this core ingredient breaks down, oxygen penetrates the enamel of the teeth, resulting in whiter teeth colour.
You may want to know how long this procedure takes. Three to four weeks is the typical time frame for completing teeth whitening treatments.
Generally, you’ll need to visit the teeth whitening dentist about two to three times in Ontario. At the first appointment, your dentist will take impressions for a mouthguard. Eventually, you’ll need to continue the treatment at home after your dentist flags it off.
As a result, you’ll need to use the whitening product for 30 minutes to an hour. Depending on your dentist’s directions, this dosage will be for about two to four weeks.
The Don’ts of Teeth Whitening Treatments
Whitening your teeth may stem from numerous reasons. But, in most cases, it’s because you’re looking for that “Hollywood smile.” Regardless, some factors can ensure you get the best teeth whitening results.
It’s okay to nurse doubts when you’ve never gone through the teeth whitening treatments before. But with info about the dos and don’ts of teeth whitening, you can go into your procedure fully prepared.
Firstly, let’s examine the “Don’ts.”
DO NOT Use Trays That Are Too Small For You
The whitening gel can get on your gums if at-home trays don’t fit your teeth properly. Therefore, it’s advisable to get fitting whitening trays from your dentist. This suggestion ensures no leak, and you can get excellent outcomes.
DO NOT Whiten Your Teeth Always
You may get upset if you don’t derive the results you seek from teeth whitening treatments in your quest for a whiter smile.
This frustration can push you to whiten your teeth more regularly. Unfortunately, frequent teeth whitening can harm your gums, wear down your enamel, and increase your risk of developing dental sensitivity. You should consult with your dentist and follow their recommendations.
DO NOT Play a Ross Geller
Pulling a Ross Geller stunt means using too much gel or leaving it on for an extended period. Ross Geller is a character in the American sitcom “Friends.” And he was the subject of a teeth whitening catastrophe after overusing the teeth whitening gel.
Using more than the amount of gel your dentist recommends can cause damage to your teeth and gums. Likewise, it may be dangerous when you don’t remove the gel after a long time. So it’s best to heed your teeth whitening treatment directions.
DO NOT Consume an Excessive Amount of Beverages that Stain or are Acidic.
If you drink a lot of dark beverages, too, you may end up with stained teeth. Cola, coffee, red wine, and other dark-coloured drinkables fall under this category.
Therefore, if you must take them, ensure you rinse your mouth and wash your teeth after drinking these beverages. This way, you avoid stains on your teeth before and after teeth whitening.
Acidic drinks like soda necessitate regular brushing and flossing not only because they can cause teeth discolouration. But also because they can damage your teeth’s enamel.
DO NOT Leave Whitening Gel or Strips out in the Sun or a Hot Car.
Light and heat can degrade the effectiveness of whitening gels’ volatile components.
If you’re using whitening products, store them in a cabinet or someplace cool and shady. If you’re not using them right away, store them in the refrigerator.
DO NOT Consume Too Much Staining or Acidic Foods
Some foods can stain your teeth, just like there are beverages that do. Such staining foods include dark chocolates and berries. In addition, acidic foods, just like acidic drinks, can deteriorate your teeth’s enamel.
This precaution doesn’t mean you should abstain from these foods. But ensure you rinse/brush your teeth immediately after having them.
DO NOT Smoke Tobacco
Smoking is another cause of teeth discoloration. In addition, teeth yellowing is a common side effect of tobacco smoking, especially if you’re a frequent user.
Tobacco is a known cause of teeth stains, so it’s best to avoid it. This action is one you should not do, especially after teeth whitening.
Related Article: 5 Different Types of Tooth Restoration
The Dos of Teeth Whitening Treatments
There are essential things you should do during the teeth whitening treatment. They include the following:
DO Maintain a Clean Mouth
Teeth whitening will only work if your teeth are clean. Dental whiteners may not work well if your teeth are food or debris stuffed.
Therefore, keep up with regular dental checkups, floss, brush, and use mouthwashes frequently. Teeth whitening will be less constantly essential if you practice good oral hygiene.
DO Use a Light Bleach Sparingly
We all desire the Disneyworld character smile. But teeth whitening procedures may be dangerous if you overdo them.
Whitening your teeth too much can weaken your tooth’s enamel, causing it to erode. Therefore, reduce the number of teeth-whitening treatments you use by practicing good oral hygiene. Additionally, limit the amount of staining food and drink that you consume.
DO Go to a Dentist and have Your Teeth Whitened by an Expert
At first, professional teeth whitening treatments may seem more expensive. But the results are more dramatic and last longer than over-the-counter options.
Over-the-counter treatments aren’t going to afford you the same lasting effect as professional care. In fact, over-the-counter medicines may cost you more money in the long run if you don’t hire a professional for help.
DO Keep an Eye Out For Different Types of Stains
Different stains necessitate different treatment methods. For example, an extrinsic tooth stain results from drink, food, or tobacco use on a tooth’s enamel exterior.
The above reason is why you shouldn’t take a drink like soda after teeth whitening.
Age-related discolorations, such as those caused by hereditary illnesses or environmental factors such as fluorosis, can leave stains on teeth inside. It can take up to 6 months to see any teeth whitening results with these stains.
DO Nurse Pragmatic Expectations
Teeth whitening can brighten your teeth. However, bleach can only lighten your teeth by a few shades. So the thrill you’ll feel after your whitening treatment will be unique to you.
Each person’s situation is different, and the outcomes will vary depending on how discoloured your teeth were initially.
Please note that the gel doesn’t affect crowns, dentures, veneers, and fillings.
DO Expect a Bit Of Discomfort if your Teeth are Particularly Sensitive
After the initial whitening session, your teeth may hurt or become sensitive to cold and hot beverages.
Within a day, the discomfort is usually gone. However, you can take a day or two off from treatment if it persists.
DO Speak With Your Dentist About Your Dental Health
Using overly aggressive at-home whitening products can wear down the enamel on your teeth. And this degradation can lead to discoloration and more tooth decay.
Therefore, book an appointment with your dentist so they can examine your teeth and make a recommendation about the best treatment route for you.
Teeth whitening isn’t for everyone, as it can cause tooth sensitivity. Additionally, it can harm your teeth and gums if you undergo the procedure too frequently.
Therefore, it’s your dentist’s job to tell you how much treatment gel to use. Additionally, they’ll let you know what to expect and what options are open to you in terms of treatment.
FAQs for Teeth Whitening Treatments
Below are answers to questions about teeth whitening treatments:
How Long Does Whitening Take to Complete?
Your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth to ensure your suitability for the procedure. Afterward, it usually takes around an hour to complete this process.
How Much Does it Cost to Have Your Teeth Whitened?
Charges will differ from one doctor to another and one country to another. Professional bleaching is less expensive than laser or power whitening. Before beginning any treatment, you should obtain a quote/estimate of the costs.
Will My Teeth Stay White Long After Whitening?
According to some studies, bleaching’s effects can last for up to three years. There’s a wide range of opinions about this, though.
However, if you smoke or consume foods or beverages that can stain your teeth, the effect will be shorter-lived. Be sure to get the input of your dental team before you begin any treatment.
What are the Possible Negative Effects of this Medication?
Some patients may experience increased sensitivity to cold temperatures in their teeth during or after the procedure. As a result, some people have a sore throat, white spots along their gum line, or gum pain.
These side effects normally subside when the treatment is over in a few days. But you should see your dentist if any of these symptoms persist.
When is it Possible that Teeth Whitening Won’t Be Effective?
You can only lighten the colour of your teeth via teeth whitening. Also, it won’t work on artificial teeth. This treatment won’t affect a denture, crown, or veneer.
How Do I Keep My Teeth in Good Condition After Whitening Treatments?
Reduce the amount of stain-causing foods and beverages you consume to help keep your teeth white. Also, remember that quitting smoking can help keep your dentition looking newer.
- Rehydrate your teeth after teeth whitening procedure.
- Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice a day.
- Reduce the number of sugary meals and beverages you consume regularly.
- Ensure that you see your dentist frequently.
- Don’t drink lemonade after teeth whitening.
- Reduce coffee intake after teeth whitening.
Related Article: Teeth Whitening At The Dentist: Procedure, What to Expect, How it Works
Summary
After your eyes, your teeth are the second thing people notice about you. Little wonder the subscription to dental treatments such as teeth whitening is on the rise. Therefore, it’s great you know the details of teeth whitening procedures.
It’s impossible to deny the allure of sparkling white teeth. This assertion is why selecting your dentist and what kind of perfect treatment is crucial. But you don’t have to stress about that.
We are a dental clinic here in Ontario. And our teeth whitening services at Osmin Denture offer a guarantee for success.
We not only have professional dentists to attend to you. But we also work with the highest ethics.
Contact us today to start your journey to a perfect smile.