Professional Tooth Whitening - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you have stained teeth or yellowed teeth, it is likely that you would benefit from teeth whitening of some sort. Yet, with so many options out there, it may be hard to figure out which option if best for you. This collection of frequently asked questions will help address some of your concerns.

What is teeth whitening, and how is it performed?

Tooth whitening is a procedure designed to brighten the teeth by applying bleach type chemicals that break down stains that cause discoloration. There are a number of whitening options available. These include in-office whitening systems, or at-home whitening systems. The cost and the severity of tooth discoloration may influence which option you select.

I understand that chemicals and lasers are involved in teeth whitening, is it really safe?

The chemicals used in the teeth whitening procedures are completely safe when used properly, and in the manner designed. If the chemicals are abused they may produce unsafe or unhealthy side effects. Lasers used in the teeth whitening procedure are used as a catalyst which accelerates the chemical process, and produces faster whitening.

Is teeth whitening a permanent procedure?

Teeth whitening is not a permanent procedure because a lot of the food and drink you consume stains teeth. The initial whitening will produce the most brilliant shade, and then it will stabilize after a couple of weeks. Depending on your habits eating habits, and their effect on your teeth, it is a good idea to have the procedure redone at least one a year.

What are the teeth whitening options available to me?

The professional teeth whitening options include having the procedure performed in the dentist’s office, or performing the procedure yourself at home. The major differences are in the cost involved, and the speed of results. In office procedures are the most costly, but have the quickest results. This is because lasers are used to accelerate whitening. The at-home procedure is less expensive, but will take a number of applications to get the same results.

How many visits to the dentist’s office will be required to get the best whitening results?

That all depends, the more severe the level of discoloration of your teeth and if you suffer from any sensitivity of the gums, the more visits will be required. A severe level of discoloration may require a number of treatments and applications to get satisfactory whitening results. If you suffer from gum sensitivity, more visits may be required so that your gum sensitivity is not aggravated during the procedure.

If you have any questions about tooth whitening as well as porcelain veneers, dental crowns, dental implants, as more, it is important for you to visit our cosmetic dentistry office serving Wilkes-Barre and Scranton, Pennsylvania.