There are many reasons a person may experience stained or yellowed teeth over a lifetime. While at-home kits and toothpastes can help, professional teeth bleaching offers more dramatic and thorough results. Those with good dental health may be good candidates for this type of treatment.
The teeth bleaching process
To begin, a dentist will help the patient choose a shade that works well with their natural appearance and characteristics. This allows people to experience whiter, brighter teeth without abnormal-looking results. Before bleaching begins, the dentist may need to clean the teeth to remove any food particles or plaque that could interfere with the treatment. Once the teeth are clean, retractors are used to keep the lips and cheeks away from the teeth. Gauze pads are also placed strategically to control saliva flow and to keep tooth surfaces dry during the process.
After preparations are complete, a whitening gel is used to bleach the teeth. This gel is made from a type of peroxide that is absorbed by the teeth and helps dissolve tough stains. LED lighting may also be used to help expedite this process. The light encourages the chemical reactions to occur faster, which means whiter teeth and better results. The peroxide gel is only left on for about 20 or 30 minutes before it is removed, but the peroxide absorbed by the enamel can continue to whiten teeth for up to 24 hours.
The benefits of professional teeth bleaching
The peroxide gels used by dentists contain a much higher concentration of ingredients than those used in at-home kits. Therefore, the results of professional treatments tend to be several shades whiter and are achieved in less time. Dentists also have the tools to apply bleaching gels with skill and precision that help keep the solution off the mouth's soft tissues. Peroxide can cause sensitivity, irritation, and discoloration if left on the gums, lips, or cheeks for too long.
It is important to note that not everyone is a good candidate for teeth bleaching. Those who should avoid this treatment include:
- Pregnant women
- Children under the age of 16
- Those with existing teeth sensitivity issues
- Those with untreated or chronic gum disease or tooth decay
- Patients with gray tooth discolorations, which do not respond to peroxide treatments
It is important to consult with a dental professional before trying any type of whitening treatment, even at home. A dentist can help guide patients toward the right type of smile restoration to enjoy whiter teeth without any unnecessary risks.
Conclusion
Professional teeth bleaching is an effective way to combat the unsightly discolorations of stained teeth. In just one treatment, patients can enjoy beautiful and natural-looking results thanks to the stain-removing power of peroxide. Still, some people may not respond well to professional whitening sessions. Schedule an appointment with a dentist today to find out if this type of treatment is right for you.
Request an appointment here: https://www.aboutdentalcare.com or call About Dental Care at (435) 359-0147 for an appointment in our St. George office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Bleaching in St. George, UT.
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