Teeth Whitening Treatments – The Most Common Concerns of Patients

Teeth whitening can greatly improve the quality and appearance of your smile. You may have a number of concerns about how it can improve the quality of your smile, however. If so, the following is for you. Below we will discuss the most common concerns that patients have about teeth whitening.

As we age, our teeth naturally turn a more dingy, lack-luster color as part of the natural aging process. Once you have had and passed a normal screening, you have several options open to you in restoring that bright, white smile. Your options can range from an abrasive toothpaste to a gel soak, and even laser whitening. I can recommend several good abrasive toothpastes over the counter. These tend to literally scrub your teeth to a whiter and brighter color, but do remember that “abrasive” is the keyword.

Another choice is a special gel your cosmetic dentist can mix just for you. You can take this home and do this procedure in the comfort of your own surroundings. It’s a strong peroxide gel mix that bubbles away the dingy stains, and restores your naturally white color. Some people used to call this “bleaching”, but it’s not really that at all. This is accomplished within a form-fitted mouth piece and takes about forty-five minutes a day for about a week.

Another cosmetic dentistry procedure which is quick, easy, painless, and immediate is called laser light whitening. After your dentist cleans your teeth and applies a special gel, you have a special bright bluish-white light directed at the gel on your teeth. Many of my patients prefer this method because it only takes about an hour or so to see dramatic results. Of course, the cost is a wee higher for the treatment, but it’s still very affordable.

Your cosmetic dentist will perform a thorough cleaning and do all work needed prior to any whitening procedure. At this time, you may or may not be instructed to take prophylactic antibiotics. When it comes time for you to employ the whitening procedure, it should not have any impact on your heart. Even the laser teeth whitening method is very safe for people who live with chronic health conditions, because it’s only directed to the outside of your teeth. Please be sure and tell your oral health care provider about any concerns you may have, no matter how frivolous they may seem to you. Good communication is a must between you and your cosmetic dentist.