Professional Teeth Whitening | Cosmetic Dentistry

Professional teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that can help to brighten and whiten the appearance of your teeth. Whether you have yellowed or discolored teeth due to age, certain medications, or lifestyle habits like smoking, professional teeth whitening can give you a brighter and more youthful smile.

In this article, we will explore the various types of professional teeth whitening treatments available, their benefits and risks, and what you can expect during an in-office whitening appointment. We will also discuss the cost of in-office whitening and how to maintain the results of teeth whitening. If you are considering professional teeth whitening, this article will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

What is professional teeth whitening?

Professional teeth whitening is a popular and effective way to improve the appearance of your smile. It involves the use of special bleaching agents to lighten the color of your teeth, making them look brighter and more youthful. During zoom teeth whitening, the dentist uses a whitening gel made of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to bleach your teeth. The laser teeth whitening process may also include using light energy to remove surface stains from your teeth and whiten teeth without causing any damage. In-office professional whitening is one of the most effective ways to brighten your smile – it’s definitely more effective than a whitening toothpaste or other at-home teeth whitening kits.

Benefits of professional tooth whitening

There are several benefits to professional teeth whitening, including:

1. Improved self-esteem: A brighter, more attractive smile can boost your confidence and make you feel better about yourself.
2. Enhanced appearance: White teeth are often seen as a sign of good hygiene and health, and can improve your overall appearance.
3. Career advancement: A bright, white smile may be perceived as more professional and can potentially enhance your career prospects.

Types of teeth whitening treatments

There are several types of professional teeth whitening treatments available, including in-office treatments and at-home kits.

• In-office treatments, also known as chairside bleaching, are performed by a dental professional in a dental office. These treatments typically use higher concentrations of bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, and can achieve more dramatic results in a shorter amount of time.
• At-home teeth whitening kits involve the use of a lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide teeth whitening gel and are applied by the individual at home. These kits typically include a bleaching gel, a mouth tray, and instructions for use. At-home kits are generally less expensive than in-office treatments and can be done on your own schedule, but they may take longer to achieve desired results.

How long does in-office whitening last?

The length of time that professional teeth whitening results last will depend on a variety of factors, including the type of treatment used, the individual’s oral hygiene habits, and their consumption of certain foods and beverages.

In-office whitening typically produce longer-lasting results than at-home kits, as the higher concentration of bleaching agents used in these treatments can penetrate the teeth more deeply. Results from in-office treatments can last for several months to a year or more, depending on the individual.

At-home kits may produce results that last for a shorter period of time, often several months. It’s important to note that professional tooth whitening is not a permanent solution, and the results will gradually fade over time. Touch-up laser teeth whitening treatments may be necessary to maintain the desired level of whiteness.

What to expect during an in-office whitening process

During an in-office teeth whitening treatment, the dental professional will begin by protecting the gums and surrounding tissues with a rubber dam or other protective barrier. They will then apply the bleaching agent to the surface of the teeth and may use a special light or laser to enhance the whitening process. The entire treatment typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half.

After the treatment, the dental professional will remove the protective barrier and assess the results. They may make any necessary adjustments and provide instructions for at-home care, including recommendations for a teeth-whitening toothpaste or other products to help maintain the results.

It’s important to follow the instructions provided by the dental professional and to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, to help maintain the results of the treatment. Some people may need to have touch-up treatments or use at-home kits to help maintain their desired level of whiteness.

Risks and considerations of professional tooth whitening

There are a few risks and considerations to be aware of when it comes to professional tooth whitening:

1. Sensitivity: Some people may experience temporary sensitivity or discomfort during or after the teeth whitening process. This is usually due to the bleaching agents used and should resolve on its own within a few days.
2. Uneven results: It’s possible that the bleaching agent may not evenly whiten all of the teeth, resulting in an uneven appearance.
3. Damage to tooth enamel: If the bleaching agent is applied too aggressively or left on the teeth for too long, it can damage the tooth enamel. This can lead to sensitivity and other problems.
4. Allergic reactions: Some people may have an allergic reaction to the bleaching agents used in professional tooth whitening treatments. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include redness, itching, and swelling of the gums and lips.
5. Ineffective results: In some cases, professional teeth whitening may not produce the desired results or may only produce a very slight improvement in the color of the teeth. This can be due to a variety of factors, including the severity of the discoloration, the type of bleaching agent used, and the individual’s oral hygiene habits.

It’s important to discuss any concerns or potential risks with a dental professional before starting a professional teeth whitening treatment. They can help determine the best course of action and address any potential issues.

URBN Dental is a group of state-of-the-art dental clinics specializing in in-office whitening and laser teeth whitening with high-concentration hydrogen peroxide and other in-office whitening treatments. We can also offer custom whitening trays for at-home teeth whitening. You can find our dental clinics in Uptown Houston, Midtown Houston, Montrose, and Katy, TX. Please schedule an appointment at your nearest dental clinic for zoom teeth whitening treatment in Houston. TX.