9 Helpful Bits of Information About Teeth Whitening That You Should Know

Are you looking to improve the look of your teeth instantly? In this case, professional teeth whitening is definitely a treatment to consider, according to a trusted cosmetic dentist in Fort Lauderdale. After a single session, there will be a noticeable improvement in the look of your teeth.

However, if you are thinking of getting it for the first time, it's important to understand the impact this treatment can have, as well as its limitations and a few other issues to factor in. Here are nine facts about teeth whitening for anybody who will be getting the treatment for the first time.

1. There are different whitening systems to choose from.

A dentist in Fort Lauderdale says that there are different teeth whitening systems that dental offices use. Therefore, it's essential to inquire about the systems available in the clinic.

Most professional teeth whitening programs can only target extrinsic stains or discoloration, or stains that are only on the surface of the teeth. However, newer systems can now target extrinsic as well as intrinsic stains. So, if you have teeth with intrinsic discoloration due to an illness or a mouth injury, it's best to find a dental clinic that uses a system that can work for both kinds of stains.

It's vital to include as well that there are professional teeth whitening systems offering other benefits such as tooth decay prevention, shinier and smoother teeth enamel, protection against sensitivity, and others. Factor in these additional benefits, especially if you have certain oral health issues.

2. The most common teeth whitening treatment can make your teeth two times lighter.

The most common teeth whitening treatment that you can get usually promises a tooth color that's two shades lighter than the original hue of your own teeth upon coming into the clinic. This is already a massive improvement because it creates a healthier-looking set of teeth that also does not look too unnatural.

But if you are looking for a dramatic difference, it’s also possible to achieve it in a single but longer whitening procedure.

3. The result of professional teeth whitening can last for years.

If you practice good dental hygiene, the results of a single teeth whitening treatment can last you two years, with very minimal fading. Therefore, it truly is a treatment that is worth your money. However, if you can't stop smoking or can’t kick your coffee- or wine-drinking habit, dentists advise to get touch-ups done once a year.

4. Not everybody is a good candidate for cosmetic teeth whitening.

Although teeth whitening treatments are among the quickest and most effective dental solutions available, they're not necessarily meant for everybody. Dental professionals advise those with severe tooth sensitivity or thin enamel and periodontal issues to have a thorough consultation with them first to understand the drawbacks or risks the treatment may present. Typically, for patients with such issues, a teeth whitening treatment may exacerbate their oral health concerns.

Meanwhile, people with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or bruxism are likewise not easily cleared for this treatment because of the strain placed on the jaws during the procedure.

However, do not be too dismayed if you have these conditions. Other dental solutions can provide you with better, whiter-looking teeth, such as the application of porcelain veneers or Lumineers.

5. After-treatment discomfort is common.

There is a bit of discomfort after getting the treatment. If you look through a microscope, human teeth look like sponges with a lot of little holes. These holes or pores become more open after a teeth whitening session. Therefore, you can expect some sensitivity after getting the treatment.

Dentists offer a variety of after-care solutions, such as keeping the mouth closed to prevent contact with cold air, sipping through a straw when drinking, and others. In some cases, the discomfort can be quite severe. For these, dentists can recommend pain relievers or advise patients to use special desensitizing toothpaste to prevent tooth sensitivity a week before the treatment.

6. Location affects the price of teeth whitening treatments.

Studies reveal that there can be significant differences in the prices of dental services, particularly cosmetic dentistry treatments, based on location. Naturally, you can expect lower rates in lower-income localities than in wealthier locations. This is why many frugal households don't mind driving a considerable distance for their children's dentistry or cosmetic treatments to get a better rate for the dental work they require.

7. The 24 to 48 hours after the teeth whitening session are critical.

After-care is vital in ensuring the best and long-lasting results of professional dental whitening treatments. Thus, for the next 24 to 48 hours, follow all your dentist's instructions regarding oral care. These instructions usually include avoiding highly pigmented food, keeping the mouth closed and not breathing through the mouth, avoiding cold and hot foods and beverages, and rinsing the mouth more than brushing, to cite a few.

Being careful during this given period of time will not just ensure the results of the treatment but also protect you from extreme sensitivity of teeth to temperature changes.

8. Pre-treatment care is certainly a must.

Again, for the best results, taking extra care is undoubtedly helpful. Therefore, do not overlook the value of pre-treatment care, such as an oral prophylaxis a week or so before the treatment. Dental cleaning will get rid of tartar and other embedded substances in the gums and teeth. This will also determine how healthy your mouth is.

If your dentist finds that you have periodontal or gum disease, you will have to undergo treatment for this first. By doing so, you can avoid potential complications from professional teeth whitening.

9. In-office and home teeth whitening systems can yield the same pearly white teeth results.

Lastly, dentists point out that home teeth whitening systems are usually as effective as in-office treatments. You can achieve your ideal bright hue with a home teeth whitening kit as well, but it requires patience. Home kits show results after continuous use for at least once. Meanwhile, in-office treatments can produce your target teeth color in a single session.

These are the nine facts that you should know before getting your first teeth whitening treatment. With these, you'll have a more realistic expectation and be able to prepare yourself appropriately for this cosmetic dental procedure.