Teeth whitening uses bleaching agents to improve the appearance of teeth. The stains on your teeth can be lightened by several shades, depending on the bleaching agent used. At Frank N. Johnson, D.D.S., P.A, your dentist in Topeka, KS offer at-home whitening kits for use.

The at-home whitening kits use custom-fitted trays so that you get a proper fit. The whitening gel is inserted into the tray, which you then wear over your teeth. In some cases, the trays can be worn overnight. Over-the-counter whitening kits are less powerful and may not work as well.

What Causes Tooth Discoloration?

Tooth discoloration can be caused by many things, including poor oral hygiene, tooth decay, or genetics. Even if someone brushes their teeth regularly, they can still develop stains. Particular food and beverages, such as coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and tomato sauce, can stain teeth. Tobacco products, such as cigarettes or chewing tobacco, can also stain the teeth. Highly pigmented foods, such as curry, mustard, or soy sauce, can also cause tooth discoloration.

What Happens During the Procedure?

During a professional at-home teeth whitening procedure, several steps are typically involved:

Consultation

The process usually begins with a consultation with a dentist or dental professional to determine if at-home teeth whitening is suitable for you. They will examine your teeth, discuss your dental history, and assess the degree of staining or discoloration.

Custom Tray Creation

If at-home teeth whitening is deemed appropriate, your dentist will take impressions or digital scans of your teeth to create custom-fitted whitening trays. These trays are typically made from a flexible plastic material and are designed to fit snugly over your teeth.

Whitening Gel Application

Once the custom trays are ready, your dentist will provide you with a professional-grade whitening gel containing a bleaching agent, usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. They will instruct you on how to apply a small amount of the whitening gel into each tray and how to insert the trays properly onto your teeth.

At-Home Treatment Regimen

You'll be given specific instructions on how long to wear the whitening trays each day and for how many days or weeks the treatment should be continued. Typically, you'll wear the trays for a specified amount of time each day, such as 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the concentration of the whitening gel and the sensitivity of your teeth.

Follow-Up

Your dentist may schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and address any concerns or questions you may have during the whitening process.

It's essential to follow your dentist's instructions carefully to achieve optimal results while minimizing any potential side effects, such as tooth sensitivity or gum irritation. Professional at-home teeth whitening can be an effective and convenient option for brightening your smile under the guidance of a dental professional.

Professional vs. Over-The-Counter Products

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products are not as strong as professional options. They can only remove surface stains and will not lighten tooth color. Professional teeth whitening treatments are more potent than at-home whitening kits. They can remove discoloration from deep within the tooth enamel. They can also brighten tooth color by several shades.

The Benefits of Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening offers several benefits beyond just enhancing the appearance of your smile:

Improved Confidence

A brighter smile can boost your self-esteem and confidence. Feeling good about your smile can have a positive impact on your social interactions and overall well-being.

Enhanced Appearance

Whiter teeth can make you look younger and more attractive. They can also complement other facial features, creating a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Professional Image

In professional settings, a bright smile can leave a positive impression on colleagues, clients, and employers. It can convey confidence, health, and attention to personal grooming.

Beneficial for Special Occasions

Teeth whitening can be particularly beneficial before special events like weddings, graduations, or job interviews. A radiant smile can make you feel more confident and camera-ready for important moments.

Non-Invasive

Compared to other cosmetic dental procedures, such as veneers or crowns, teeth whitening is minimally invasive. It doesn't require altering the structure of your teeth and can often be completed in a relatively short amount of time.

Affordable

Teeth whitening is a cost-effective way to enhance your smile compared to more extensive cosmetic dental treatments. There are various options available, including professional at-home kits and in-office treatments, to fit different budgets.

Customizable

Professional teeth whitening treatments can be tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Your dentist can adjust the concentration of the whitening gel and the duration of treatment to achieve the desired level of whitening while minimizing sensitivity.

Maintains Oral Health

Teeth whitening treatments often involve professional dental supervision, which can encourage better oral hygiene habits. Regular dental visits for whitening touch-ups can also help maintain oral health by allowing dentists to monitor the condition of your teeth and gums.

Overall, teeth whitening can have both aesthetic and psychological benefits, helping you achieve a brighter, more confident smile that positively impacts various aspects of your life.

Teeth whitening is a safe method of lightening the color of your teeth. To discover more about the perks of teeth whitening, visit Frank N. Johnson, D.D.S., P.A. at 1244 SW Oakley Ave, Topeka, KS 66604, or call (785) 357-7706.