What are Professional Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening is a process that uses a whitening solution to lighten the color of the teeth. It typically includes hydrogen or carbamide peroxide. In some cases, a laser or curing light is used to activate the peroxide. The process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. It may be necessary to repeat the procedure several times before achieving the desired shade. Some professionals also apply fluoride to the teeth to help ease sensitivity.
Pros
A professional teeth whitening treatment is an excellent choice if you want your teeth to become as white as possible without spending a lot of time and money. This procedure can produce dramatic results in an hour and it’s safer than at-home whitening treatments. The results are also long-lasting. Store-bought whitening products are less expensive but don’t always produce the same results as a professional whitening treatment.
Whiter teeth are more attractive. If you have discolored teeth, it will reduce your self-esteem. You might even hesitate to smile in front of other people, especially in social settings. Fortunately, professional teeth whitening procedures can help you improve your smile and gain confidence.
Cost
The cost of professional teeth whitening varies widely depending on the type of treatment you require and the type of staining on your teeth. The price of the procedure can be significantly less for patients with less severe staining, and it is sometimes possible to get the treatment covered by your dental insurance policy. If you are unsure whether your insurance policy covers the cost of whitening, speak to your provider and find out.
A dental bonding treatment can cost anywhere from $250 to $600 for a single tooth, depending on the amount of damage that needs to be fixed. If the dental bonding treatment is necessary to fill a cavity or repair tooth structure, your insurance provider may cover some of the costs. The cost of teeth whitening will also vary, depending on the type of service and the materials used. Generally, the higher the level of whitening, the more expensive the procedure will be.
In-office whitening
Getting your teeth whitened in a dentist’s office is an excellent way to brighten your smile and boost your confidence. Unlike at-home whitening methods, in-office whitening procedures can change your smile instantly, without the need to wait weeks to see results. Store-bought whitening products are generally less expensive but don’t always give you the results you need.
One of the major benefits of in-office teeth whitening is the safety of the procedure. The whitening gel used in this procedure is made of 40% hydrogen peroxide. This formula doesn’t require the use of an uncomfortable light and can provide significantly whiter teeth in just one appointment. Most patients are comfortable and relaxed throughout the procedure.
Custom trays
Custom trays for professional teeth whitening require a dental model to create a custom fit. The trays should fit slightly below the gumline. A tight seal is essential. They should not contain a reservoir, which wastes whitening gel and reduces the effectiveness of the whitening treatment.
Custom trays are safer than other whitening options and can help patients achieve the desired shade quickly. They can be used at home or at the dentist’s office. They are recommended by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
Inorganic stains
If you have yellow or brown teeth, professional teeth whitening can help you achieve a brighter smile. This treatment is made possible by the action of peroxides on colorless compounds, called chromophores. These compounds are formed through chemical reactions and oxidation. The peroxides then bleach the chromophores, causing them to lose their color. These chromophores are removed from the tooth’s surface during subsequent washing processes. However, inorganic ions are not affected by peroxides, and so they remain their original color.
Inorganic stains are caused by certain substances found in food and beverages. Certain medications and chemicals may also cause stains on teeth. In addition, failure to regularly brush and floss your teeth can also contribute to dental staining.
