Important Considerations Before Beginning Your Teeth Whitening

Since Teeth Whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc, prior to beginning any Teeth Whitening Treatments.  Replacement of any restorations will need to be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

What Does Professional Home Teeth Whitening Involve?

Professional home Teeth Whitening usually requires two visits to the dentist's office.  At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth from which the lab will fabricate clear plastic custom trays.

At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary.  The trays are worn with special Teeth Whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight (if you prefer) for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and your desired level of Teeth Whitening.  It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.  See the special section below on possible Teeth Whitening sensitivity which you may experience.

Once you receive your Teeth Whitening trays, you will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.

Will My Teeth Be Sensitive During The Teeth Whitening Process?

Some people experience a bit of uncomfortable sensitivity during the Teeth Whitening process.  Other's experience no sensitivity at all.  If you are one of those who tend to have some sensitivity with your teeth in general, there are some precautions you may wish to consider with your Teeth Whitening procedure.  First of all, you can start by using a special flouride sensitivity toothpaste (provided by your dentist) and use it two to three times a day for at least a couple of weeks prior to your Teeth Whitening treatment.  Also, Teeth Whitening solutions come in a selection of strengths.  For example, professional Teeth Whitening solutions are available in 10%, 15%, 20% & 35%.  If you have no sensitivities, the higher strength solution will make the Teeth Whitening process go faster.  But do not worry if you feel you need a lower strength of Teeth Whitening solution.  The lower strength solutions will whiten your teeth just as white, it will just take a bit longer.  So when deciding on your Teeth Whitening treatment, be sure to discuss these various options with your dentist or your dental hygienist before you start.

How Often Will I Need To Do A Touch-Up On My Teeth Whitening?

Teeth Whitening is not permanent.  A touch-up maybe needed every year or two.  Also, Teeth Whitening may be needed more often depending on your motivation to keep them their whitest white---especially if you smoke, or drink coffee, tea, soda or wine.

What If My Teeth Do Not Whiten As Much As I'm Expecting?

There are a number of factors which may affect the overall results of your Teeth Whitening procedure.   Sometimes, teeth have been so stained by previous dark fillings, loss of surface enamel, root canal treatments, various medical conditions, the natural aging process, etc, that no matter how much bleaching one does, the teeth will never whiten to the degree that is desired. 

If, after your Teeth Whitening treatment is completed, you are not completely satisfied with your results, you may wish to discuss the option of Custom Cosmetic Porcelean Veneers with your dentist.  Custom Cosmetic Porcelean Veneers will give you Teeth Whitening results which are a much more long lasting and enduring solution for permanant cosmetic Teeth Whitening since the shade of white you select will never stain or change color and therefore will not require regular ongoing touch ups.

Conclusion

Since a genuine smile is such an important part of one's effectiveness and expression of warmth in everyday interactions with those around them, most people feel that it is worth whatever it takes to have and maintain a bright, healty and attractive smile.

© As Edited By The SmileStudio, Inc ®