A bright and healthy smile is something that many people aspire to have. However, despite regular brushing and flossing, our teeth can become stained or discolored over time due to various factors such as age, smoking, certain medications, and dietary habits. Fortunately, professional teeth whitening can help remove stubborn stains and restore the natural color of teeth.
Learn what to expect when you undergo a teeth whitening treatment at our Woodland Hills, CA, dental office. Contact Dr. John Chaves, our Woodland Hills cosmetic dentist, today by calling 818-491-7294 to set up your cosmetic dentistry consultation.
The day before your teeth whitening appointment is a crucial time for preparation. Things you can do to make sure you’re ready for your procedure include:
The day of your teeth whitening appointment can be exciting, but it’s important to take a few precautions to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here are some things to keep in mind:
By following these tips, you can help ensure a successful teeth whitening treatment and achieve a brighter, more confident smile.
In-office teeth whitening, also known as chairside tooth bleaching, is a quick and effective way to brighten your smile. During in-office treatments, our dentist applies a high-concentration bleaching gel to your teeth and uses a special light or laser to activate the gel. The process typically takes about an hour, and the results can be seen immediately.
One of the benefits of in-office teeth whitening is that it’s performed by a dentist like Dr. Chaves who can monitor the progress and ensure that the treatment is safe and effective. Additionally, the high concentration of the bleaching agent or gel used in this process means that it can remove even the most stubborn stains.
At-home teeth whitening is another popular option for those who want to whiten their teeth. This process involves whitening teeth using custom-made take-home trays that are filled with a lower concentration of bleaching gel and worn for a specified amount of time each day. The length of treatment can vary depending on the severity of the stains and the desired level of whitening.
One of the advantages of at-home teeth whitening is that it’s more convenient and cost-effective than in-office whitening. However, it may take longer to see results and may not be as effective as an in-office treatment for stubborn stains.
The ZOOM! whitening process starts with Dr. Chaves or one of his dental assistants carefully applying a liquid dam around your gums to protect them from the whitening gel. They’ll also place gauze or another protective barrier in your mouth to keep your lips and cheeks from coming into contact with the gel.
Next, the whitening gel is applied to your teeth in a thin layer. This gel contains hydrogen peroxide or another whitening agent.
A specialized Zoom! UV light is then positioned inches from your teeth and turned on. The light works by accelerating the whitening process initiated by the gel, breaking down stains and discoloration on your tooth enamel.
The light and gel combination is applied in 15-minute intervals, with fresh gel applied after each interval for maximum whitening. Most patients receive three to four of these 15-minute cycles.
After the final whitening cycle, your teeth are rinsed thoroughly and a fluoride treatment is usually applied to reduce sensitivity. The total treatment time is around an hour.
Most patients report their teeth looking several shades whiter immediately after the Zoom! treatment when performed by an experienced provider like Dr. Chaves.
Like any dental procedure, teeth whitening can cause some side effects. The most common side effects include increased tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, and mild discomfort. These side effects are usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or desensitizing toothpaste.
In rare cases, teeth whitening can cause more severe side effects such as chemical burns or damage to the tooth enamel. This is why it’s important to have teeth whitening done under the supervision of an experienced dentist.
After teeth whitening, you’ll want to make sure to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent new stains from forming. Consider the following:
Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks: Acidic foods and beverages, like citrus fruits and sodas, can weaken enamel, causing possible tooth staining. Consume them in moderation.
Teeth whitening is generally not painful, but some people may experience sensitivity or discomfort during or after the procedure. Your dental professional can recommend ways to manage any discomfort you may experience.
Teeth whitening, when done correctly, should not damage your enamel. However, overuse or misuse of teeth whitening products can lead to damage to the tooth enamel and cause sensitivity or even tooth decay.
In general, most people can get their teeth whitened. However, teeth whitening treatments may not be recommended for individuals with certain dental conditions, such as cavities or gum disease. Consult with a dental professional before undergoing any teeth whitening procedure.
On average, most patients can expect professional teeth whitening to last between 30 and 60 minutes. The length of your treatment will depend on your dentist, how many shades you want to lighten your smile to, and other factors.
Ready to learn more about our cosmetic treatments? If you’re interested in getting professional teeth whitening, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our dental professionals to learn more about the options available to you. A brighter smile can be just a few steps away!
Contact our Woodland Hills, CA, dentist’s office today by calling 818-491-7294. Our teeth whitening treatments can be customized to meet your smile goals!
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