If you’re considering whitening your teeth, there are a few things you should ask your dentist first. Teeth whitening treatments can be effective, but it’s essential to understand what they involve before making a decision.
Some questions you should ask your dentist about teeth whitening include:
Are There Risks?
There are risks associated with teeth whitening treatments, including injury and uneven results, but only when done in an amateurish, DIY method. If the bleaching agent directly comes into contact with your gums or other soft tissue in your oral cavity, you could risk getting chemically burned. That’s why it’s best to consult a professional dentist before using any whitening product.
Some patients notice that their teeth and gums feel more sensitive for a few days after teeth whitening, especially during in-chair treatments. Your dentist can advise you on possible side effects and what to expect.
Pregnant women and new mothers should avoid teeth whitening, as chemicals from the treatment can enter the placenta and breast milk.
How Noticeable Are the Results?
Before booking a teeth whitening session, you must have realistic expectations by talking to your dentist since they can accurately determine how much your teeth are likely to change.
Not everyone’s teeth will respond to whitening treatments in the same way. And even if a treatment is effective, it might not make your teeth as white as you want. Teeth whitening can make a tooth’s color several shades lighter, but it’s more difficult to make severely stained or discolored teeth white.
How Should the Appointment Scheduling Go?
If you want your teeth to be the whitest and brightest for a special event, ensure you start the whitening process early. Home whitening kits using gels can take up to two weeks to work, while whitening toothpaste can take up to four weeks. Professional teeth whitening is usually completed in one appointment, so choose the latter option.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Yes, it is. Teeth whitening is non-invasive and doesn’t involve surgery, but there can still be risks if instructions and regulations aren’t followed.
For instance, over-the-counter teeth whitening products sold in retail outlets may contain a maximum of 6 percent hydrogen peroxide or 18 percent carbamide peroxide, as higher concentrations can result in chemical burns. Therefore, higher-strength products may only be used by a registered dental professional. In those cases, teeth whitening is only safe if done by your dentist.
Why Are My Teeth Discolored?
Your dentist can help you understand what is causing your teeth to become discolored and whether a whitening treatment will be effective.
For instance, not all types of stains and discoloration can be treated with teeth whitening. Whitening treatments are usually more effective on teeth that are yellow than on teeth that are gray, brown, or black.
If your teeth have been discolored by food, drinks, tobacco, or medication, your dentist might recommend avoiding these to maintain the results of your whitening treatment.
And, of course, if an underlying dental issue causes the discoloration, this will need to be addressed first.
Whiten Teeth Fast at Comfort Dental
Need professional teeth whitening from a dentist in Framingham, MA? Contact Comfort Dental today! We’ve served families in the area for years with trusted family and cosmetic dentistry services. Learn more through our website!
