Gone are the days when you have to fret about discoloured or stained teeth; professional teeth whitening may be the answer to your concerns!
Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental treatment that can help improve the appearance of your smile. It is a safe and effective way to remove stains and discolouration from your teeth, giving you a brighter, more youthful-looking smile.
In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about teeth whitening.
What is teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment that uses bleaching agents to remove stains and discolouration from your teeth.
There are two types of teeth whitening: in-office and at-home. In-office teeth whitening is performed by a dentist and can be completed in one or two appointments. At-home teeth whitening is done using custom-fitted trays that are filled with a bleaching gel.
Why do teeth become discoloured?
There are several factors that can cause teeth to become discoloured. These include:
- Ageing: As we age, the enamel on our teeth becomes thinner, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath.
- Genetics: Some people are born with thicker enamel, which can help protect against staining.
- Diet: Certain foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine and berries, can stain your teeth over time.
- Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco can cause severe staining on your teeth.
- Medications: Some medications, such as certain antibiotics, can cause your teeth to become discoloured.
What are the benefits of teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening can offer several benefits and will ultimately depend on the desired outcome that you are seeking. Some of these benefits patients reap may include:
- Improved appearance: Teeth whitening can remove stains and discolouration, giving you a brighter, more youthful-looking smile.
- Non-invasive: Teeth whitening is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that does not require any surgery or permanent alterations to your teeth.
- Cost-effective: Teeth whitening is a relatively affordable cosmetic treatment compared to other options such as veneers or crowns.
- Quick results: Teeth whitening can provide quick and noticeable results in just one or two appointments.
Who is a good candidate for teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is generally safe for most people, but it may not be suitable for everyone. It is best to consult with your dentist to determine if teeth whitening is the right treatment for you.
Some factors that may affect your eligibility for teeth whitening include:
- Tooth sensitivity: If you have sensitive teeth or gums, teeth whitening may cause discomfort.
- Dental work: Teeth whitening may not be effective on certain types of dental work, such as fillings or crowns.
- Pregnancy: It is recommended to avoid teeth whitening during pregnancy.
- Gum disease: If you have gum disease, teeth whitening may only be recommended once the condition is treated.
What is the teeth whitening process?
The teeth whitening process can vary depending on the type of treatment you choose. In-office teeth whitening typically involves the following steps:
- Pre-treatment: Your dentist at Dentists@Labrador will examine your teeth to ensure that teeth whitening is safe and effective for you.
- Application of a protective barrier: Your dentist will apply a protective barrier to your gums to protect them from bleaching agents.
- Application of the bleaching agent: Your dentist will apply a bleaching agent to your teeth, which will be activated by a special light or laser.
- Repeat the process: The bleaching agent will be removed and reapplied several times until the desired shade is achieved.
- Post-treatment: Your dentist may apply a fluoride gel to your teeth to help reduce sensitivity.
At-home teeth whitening typically involves the following steps:
- Impressions: Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create custom-fitted trays.
- Fitting: Once your trays are ready, your dentist will ensure they fit properly.
- Application of the bleaching agent: You will be provided with a bleaching agent to apply to the trays, which you will wear for a specified amount of time each day.
- Repeat the process: You will repeat this process daily for several weeks until the desired shade is achieved.
How long does teeth whitening last?
The length of time that teeth whitening lasts can vary depending on several factors, including your diet, lifestyle habits and oral hygiene practices.
Generally, teeth whitening can last anywhere from six months to two years.
However, you can prolong the results by avoiding foods and drinks that can stain your teeth such as coffee, tea and red wine and by maintaining good oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing regularly.
Are there any side effects of teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is generally safe and does not have any long-term side effects. However, some people may experience temporary sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures and some may experience gum irritation.
These side effects typically resolve within a few days to a week after treatment.
Is teeth whitening covered by insurance?
Teeth whitening is considered a cosmetic dental treatment and is typically not covered by insurance. However, some dental insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost if the treatment is deemed medically necessary.
How much does teeth whitening cost?
The cost of teeth whitening can vary depending on several factors, including the type of treatment you choose and the severity of your staining. In-office teeth whitening and at-home teeth whitening can range in pricing.
For a more personalised and precise quote, our team recommends booking your initial consultation with your dentist at Dentists@Labrador.
Teeth Whitening in Labrador, Gold Coast
Teeth whitening is a safe and effective cosmetic dental treatment that can help improve the appearance of your smile.
If you are interested in teeth whitening, it is best to consult with your dentist at Dentists@Labrador to determine the best treatment option for you. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy a brighter, more youthful-looking smile for years to come.
Schedule a consultation with one of our qualified and friendly dentists or call us to arrange a consultation over the phone today.
