Stained, discolored teeth can impact your confidence. Various factors, including consumption of certain beverages and foods like wine and coffee, and smoking can lead to teeth staining. If you feel concerned about smiling opening because the aesthetics of your teeth are compromised, teeth whitening could be an option for you. You need to see a dentist in Pekin, IL, to discuss the options and understand the expected results. For your help, we have reviewed the procedure below.
When do you need teeth whitening?
There are several reasons why you may want to consider this. Besides stained and yellow teeth, patients who have excessive fluoridation may need bleaching to get whiter teeth. With age, the normal wear of the enamel can impact the “whiteness” of your teeth, requiring teeth whitening.
Understanding teeth whitening
Generally, patients have two options for teeth whitening. The first one is called in-clinic whitening, where the dentist uses special dental instruments and bleaching agents to clean the teeth and remove the stains. The results are instant. The second option is take-home teeth whitening kits. During your first appointment, your dentist will make molds of your teeth, which are then sent to the lab to order custom, clear trays. You will return after the trays are ready, and your dentist may make adjustments to ensure a proper fit. You will have to wear the trays using special bleaching agents. Some kits require patients to wear the trays overnight, while others involve using the trays for 30 minutes twice each day.
Other things to know
Remember that teeth whitening is not permanent. If you continue to smoke or consume beverages and foods that can cause teeth staining, you will have to return for touch-ups. Also, teeth whitening can cause some sensitivity, which is normal. You should be able to get whiter teeth in a matter of a few days, and as you stop using the trays and bleaching solution, the symptoms of sensitivity will subside. Your dentist will also check if you have restorations, such as crowns and bridges, and if replacements are necessary, they will do the same after teeth whitening to ensure the color match is exact. The cost of the procedure may vary, but take-home kits are less expensive. If you don’t mind paying a tad more, consider professional teeth whitening at the clinic.
If you have questions related to teeth whitening or want to know more about the procedure, your dentist will answer them for you.
