Having a bright white smile can boost your confidence and make you smile more. A professional tooth whitening treatment is the most effective way to get a whiter smile. As with many dental procedures people often wonder, is teeth whitening painful? Below you will find helpful information about teeth whitening and how you can achieve a more beautiful smile.
Is Teeth Whitening Painful?
Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dental treatments. One of the most common concerns about tooth whitening treatment is whether or not it is painful. For the vast majority of patients, teeth whitening is not painful. However, some people who have sensitive teeth may experience some discomfort. The source of the discomfort is due to the hydrogen peroxide in the whitening agent. This is why it is best to get a professional whitening treatment versus doing it yourself at home. At-home treatments are often ineffective or cannot achieve the same results as professional treatments.
For anyone who has experienced tooth sensitivity during at-home whitening treatment, it may be a sign of a more serious issue. Before you have a professional whitening treatment, you’ll need to schedule a consultation. It’s important to let your La Mesa dentist know of any tooth sensitivities, so they can rule out any other dental issues before moving forward with whitening your teeth.
Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment
Despite entire aisles being filled with whitening toothpaste, whitening strips, and whitening treatments, professional teeth whitening treatments are the most effective option. Professional teeth whitening can help get your teeth shades whiter. The treatment is smooth and you can see the results immediately.
Professional teeth whitening treatment begins with the dentist drying your teeth and polishing off any remaining plaque. Your teeth are then coated with a whitening gel that penetrates through the pores of your teeth. Low-level heat light is used to activate the whitening gel. The whitening gel is left on your teeth for one hour. If you have sensitive teeth, a fluoride solution may be applied after to help with any potential discomfort. Depending on the color of your teeth you may need to get multiple treatments to achieve your desired aesthetic. However, you will notice results right away.
Tips to Keep Your Teeth White
A tooth whitening treatment can do wonders for your smile. It is a great investment that can improve your self-confidence. However, you will need to take care of your teeth after your treatment to ensure your results last. Below are some helpful tips to keep your teeth white after a whitening treatment.
- Daily Oral Care Routine: The most important thing you can do to keep your teeth white (and keep your oral health in good shape) is to stay consistent with your daily oral care routine. This includes brushing at least twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush. In addition to brushing, floss at least once a day. If you only floss once, floss at night to ensure your teeth are clean before bed.
- Foods and Drinks: Avoid foods and drinks that can stain your teeth. Candy, pastries, and processed foods can all cause staining and possibly lead to tooth decay. You should also avoid sodas, juices, wine, coffee, and tea as they can all cause stains. If you do eat or drink any of these foods or drinks, rinse your mouth with water immediately after. Brush your teeth thirty minutes after your rinse as brushing right away can negatively impact your tooth’s enamel.
- Smoking: Avoid smoking or using chewing tobacco. The impact on your overall and oral health is too great. In addition to the impact it can have on your health, smoking will also stain your teeth.
