During a professional whitening treatment, the teeth are bleached for a brighter appearance.
Stains and discolouration on the surface of the teeth are, unfortunately, fairly common concerns. There are a number of factors that can lead to discolouration — these include the consumption of certain foods and drinks; poor oral hygiene; and the natural ageing process. The good news is that, in many cases, stains and discolouration can be reduced by means of a professional teeth whitening treatment. Read on to find out how these treatments work, and if you might benefit from the process…
What are the options?
There are a number of teeth whitening methods available, the most effective and safest of which are administered or dispensed by a qualified dentist. The method that you choose will depend on a few factors, including the type of discolouration you have, as well as your lifestyle and aesthetic goals. If you are considering a whitening treatment, it is a good idea to arrange a consultation with your dentist so that you can discuss the options that are available to you, and to confirm that the treatment is appropriate for you.
In terms of professional teeth whitening, there are two treatment options: in-office whitening and take-home whitening kits. In-office whitening treatments achieve results very quickly because they involve the use of high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. During the treatment, your dentist will apply the bleaching agent to your teeth and use a light to release oxygen. The bleaching agent, which contains hydrogen peroxide, works by removing stains from the surface of the teeth and making the underlying dentin appear whiter. In some cases, your dentist may use a laser light to speed up the process and to achieve longer-lasting results.
At-home treatments, on the other hand, involve the use of custom-made trays. Your dentist will take an impression of your mouth in order to fabricate a tray that fits comfortably. You will then place the whitening gel in your tray and wear it for the recommended time each day. The gel is formulated to whiten the enamel of the teeth gradually over time. The process generally takes two or three weeks to achieve results.
How do you maintain your results?
Although professional whitening treatments generally achieve excellent results, it is important to understand that these results are not permanent. Generally, results last between six months and two years depending on the type of treatment that you choose, as well as your lifestyle and oral hygiene habits.
In order to maintain the results of your whitening treatment for as long as possible, it is important that you maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for regular check-ups and cleans. It is best to avoid lifestyle habits that contribute to stains and discolouration — this includes smoking and the excessive consumption of alcohol. Try to limit your consumption of foods and drinks that tend to stain the teeth. Some of the most common culprits include wine, tea, coffee, soda, highly-pigmented fruits and berries, and red and dark sauces like tomato sauce and soy.
How can we help?
At Murwillumbah Dental, we offer a number of cosmetic dental treatments for patients who would like to improve the appearance of their smile. When it comes to teeth whitening treatments, we offer a few options — these include in-office teeth whitening and take-home whitening kits. Both options achieve excellent results so if you are considering a treatment, we encourage you to come in and see us so that we can advise you on the method that is right for you. If you are suffering from any oral health issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease, we recommend that you have these concerns addressed before going ahead with a cosmetic treatment.
If you would like to find out more about our teeth whitening treatments, please have a look here.
To arrange an appointment to see us, please get in touch with us here.
