How to Prepare for a Professional Teeth Whitening Session
Do you have a professional teeth whitening session coming up? If so, read on to learn how to prepare for it.
In 2018, 40.5 million Americans used some type of tooth whitening product. By 2020, this number is expected to grow to 40.57 million people.
The numbers above represent people who use both over-the-counter whitening products, as well a professional teeth whitening services. The fact is, this is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures offered today.
It's safe, effective and provides patients with immediate results - what could be better?
However, if you have decided you want to invest in professional teeth whitening from your dentist, there are a few things you need to do to prepare. By using the tips here, you will gain the maximum benefits possible from this procedure.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening
Before diving into how to get ready for a professional whitening procedure, it may be beneficial to know some of the benefits this procedure offers. These include:
- A stronger and more thorough whitening
- Reliability and speed
- Customized treatments
- Comfortable and safe treatment
- Immediate results
As you can see, opting for professional whitening services, rather than an over-the-counter product, offers a wide array of benefits.
Now read on for your own, "before you go" guide.
Schedule a Dental Check-Up First
If you have scheduled a routine dental visit directly before your whitening session, be sure to take advantage of this appointment. Even if you don't have a scheduled appointment, it's a good idea to see your dentist prior to the appointment.
A dental professional can evaluate your overall dental health and your unique needs to ensure the right whitening treatment is used. Since there are some stains that can't be removed with any whitening product, it's a good idea to get an opinion from your dentist before you move forward with the procedure.
During this appointment, your dentist can let you know whether or not you are a good candidate for teeth whitening. The fact is, even the highest quality professional bleaching gel won't work against some discoloration.
For example, it won't work for teeth that are discolored due to internal staining caused by:
- Long-term exposure to antibiotics
- Decay
- Trauma
Mot whitening treatments are only going to work for external stains. This includes stains resulting from smoking, drinking, and eating.
Have Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned before the Whitening Treatment
Regardless of which treatment you choose to have done, it's a good idea to have your dentist clean your teeth first. This will help to improve the results of the whitening treatment.
If there is any plaque or tartar on your teeth, along with other sediments, they can lead to subpar whitening results. In addition to a professional cleaning, it's also necessary to maintain good dental care prior to your treatment.
Floss and brush your teeth each day to avoid issues that may botch or delay the results of the whitening treatment.
Desensitize Your Sensitive Teeth
It's estimated that one out of every eight people suffers from sensitive teeth, which equates to approximately 40 million Americans. If you have sensitive teeth, then having your teeth whitened may only enhance this sensitivity.
If you really want to have this procedure done, then it's a good idea to use a desensitizing toothpaste prior to the whitening procedure. This type of toothpaste contains potassium nitrate and strontium chloride.
These ingredients help to block pain signal transmission from your tooth to the nerve. This can help reduce the amount of pain you feel.
There are some people who experience tooth sensitivity due to the chemicals and heat used during a dental treatment that penetrates their tooth's pores. By using a desensitizing toothpaste, it can reduce discomfort both before and after the whitening treatment.
If you are worried that your teeth are extremely sensitive, and you may experience discomfort after your treatment, then using a pain reliever may be a good idea. Discuss this with your dentist ahead of time.
Use a Shade Guide
It's never a good idea to try and "wing it" when it comes to teeth whitening. Instead, consult with your dentist, have your teeth cleaned, use a desensitizing toothpaste for any sensitivity issues, and determine what your "goal shade" is.
It's a good idea to use a shade guide to compare the different shades with the current color of your teeth. Find one that matches closely so that you have a base shade, as well as a goal shade.
You can also use the shade guide after the whitening treatment to see the results. If you aren't sure what shade should be your goal shade, then talk to your dentist.
They can help you determine how much lighter you need to go to achieve a brighter and more natural smile.
Is Professional Teeth Whitening Right for You?
The question of whether or not professional teeth whitening is right for you is one that each person has to answer for themselves. However, there is no question that it offers more than a few benefits.
If you are interested in teeth whitening services, speak with your dentist. You can also reach out to our team, as we are currently accepting new patients.
Keep in mind, there may be some situations where this isn't the best option, but your dentist can work with you and provide additional solutions and options. Don't give up, you can get a brighter and whiter smile.
Don't underestimate the benefits offered by a dazzling white smile. It can help give you a new lease on life, more self-confidence and more. Invest in yourself with professional teeth whitening services.