FAQs About Teeth Whitening

Do you despise your teeth due to stains that just won't budge, no matter how much you brush? Many people struggle with this issue, feeling unsure about turning to teeth whitening as a possible solution.

If you want to try out teeth whitening in Georgetown but want to be informed before booking an appointment, get answers to the most common questions about the procedure to make the right decision.

Get Answers to the Most Common Teeth Whitening Questions

What is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure to lighten the shade of your teeth and effectively remove stains and discoloration. Whether it's performed by a dentist or at home with a whitening kit, the goal remains the same: achieving a brighter, more radiant smile.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

At its core, teeth whitening works by using whitening agents to penetrate the enamel and break down stains, revealing whiter teeth underneath. Hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide are among the most popular in both professional and over-the-counter products.

Whitening agents react with the discolored molecules in your teeth, breaking them down and making your teeth appear whiter. Factors like enamel thickness and the type of stains also determine the effectiveness of the treatment.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

When performed under professional supervision, teeth whitening is generally safe. However, there are potential side effects after treatment, such as:

• Tooth sensitivity
• Gum irritation
• Temporary white spots on the gums

Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Teeth Whitening?

If you have overall good dental health with minimal issues like cavities or gum disease, you're likely a perfect candidate for teeth whitening.

On the other hand, some conditions or factors that may disqualify you from the treatment include:

• Allergies to whitening agents
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Under 18 years old without parental consent
• Presence of dental restorations (e.g., crowns, veneers) that won't whiten

Your dentist will assess your oral health and ask for your medical history before suggesting teeth whitening as a potential treatment.

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

Usually, the effects of teeth whitening can last anywhere from several months to a couple of years. Your diet, how well you brush and floss, and the things you do day-to-day all affect how long your smile stays bright.

If you want to make your teeth whitening treatment to have lasting results, try the following tips:

• Maintain good oral hygiene
• Avoid foods and drinks that stain teeth
• Quit smoking
• Schedule regular dental check-ups
• Consider touch-up treatments as needed

Can Teeth Whitening Remove All Stains?

While teeth whitening can take care of surface stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco, it may not be able to eliminate all types of stains. Deep-seated or intrinsic stains, which originate within the tooth's structure, are more challenging to address with teeth whitening alone.

Additionally, certain types of discoloration, such as those caused by medications or excessive fluoride exposure, may not respond well to traditional whitening methods. In such cases, your dentist may recommend alternative cosmetic dental procedures like veneers or bonding to achieve the desired results.

Interested in Teeth Whitening in Georgetown?

If you're considering teeth whitening or any other dental procedure to improve your smile, we invite you to contact Georgetown Sedation Dentistry.

Thanks to our warm team and modern technology, we’ve created a comfortable experience for our patients. Contact us today to book an appointment!