How Do You Whiten Teeth Instantly?
If you have yellow, stained, or discolored teeth, you know how uncomfortable they can make you feel. You may try to hide your smile in photos or social situations.
Professional chairside teeth whitening can give you a chance at a radiant smile in just one visit. When a dental professional provides this treatment, it is safe, effective, and shows stunning results.
Reasons Why Teeth Become Discolored
Even if you brush and floss daily, your teeth may become stained. The following conditions and lifestyle habits may lead to stained teeth:
- Natural aging
- Smoking or tobacco use of any kind
- Highly pigmented foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and dark chocolate
- Certain medications
- Poor oral hygiene and missing dental appointments
Teeth Whitening Options
Over-the-Counter Whitening
You may believe that over-the-counter whitening is less expensive than professional whitening and that over-the-counter products are equally effective. However, over-the-counter products generally use a far lower concentration of whitening ingredients than professional products, making their results less predictable and more gradual.
Conversely, some whitening gels purchased online are too strong to be used without dental supervision, leading to excess sensitivity and chemical burns to the gums.
At-Home Professional Whitening
At-home professional whitening is a safe, effective alternative to over-the-counter solutions. If you want a more gradual change, at-home professional whitening may be your best choice.
In-Office Professional Whitening
In-office or chairside whitening is the only way to significantly whiten teeth in just one or two office visits. You can achieve up to eight whitening shades in one session.
How In-Office Teeth Whitening Works
To whiten your teeth in the office, your dentist will first protect your gums, cheeks, and tongue from the robust bleaching solution. They will then paint the whitening gel on your teeth, ensuring an even coat for a perfect appearance.
Your dentist may use a particular light or a laser to activate the whitening gel, or it may activate on its own. The whitening gel enters the tooth's pores and physically breaks up stain molecules.
The dentist carefully rinses the first gel application. They may repeat the process up to three times in one appointment.
After treatment, the dentist applies a fluoride gel to remineralize the teeth and seal the pores in the enamel. The gel also helps to alleviate post-whitening sensitivity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening
What kind of chemical is in teeth whitening solutions?
Generally, carbamide or hydrogen peroxide are used to whiten teeth. These are safe substances when used by a qualified dental professional.
How long does professional teeth whitening last?
It depends on how often you want to touch up your results. You should see excellent results for about 3 to 6 months after whitening. Ensure you take good care of your teeth and avoid staining foods and beverages to the greatest extent.
Call Lane Family Dentistry
If you're unhappy with your smile, we can help make it brilliant. Please call our Vilonia, AR, office at 501-796-3903 today to schedule a consultation.