What Questions to Ask Your Dentist About Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is a great way to brighten your smile after stains develop. If you are not sure if professional teeth whitening is right for you, then you can learn more about it through a consultation with a dentist. The following are five questions to ask your dentist before teeth whitening.

Things to know before professional teeth whitening

Professional, in-office teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that brightens the shade of natural teeth. This involves the application of a bleaching agent. The entire procedure takes place inside the dentist’s office and typically takes less than an hour to complete.

What type of stains can teeth whitening remove?

There are many reasons why teeth may stain. It could be the result of poor oral hygiene that leads to decalcification, tobacco use, foods that cause stains, and more. It is important to determine the cause and type of teeth stains. There are different types of teeth stains. The two most notable types include:

• Extrinsic staining
• Intrinsic staining

In simplest terms, extrinsic stains do not go as deep into the tooth and can subsequently be much easier to treat with professional teeth whitening. They often extend to cover most of the tooth, whereas intrinsic often cause more localized dark spots.

Are there any risks with professional teeth whitening?

Professional teeth whitening is much safer than over-the-counter whitening products. This is because the dentist can monitor the treatment process. However, there are some risks with any whitening products, including teeth sensitivity and gum irritation. Be sure to ask the dentist about the potential risks and what can be done to make treatment as safe as possible.

What does professional teeth whitening involve?

There are two types of professional teeth whitening, which are at-home teeth whitening kits and professional, in-office teeth whitening. Discuss the treatment process for both with your dentist. Both are safe and non-invasive methods of cosmetic treatment.

How white will my teeth get with professional whitening?

The dentist can use a shade guide to show you approximately how white your teeth can become through treatment. It is important to ask about this to have realistic expectations about what can be expected during treatment. For severe stains, the dentist may recommend using veneers or dental bonding if the desired results cannot be achieved through whitening.

How can I keep my smile bright after treatment?

It is also important to keep your smile white through good oral care and dietary choices. Talk to the dentist about ways to keep your smile great between dental visits for teeth whitening.