A stunning smile with white and bright teeth is a dream for many. In the quest for this ideal, professional teeth whitening has become increasingly popular. However, before diving into this treatment, it’s essential to be informed. In this article, we will explore in depth what you need to know about professional teeth whitening.
What is Professional Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening is a treatment that uses bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide, to remove stains and lighten the color of teeth. This treatment is more effective, faster, and especially safer compared to DIY methods, thanks to the use of higher concentrations of bleaching agents and advanced techniques.
What are the Types of Professional Teeth Whitening?
There are mainly two types of professional teeth whitening:
- In-Office: This treatment is performed by a dentist and usually requires one or two visits. The dentist will apply a whitening gel to the teeth and may use UV light or other systems to accelerate the gel’s reaction.
- At-Home Supervised by a Dentist: This method involves using a customized whitening kit. The dentist provides custom-made trays and a whitening gel to be used at home for a specified period.
Advantages of Professional Teeth Whitening
- Effective and Lasting Results: Thanks to the higher concentration of bleaching agents, the results are better and more durable compared to over-the-counter products. Additionally, thanks to accurate diagnosis of the type of staining and the choice of the right method, the results are much more predictable.
- Professional Supervision: The dentist will be able to assess the health of your teeth and ensure that the treatment is safe and effective.
- Customization: The treatment can be customized based on the specific needs of the patient, for example, in case of tooth sensitivity.
Important Considerations
Who can undergo whitening?
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for professional teeth whitening. For example, people with receding gums, very sensitive teeth, or dental restorations might not be suitable for the treatment. For this reason, a diagnosis by a dentist experienced in aesthetic and cosmetic dental treatments is crucial.
Costs
The costs of professional teeth whitening can vary based on the dental situation and the type of tooth staining.
Maintenance
After the treatment, it is important to follow the dentist’s instructions, which might include avoiding foods and drinks that stain teeth.
It is possible to lead a normal life without having to avoid certain foods or drinks but with the caution of regularly repeating control visits and professional hygiene sessions.
Possible Side Effects
- Sensitivity: In some cases, increased tooth sensitivity may be experienced during the treatment. This sensitivity normally ceases after the first 2-3 days of treatment and always disappears when the treatment is stopped. Patients are preemptively instructed to use desensitizing products provided to them at the beginning of the whitening.
- Gum Irritation: It is rare for gums to become irritated during the treatment because the trays are manufactured to precisely replicate the shape of the teeth, thereby perfectly containing the whitening gel.
It’s important to discuss these possible side effects with the dentist and follow their recommendations to minimize or eliminate them.
Conclusion: A Step Towards the Smile of Your Dreams
Professional teeth whitening can be an effective solution for achieving a whiter and brighter smile. However, it is essential to be well informed and consult an experienced cosmetic dentist before embarking on the treatment.
In our clinics in Bologna and Faenza, we are committed to providing high-quality services and guiding patients on their journey towards a better smile. For more information, do not hesitate to contact us and book a consultation with Dr. Frabboni at our Bologna clinic at 344-3433540 and in Faenza at 388-0576093.
