The Bright Side of In-Office Whitening: Your Quick Guide to a Dazzling Smile
Are you dreaming of a smile that lights up a room? In-office teeth whitening might be your ticket to a brighter, more confident you. As summer is around the corner, a lot of patients are asking about whitening. Let's dive into the ins and outs of this popular cosmetic treatment.
Why In-Office Whitening?
- Dramatic Results: In-office whitening uses professional-strength bleaching agents that can lift stains and brighten your smile by several shades in a single visit.
- Safe and Supervised: The entire process is supervised, ensuring that your gums and teeth are protected from irritation.
- Customizable: The whitening gel concentration and treatment duration can be tailored to your specific needs and desired results.
- Efficient: Forget about messy trays and weeks of waiting. In-office whitening is a fast and effective way to achieve your dream smile.
What Happens During a Whitening Session?
- Preparation: Your gums and lips will be protected with a barrier.
- Gel Application: A whitening gel containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide is carefully applied to your teeth.
- Activation: A special light or laser may be used to accelerate the whitening process.
- Repeat: Steps 2 and 3 may be repeated several times during the session.
- Finishing Touches: Your dentist will remove the gel and barrier, and you'll be able to admire your brighter smile!
Is In-Office Whitening Right for You?
In-office whitening is generally safe for most people, but it's not suitable for everyone. Talk to us if you have any concerns about:
- Sensitive Teeth: Whitening can sometimes cause temporary sensitivity.
- Existing Dental Work: Crowns, veneers, and fillings don't respond to whitening treatment.
- Pregnancy or Breastfeeding: It's best to postpone whitening until after pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Aftercare Tips
- Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks: Limit coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries for the first few days after treatment.
- Use a Straw: When you do indulge in staining beverages, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day, floss daily, and see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
Common Myth or Commonly Asked Questions
- Teeth whitening damges tooth enamel: False, when performed by a qualified dentist or hygienist, in-office whitening is a safe and effective procedure. The professional-strength whitening agents used in the process are carefully applied and monitored to protect your teeth and gums. While some temporary sensitivity may occur after treatment, this is usually mild and subsides quickly.
- The results of in-office whitening are permanent: False, while the treatment can significantly brighten your smile, it's important to understand that teeth naturally darken over time due to exposure to staining foods and drinks, as well as the aging process. To maintain your bright smile, you'll need to practice good oral hygiene and consider touch-up whitening treatments.
Call the office to find out about our in-office whitening special! 646-687-7898
Author
Dr. Yohan Kim
Dr. Kim graduated from University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine Top of the Class and extended his training in General Practice Residency at Bellevue Hospital Center. He has been a faculty at AIC implant training center and lectured in US and Canada for the past 7 years. He has been part-time clinical instructor at NYU Implantology program as well as at GPR program at Bellevue hospital center. He truly believes that education and better knowledge empower patients. He maintains a private practice in Manhattan, New York focusing on comprehensive digital dentistry.
