Teeth Whitening

What Is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure designed to brighten and lighten the color of your teeth by removing stains and discoloration. It works by using bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to break down surface stains and penetrate the enamel for deeper whitening. Common causes of tooth discoloration include coffee, tea, wine, smoking, and aging. Teeth whitening can be performed in-office for immediate results or at home with custom trays or over-the-counter products for gradual improvement. This simple and effective treatment helps restore a vibrant, youthful smile.

Many of us drink coffee to start our days, and eat dinner with a glass of wine. These are two liquids that can create major stains on tooth enamel, causing a more yellow appearance. While staying away from liquids that can cause stains can help minimize yellowing, this is not what most people want to do. To combat staining, professional teeth whitening services help so that you can have white teeth and continue enjoying the food and drinks that you love.

Anyone can go to their local pharmacy and pick up a teeth whitening kit. However, this treatment is not as effective as professional teeth whitening services. Below are some of the benefits of opting for professional whitening services from your dentist:

The Professional Teeth Whitening Process

Professional teeth whitening is a safe, effective, and fast way to achieve a brighter smile under the supervision of a dental professional. The process typically involves the following steps:

Professional teeth whitening can whiten teeth by several shades in just one session, providing safe and noticeable results compared to over-the-counter alternatives.

How Long Does Professional Teeth Whitening Take?

The professional teeth whitening process typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes per session. Many patients achieve their desired results in just one visit, though others may require multiple sessions depending on the level of staining and their whitening goals. In cases of take-home whitening kits provided by a dentist, the process may take 1 to 2 weeks, with daily applications lasting about 30 minutes to an hour. Professional whitening offers fast and efficient results compared to over-the-counter alternatives.

How Long Do Professional Teeth Whitening Results Last?

The results of professional teeth whitening can last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years, depending on your oral hygiene habits and lifestyle choices. Factors like consuming staining foods and beverages (e.g., coffee, tea, red wine) or smoking can shorten the duration of your brighter smile. To extend the results, dentists recommend maintaining good oral hygiene, using whitening toothpaste, and avoiding staining substances. Regular dental cleanings and occasional touch-up treatments can also help preserve the whiteness of your teeth for a longer period.

A white, bright, beautiful smile is the perfect accessory for anyone. Whiter teeth can make you smile more and feel more confident, which can be a great asset for your professional and personal life! At WestLake Dental Care, we offer professional teeth whitening services to any individual looking to enhance their smile. To learn more, contact us today!