Teeth whitening is bleaching your teeth to make them whiter and brighter. This cosmetic dental treatment lightens natural tooth enamel to remove stains, discoloration, and yellowing. It improves the color of your entire smile.
Professional teeth whitening offers the fastest results. At Ivan K. Salmons DDS, our dentist will apply a prescription-strength peroxide gel to your teeth. The treatment takes about one hour in the office. Your teeth will be noticeably whiter when you leave the office. The results will last several months or up to two years with proper care.
Over-the-counter products are available if you don’t want to see your dentist for a professional whitening service. These products include toothpaste, mouth rinses, gels, strips, and other at-home whitening kits. They may contain a lower peroxide concentration than a dentist’s office products. It may take several weeks to see results.
Types of Teeth Whitening
In-Office Teeth Whitening
This is a professional teeth whitening procedure performed by a dentist or dental hygienist in a dental office. It involves the application of a bleaching agent, usually a hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gel, directly to the teeth. A specialized light or laser typically activates the bleaching agent. The procedure is generally completed within a single dental visit, and the results are often immediate.
Over-the-Counter Whitening Products
Various over-the-counter teeth whitening products, including whitening strips, toothpaste, whitening pens, and mouth rinses, are available. These products typically contain lower concentrations of bleaching agents compared to professional treatments. They are self-applied according to the instructions provided on the packaging. Over-the-counter whitening products may offer more gradual results compared to professional procedures.
The Advantages of Professional Teeth Whitening
The first is safety. Your dentist will know if you have healthy gums and teeth, and they know how to protect soft tissues. Many dentists recommend avoiding whitening products if you have sensitive teeth or gums. A professional teeth whitening kit contains a more robust solution than you can find over the counter. It’s safer to use too.
Second, you get results fast. In-office whitening takes about an hour per visit. With take-home kits, it may take longer, but you’ll still get results in a couple of weeks. You don’t have to wait weeks or months for the desired results.
Third, professional teeth whitening is more effective than over-the-counter solutions. Custom-fitted trays and professional-grade bleach are more robust than anything at your local pharmacy. When you get professional treatment, you’ll see the results you’re hoping for.
Finally, your dentist can help you remove discoloration after whitening your teeth. They may suggest a special toothpaste that can help prevent future staining. They can also discuss other cosmetic treatments to help brighten your smile. Many patients opt for veneers or crowns after their teeth are lightened.
If you’re looking for professional teeth whitening near, visit Ivan K. Salmons DDS at 1855 Indian Hills Drive, Sioux City, IA 51104, or call (712) 239-5900 to schedule an appointment.
