Teeth Whitening Can Help You Get the Brilliant Smile You’ve Always Wanted
Are you thinking about getting your teeth whitened using cosmetic dentistry? Millions of people all around the United States get their teeth whitened – it’s definitely not just for celebrities and television presenters! To get the most out of it, though, there are some things you should know.First, some important definitions:
1) Teeth Whitening
“Whitening” is a procedure that gently removes surface stains from your teeth using chemicals or, in some cases, lasers. These chemicals are mildly abrasive, eliminating the layer of surface stains from your teeth.
2) Teeth Bleaching
Many dentists draw a distinction between whitening and bleaching. “Bleaching” uses more powerful chemicals which penetrate deeper into the enamel of your teeth. This allows them to remove deeper stains.
Before you get your teeth whitened, your dentist will take some time to observe and examine your mouth. During this time, it becomes clear to the dentist which method of tooth whitening will be most effective for you.
In dentistry, as with many other parts of the medical field, it is usually a good idea to use the most gentle methods that will meet your needs. Nonetheless, whitening is extremely effective – your teeth may become four, five, or even six shades lighter after a single treatment.
What Happens Before a Teeth Whitening Procedure?
Teeth whitening is a form of cosmetic dentistry. Before any cosmetic procedure is performed on your mouth, it is very important to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy. Because of this, it may be necessary to clean your teeth or to fill cavities before the procedure.
It is usually not possible to whiten the teeth using chemicals if there are untreated cavities. This is true even if the surfaces of the teeth you plan to whiten have not been damaged by the cavity. Although whitening agents are safe for your enamel, they may cause irritation if allowed to enter your tooth through a cavity.
Prior to whitening, your teeth should be professionally cleaned. This may involve the scraping of plaque, which can be uncomfortable but is very brief. After that, your gums should be examined. When you are ready for whitening, the whole procedure may take less than an hour. Follow-up procedures can be scheduled based on your needs.
How Can I Keep My Teeth White?
To keep your teeth white, be careful of the health of your enamel:
— Brush your teeth regularly, at least twice a day and after each meal.
— Be careful of foods that stain the teeth, especially things like coffee.
— Avoid overconsumption of highly acidic foods that damage teeth.
— Remember to floss on a regular basis.
Whether you’re in Westlake Village, Newbury Parks, or Thousand Oaks, you’ll find our convenient office is the best for whitening in California. We look forward to meeting you and discussing your dental needs.