Professional teeth whitening is a process that helps restore your teeth to their natural, pearly-white color. Even if you brush and floss your teeth, it is normal for your teeth to yellow over time.
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Does professional teeth whitening offer the best results?
Professional teeth whitening offers the safest, most reliable results. A cosmetic dentist can help you get a whiter smile in as little as two visits.
While a number of home remedies do exist, cosmetic dentists offer the safest and most effective results. Connect with a dentist on Sesame for a professional teeth whitening visit for one affordable, upfront price. No copays or hidden fees, just the care you need.
What types of teeth whitening products can my dentist provide?
From over-the-counter, take-home teeth whitening systems, to in-person procedures, there are many ways dentists can help whiten your smile.
In-office whitening: This is the best option if you wish to see results quickly. Multiple visits may be needed, depending on your desired level of whitening (some kits include Zoom, Lumibrite, Britesmile and Opalescence).
Whitening toothpaste: Toothpaste is a home bleaching option that typically uses substances like hydrogen peroxide to whiten the surface layer of the teeth while polishing enamel with special abrasives. This type of whitening does not change the natural color of the tooth, but may remove some surface discoloration. Examples of this include Crest 3D White and Colgate Optic White Advanced)
Whitening gels: Hydrogen peroxide gels that can be painted to the tooth’s surface with a brush. Examples include Auraglow Teeth Whitening Pen and Opalescence.
Whitening rinses: Some mouthwashes include chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide. These are helpful not only with whitening but also with fighting gum disease, breaking down plaque buildup, and freshening breath. Some experts believe these are less effective because they don’t sit on the teeth as long as other whitening products, but may be helpful for maintaining your already whitened smile.
Whitening strips: Very thin strips coated with whitening gel, often peroxide-based, that wrap around the teeth for a period of time. Common examples include Crest-3D Whitestrips, which are the only at-home whitening product to receive the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance.
Whitening kits: Home kits provided by your dentist may include a high concentration of either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, including Auraglow Teeth Whitening Kit (includes hands-free LED light).
Whitening trays: Whitening gel that is placed in a tray and worn around the teeth for a few hours each night. Your dentist can help prescribe a plan based on the level of whitening desired.
Why does whitening create sensitivity?
After visiting a dentist for a teeth whitening procedure, you may encounter minor side effects like tooth sensitivity or gum discomfort. Rest assured, though. These effects are only temporary and can be treated by your dentist.
These symptoms are caused by the bleaching solution, which may remove the minerals from the tooth enamel that normally cover your dental nerves. Once the minerals are restored, it is normal for the tooth sensitivity to go away within a few days after your whitening session.
How long does it take for the whitening process to work?
Most patients will start to see results after 3 to 4 weeks.
Professional teeth whitening appointments generally take between 30 and 60 minutes.
At your initial consultation, your dentist will likely start with an exam that may include x-rays to help decide which treatment is best for your case. They may also take before and after photos to measure the success of your treatment.
Most appointments at your dentist's office will begin with a short teeth cleaning to clear away plaque, tartar, and other debris and “prep” your teeth for treatment. Your dentist may then use a cheek retractor, which pulls the cheeks away from the teeth. From there, they will use rubber dams or resin to protect the gums. They will then apply a gel to the teeth, leaving it on for 15 to 30 minutes before cleaning off and reapplying. Your dentist may reapply multiple times during the treatment.
What are the advantages of whitening your teeth with a professional?
Professional teeth whitening is faster and more effective than at-home methods. You'll get the best results under the supervision of a licensed dentist.
Connect with a real, qualified dentist on Sesame to learn more about your teeth whitening options - all for one affordable, upfront price.
How can I get my teeth whitened?
The journey to getting white teeth is easy with Sesame. Get your bright smile by booking an appointment today {{inLocationOrNearYou}} for teeth whitening services or other oral hygiene offerings like dental cleanings and save up to 60% on care. Yep, it's really that simple.
How long does teeth whitening last?
Teeth whitening lasts for a long time as long as your careful about what you expose your teeth to. Dentists recommend you avoid foods and drinks that are acidic or rich in tannins. These include: