Teeth Whitening FAQs

Teeth whitening is an increasing popular cosmetic dentistry procedure. If you are considering teeth whitening, review the following frequently asked questions to learn more about what to expect.

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is a treatment designed to address tooth discoloration. Most teeth whitening systems utilize a whitening gel that works to remove stains to improve the appearance of the smile. On average, professional whitening systems can provide six to ten shades of whitening.

Who is a candidate for this treatment?

In general, any patient who is in good health and who is concerned about tooth discoloration may be a good candidate for teeth whitening. Patients who have already tried professional teeth whitening without success may have staining that is resistant to the whitening gel. If this is the case, porcelain veneers may be a suitable alternative.

What causes tooth discoloration?

Teeth may become discolored for a variety of reasons, including consumption of staining foods and beverages or the use of tobacco products or certain medications. Your dentist can help you understand the factors that lead to tooth discoloration so you can prolong the results of your teeth whitening treatment.

Is the treatment safe?

Teeth whitening is an extremely safe treatment option. The most common side effects associated with the procedure are tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. If these conditions develop, they will typically resolve on their own as the whitening treatments are ceased.

To learn more about how treatments like teeth whitening can help you enhance the appearance of your smile, contact a cosmetic dentist today.