Does Teeth Whitening Hurt?
You may feel hesitant to pursue teeth whitening in Lakewood if you’re worried about the procedure potentially causing pain. The good news is that when choosing a professional system and skilled cosmetic dentist, you are much less likely to experience tooth sensitivity, which can often lead to significant discomfort. Although, if you do suffer from regular sensitivity, you’ll want to make sure Dr. Vanderbrook knows before moving forward with your treatment plan. It may be necessary to spread out your whitening sessions as well as limit/avoid the consumption of hot or cold beverages.
You may also find it helpful to use specialized toothpaste designed to reduce the potential for sensitivity.
What’s the Difference Between Professional and Store-Bought Teeth Whitening?
When you try to compare professional whitening services with kits found on your local drug store shelves, you’ll discover there are very few similarities. Do-it-yourself (DIY) options usually contain one-size-fits-all trays or strips that use a low-grade (less powerful) bleaching gel. Professional treatments are customized according to your needs and goals.
When starting a professional whitening plan, your cosmetic dentist in Dallas will begin by examining your oral health and determining if you’re a good candidate. If you have any customized restorations, they will not be changed by any bleaching agent. Should you show signs of periodontal disease or tooth decay, you’ll need to undergo specialized treatment first.
Not only is professional whitening safer to use, but it is highly effective and monitored with the help of a trusted expert.
Does Teeth Whitening Work on Dental Crowns?
No, teeth whitening will not work on any custom-made restorations (i.e., crowns, bridges, veneers, inlays, onlays). Because these are artificial teeth, they are not porous like regular tooth enamel, so the bleaching agent cannot penetrate. The substances used can also break down the bonding agent used to hold your restoration in place, which is why it is strongly encouraged that you discuss your dental history with your cosmetic dentist in Lakewood during your initial consultation.
As long as you remain committed to proper oral hygiene, you can keep your restorations looking healthy and new. Should your crown become discolored over time, you can always have it replaced.
Is Teeth Whitening Permanent?
While it would be nice to only need one treatment for teeth whitening, the reality is this simply isn’t true. You can expect your results to last a few months depending on the type of product used as well as how well you take care of your smile after treatment is complete. Optimal oral hygiene, limited consumption of dark-colored beverages, and regular checkups and cleanings every six months are effective ways to keep your smile looking whiter. You should know, however, that touch-ups will be necessary if you want to keep your teeth brighter.
