If you want to whiten your teeth for a brighter smile, you have two options to achieve your goal—an at-home kit or a dentist. It may be tempting to buy a convenient drugstore whitening kit, but dentists offer safer and more effective options. Modern Smiles shares why dentists are a better alternative to over-the-counter whitening kits and what to expect during and after you whiten your teeth.
WHY ARE DENTISTS A BETTER OPTION TO WHITEN YOUR TEETH? 
Dentists offer faster, more reliable results than OTC kits and strips by using stronger ingredients. Your dentist will monitor your progress to ensure your teeth lighten to your desired level, which is hard to achieve on your own. If you accidentally over-whiten your teeth or leave OTC products on too long, you can damage your enamel. Your dentist can also properly protect your gums. With an at-home kit, you risk burning or bleaching your gums.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A SESSION TO WHITEN YOUR TEETH?
A whitening session will last roughly 60 to 90 minutes. To prepare for the whitening treatment, your dentist will polish your teeth to remove any surface plaque. Then your dentist will keep your teeth dry with gauze and use a retractor to keep your lips and tongue away from the solution. To protect your gums, your dentist will place a barrier along the gum line. Once the whitening solution is applied, it will stay on for 30 minutes to an hour, and some products will require a light or laser. Your dentist will rinse the product off once your teeth have reached your desired shade of white or the solution has sat for the maximum amount of time allowed. If your teeth are not as white as you’d like, you will schedule a follow-up appointment.
TO WHITEN YOUR TEETH, DO YOU NEED TO DO ANYTHING TO PREPARE?
Keeping your mouth clean and healthy is the best way to prepare to whiten your teeth during your appointment because the treatments work best on tartar and plaque-free teeth. If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, your dentist may have you use special toothpaste for two weeks before your appointment.
WHAT IS IN THE SOLUTION USED TO WHITEN YOUR TEETH?
There are several whitening solutions on the market to whiten your teeth. Your dentist may use a treatment with Carbamide Peroxide, Potassium Nitrate Fluoride, or Hydrogen Peroxide.
WILL IT CAUSE TOOTH OR GUM PAIN WHEN YOU WHITEN YOUR TEETH?
Whitening can cause sensitivity to your teeth and gums, but the amount of sensitivity varies from person to person. An over-the-counter pain reliever will usually help with any pain or discomfort you may experience. Talk to your dentist before you whiten your teeth about ways to avoid sensitivity. If you’re prone to sensitivity, your dentist will adjust the strength of the solution and the amount of time it sits on your teeth.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO AFTER YOU WHITEN YOUR TEETH?
For at least 24 hours, avoid foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as spaghetti, coffee, and wine. Also, do not use any tobacco products during that time.
HOW LONG WILL THE TREATMENT LAST AFTER YOU WHITEN YOUR TEETH?
Results can last for several months to a year, depending on your diet and lifestyle. Dentists only recommend you whiten your teeth in-office once a year to protect your enamel. In between visits, it’s up to you to maintain good dental care habits and avoid staining foods and tobacco.
At Modern Smiles, we understand that every patient has unique needs and desires when it comes to their smile. Our skilled cosmetic dentists are committed to creating customized treatment plans that align with your individual smile goals. Whether you’re looking for teeth whitening, veneers, or a complete smile makeover, we have the expertise and state-of-the-art technology to deliver stunning results.
If you would like to whiten your teeth so you can have the beautiful, white smile of your dreams, contact Modern Smiles. Let one of our outstanding cosmetic dentists work with you to find the perfect option for you. Schedule your appointment today to whiten your teeth!