Do you long for a bright, white smile that dazzles and expresses your confidence? While over-the-counter whitening strips and toothpaste may provide minor improvements, research conclusively shows that professional whitening treatments administered by your dentist can safely deliver dramatic, longer-lasting results far beyond what you can achieve with store-bought products. There is true transformative power in customized professional whitening that enhances smiles by up to eight shades or more, giving patients the stunning, bright smiles they crave. Read on to learn more about how today’s professional whitening procedures work and why investing in these expert treatments administered under dental supervision is absolutely worth it for almost anyone longing for that camera-ready smile.
The Science Behind Professional Whitening
Modern professional whitening relies on concentrated bleaching gels containing higher percentages of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide than you’ll find in over-the-counter strips. Under your dentist’s supervision, these substances can be safely yet effectively applied to penetrate the enamel and break down pigment molecules lodged in the teeth that cause unsightly discoloration and stains from coffee, red wine, smoking, medications, and more. The process is gradual, taking place over a tailored series of in-office visits and prescribed customized home whitening kits for maximum whitening with optimum safety, giving you intense yet comfortable brightening.
- In-Office Whitening
In-office whitening provides the fastest results through the application of powerful whitening gels. A protective barrier is placed over your gums before the bleaching agent is painted directly onto your teeth. As you sit comfortably in the dental chair, the gel sets for about 15-60 minutes. You may require multiple visits depending on the extent of staining and the level of whiteness desired.
With professional supervision, whitening levels of the gel can safely be increased up to 20-40% hydrogen peroxide compared to weaker drugstore versions. Therefore, this means you see vivid brightening in just one visit versus weeks of home treatments. In-office methods also allow for whitening both top and bottom arches simultaneously for complete satisfaction.
- Customized Take-Home Kits
For more gradual whitening over a period of days or weeks, your dentist can provide customized take-home whitening kits. Impressions are taken of your teeth so that comfortable plastic trays can be fabricated to fit your unique smile. Your dentist will demonstrate how to fill these with prescribed bleaching gel and carefully insert them over your teeth for home use.
With your own personal trays delivering professional-grade whitening, you can experience reliable results at your own pace and convenience. Take-home kits also come with whitening toothpaste and desensitizing gels to minimize the sensitivity that some patients experience during the lightening process. Used periodically, these trays can also prolong your bright smile.
The Power of Professional Care
Beyond the specialized tools and stronger formulas available, seeing your dentist for whitening offers other impactful benefits you won’t find using over-the-counter products.
- Personalized Guidance: Your dentist will assess the current shade of your teeth and determine the concentration and methods needed to help you safely achieve your ideal shade.
- Health Evaluation: An oral exam beforehand ensures whitening is appropriate for your oral health. Certain conditions may require a modified approach.
- Post-Treatment Recommendations: Professional maintenance can help your results last. Your dentist will advise on ways to avoid future staining and when to touch up your shade.
- Reduced Sensitivity: Desensitizing agents before and during the process help minimize the discomfort that some patients experience with whitening.
A dazzling white smile conveys health, confidence, and youthfulness. With professional whitening, you can realize your ideal smile goals for greater self-esteem and positive impressions. Studies show brighter smiles even elicit more trust, respect, success, and likeability.
But don’t expect instant miracles like you see on extreme makeover shows. Your dentist will help set realistic expectations based on the state of your enamel and the extent of staining. Most patients see a lightening effect of seven or more shades from professional whitening. While results vary by individual, they can last several years, especially with customized trays for touch-up whitening. For a transformative yet safe brightening experience, trust your teeth to the whitening power of professional dentistry. Schedule a smile evaluation today at Carrum Downs Dental Group to get started.
