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The enamel, the outer layer of your teeth, is the hardest substance in the human body!
The first step towards a brighter smile is a consultation and thorough dental examination. Dr. Brookes of Acacia Dental Care will assess your oral health, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine if teeth whitening is the right option for you. This step is crucial as certain conditions, like cavities or gum disease, need to be addressed before whitening to prevent sensitivity or discomfort. You'll also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the procedure during this initial visit.
Once you're deemed a suitable candidate for teeth whitening, the next step involves creating a custom tray for your treatment. Dr. Brookes will take an impression of your teeth, which is used to craft a custom-fitted whitening tray. This tray is designed to fit snugly over your teeth, ensuring that the whitening gel is evenly distributed for optimal results.
The final step is the whitening process itself. You'll apply the whitening gel to the custom tray and wear it for a prescribed amount of time each day. The gel works to lighten your teeth by several shades over a period of a few days or weeks, depending on the extent of discoloration and your desired level of whiteness.
Teeth whitening doesn't damage your teeth – it simply removes stains and discoloration!
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure designed to lighten the color of your teeth and remove stains and discoloration. It involves the use of whitening agents, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which penetrate the tooth enamel to break down the stains. The result is a brighter, whiter smile that can boost your confidence and enhance your appearance.
When performed by a professional like Dr. Brookes, teeth whitening is generally safe and effective. However, it's not suitable for everyone. If you have gum disease, sensitive teeth, or other dental issues, teeth whitening could potentially cause discomfort or exacerbate existing problems. That's why it's crucial to have a dental examination before undergoing teeth whitening.
The length of the teeth whitening process can vary depending on the method used and the degree of discoloration. In-office whitening treatments typically take about an hour, while at-home treatments can take a few weeks to show results. Dr. Brookes will discuss your options and help you choose the best method based on your needs and preferences.
Teeth whitening results can last anywhere from a few months to a few years, depending on your diet, oral hygiene habits, and whether you smoke or consume staining substances like coffee, tea, or wine. Regular touch-up treatments can help maintain your results. Dr. Brookes can provide advice on how to prolong your teeth whitening results.
Teeth whitening treatments are most effective on natural tooth enamel and will not change the color of dental work such as crowns, veneers, or fillings. If you have visible dental work, whitening your natural teeth may result in a color mismatch. In such cases, Dr. Brookes may recommend alternative cosmetic treatments to achieve a uniform smile. It's important to discuss your specific situation during your consultation so we can develop the most appropriate treatment plan for your needs.
While teeth whitening is generally safe, some people may experience temporary side effects. The most common is increased tooth sensitivity, especially to hot and cold temperatures. This usually subsides within a few days after treatment. Some patients may also experience mild gum irritation. At our Acacia Dental Care, Dr. Brookes takes precautions to minimize these side effects and will provide you with instructions on how to manage any discomfort. If you have a history of sensitive teeth, we may recommend a special desensitizing toothpaste before and after your whitening treatment.
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