Are you dissatisfied with over-the-counter teeth whitening products? Maybe you don’t like the fuss and bother that come with professional at-home kits? Professional teeth whitening has been gaining popularity for those who want to receive optimum results in a relatively short time. Do you want to get rid of teeth stains under the supervision of a dentist? Here are some things you can expect from professional teeth whitening:
 

Before the Session

Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure. While it’s not invasive, it does change the appearance of your teeth. Before scheduling your treatment, see your dentist for a dental examination and request a full cleaning. Your checkup will help your dentist determine if the professional teeth-whitening treatment they offer is right for your teeth stains. Discoloration from certain foods, drinks, and tobacco use is usually easy to remove. But stains caused by a disease or use of certain medications generally need more intense whitening procedures. Once your dentist identifies the cause of your teeth stains, they can recommend the best course of action. Besides, they might help you save money if they found out that a professional treatment will not improve the color of your teeth.
 

During the Session

In-office treatment is a simple procedure that could take about an hour or two to complete. While it’s not a very complicated procedure, it does need skill and training. This way, your dentist can avoid causing injury to your gum area. Expensive tools and equipment are also typically required to prepare and finish the whitening process. Expect several standard steps during your professional teeth-whitening session. It starts with your dentist making a record of the current shade of your teeth. They will polish your teeth with pumice, then they will isolate your mouth with gauze to keep your teeth dry.

Your dentist will likely use retractors to keep the soft tissues in your mouth away from the bleaching solution. They will also put a barrier along your gum line to protect them from getting exposed to the solution. Your dentist will then coat the front surface of your teeth with the bleaching solution. Most solutions need a curing light or laser to activate the bleaching agents. Once applied, they will leave the solution on your teeth for about 30 minutes to an hour. Your dentist will re-apply the solution as needed, depending on the brand. They will then rinse your teeth once they’ve reached the desired shade or as soon as a certain maximum time has passed. They may apply fluoride if you experience any tooth sensitivity. Your dentist will schedule additional visits until the optimum shade is achieved.

Upon completing the treatment procedure, your dentist will ask you to avoid highly pigmented foods and drinks at least for the next 24 hours. You also have to avoid tobacco use.

Do you want a brighter, more beautiful smile that’s 10 shades whiter within just a single afternoon? Schedule your dental checkup today with our oral health care professionals at Le Smile Aesthetic & Comprehensive Dentistry in Vienna or Fall Church, Virginia, to book your appointment.

Learn more about professional teeth whitening, contact Le Smile Aesthetic & Comprehensive Dentistry in Vienna or Fall Church, VA at (703) 448-3527.