Now that March is here, many people are looking forward to spring and the longer days and warmer temperatures that it brings. With graduation parties, picnics, and other seasonal gatherings on the horizon, you may be thinking about refreshing your smile.
One of the best ways to do that is with professional teeth whitening.
At the Center for Implant & Esthetic Dentistry in Beverly Hills, California, Dr. Ramin Mahallati and our team regularly use this treatment to eliminate stains and help people feel their best.
Below are five facts about professional teeth whitening that highlight why it’s one of the most popular types of cosmetic dentistry. By the time you’re finished reading, you’ll have a better idea of whether it’s right for you.
Many people use over-the-counter (OTC) teeth whitening treatments because they’re convenient and relatively cheap. But even if you follow the instructions on the package, it can take weeks or months to see noticeable results.
Professional teeth whitening is different in that it can make your smile up to eight shades lighter in a single session.*
This means that after one visit, you can feel confident attending a wedding, graduation, or photo shoot without having to dedicate weeks or months to daily whitening treatments.
Many people who use OTC whitening treatments say their results are spotty or inconsistent. For example, your front teeth might look significantly brighter, but those toward the back of your mouth may remain brown or yellow.
Because professional teeth whitening treatment is applied by a dentist, it provides even whitening across all of your teeth. We can even tailor the color to your tooth enamel, so the results look completely natural.
Over-the-counter whitening treatments often contain peroxide-based ingredients that can irritate your gums and tongue if they’re applied incorrectly. If you don’t follow the directions exactly, these products can also weaken your enamel and increase the risk of tooth sensitivity.
Before completing professional teeth whitening, we cover your tongue and gums with a protective dam. We also apply a controlled amount of the solution to each tooth, helping protect your enamel and overall oral health.
When your teeth are white and stain-free, you tend to smile more. That can make you more approachable and boost your confidence and outlook. For example, you may feel more comfortable attending social events or engaging with people you’d normally avoid.
Many people also say that after teeth whitening, they’re more motivated to practice good oral hygiene. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash can help preserve your results and keep your smile looking bright.
The results of professional teeth whitening can last three, four, or even six months if you practice good oral hygiene. Still, we typically encourage patients to schedule maintenance treatments once or twice a year.
There are also steps you can take at home to prevent stains from returning. For example, if you drink coffee or soda, consider using a straw when possible. Likewise, brushing and flossing daily and quitting smoking or chewing tobacco can help maintain your results.
If you’re unhappy with stained or discolored teeth, professional teeth whitening can brighten your smile and help you feel your best. With spring just around the corner, now is the perfect time to act.
Contact the Center for Implant & Esthetic Dentistry today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mahallati at our office in Beverly Hills.
*Individual results may vary.
