The Important Facts About Teeth-Whitening

Teeth-whitening is so popular these days that, sometimes, it can seem like there isn’t much more you can know about it. However, many people suffer their stained teeth for far longer than they have to because they don’t realize how effective and convenient professional teeth-whitening is. At our Gary, IN, dental office, we can recommend a choice of teeth-whitening options designed to fit your schedule conveniently while effectively erasing stains and brightening your smile. For example, if you’re in a hurry, we can perform teeth-whitening at our office in just a single visit. Or, we can design a kit that includes a set of custom trays and a supply of gel for you to brighten your smile at home.

How it erases teeth stains

Despite the fact that teeth-whitening products can be bought over-the-counter these days, OTC products do not work the same as professional teeth-whitening treatment. Both are topical solutions that you apply to your teeth, but professional treatment involves the use of a strong, but safe, bleaching agent prescribed by your dentist. Professional-strength gel works to break up the staining deposits on the surfaces of your teeth – even the tough ones – and brighten the structures underneath them, reviving your smile’s healthy, youthful appearance.

How long the procedure lasts

Teeth-whitening is designed to fit your schedule, and can last just over an hour (for in-office treatment) or about 10 days (for at-home treatment). At our office, we’ll carefully apply the whitening gel to the surfaces of your teeth, then stimulate it with a special light to rapidly remove the stains from your teeth. We may repeat the process for optimal results, though appointments usually last just over an hour, at most. To brighten your teeth at home, you can use your custom-designed trays to carefully and evenly apply the gel to your teeth for an hour or two each day. After about 10 days, the gel should completely erase your teeth stains and brighten your smile’s appearance.

How long the results will last

Professional teeth-whitening is highly effective at erasing the stains that develop on your teeth and mar their appearance. However, many of these stains can occur naturally, and how long the results of your whitening treatment last depends largely on how well you care for your teeth afterward. For example, practicing excellent hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth every day, as well as attending regular checkup and cleaning appointments, will help you prevent the accumulation of stains on your teeth for longer.

Brighten your smile with professional teeth-whitening

With the right professional teeth-whitening treatment, you can brighten your teeth quickly and get back to enjoying the smile you deserve. To learn more, schedule your visit with Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry in Gary, IN, today by calling 219-938-2637.