Although there has been an awareness among people about teeth whitening and other cosmetic dental treatments, there are still many questions in people’s minds that need answers. It is these questions that block people from actually undergoing cosmetic treatments. However, once the answers are clear, people can overcome their hesitation and proceed with the treatment they want.
Now, coming to teeth whitening treatment in particular, here are some expert answers to the most commonly asked questions from common people.
- What is teeth whitening?
It is a cosmetic dental procedure performed to overcome discoloration or yellowed teeth. In this procedure, a certified professional lightens the tooth color with the help of approved bleaching agents and laser-like, powerful lights. Notably, this is not a functional treatment that helps resolve a dental issue. Instead, it is a cosmetic treatment that improves the dental aesthetics.
- Is it a safe procedure?
Of course, it is 100% safe when an experienced dentist performs the procedure or suggests trying out selective over-the-counter techniques. Because a dentist examines the use case, refers to the previous history, and then recommends the best possible solution that is American Dental Association-approved.
- Who is eligible for this treatment?
Certainly, anyone willing to improve their smile or teeth color can prefer this treatment. Having said that, in any case, it is not suitable for children, pregnant women, or breastfeeding women. Also, those people who are currently experiencing other dental issues, like missing crowns, damaged dentures, broken bridges, etc., cannot undergo the treatment unless they have their existing issues treated.
- What are the causes of discoloration?
By nature, only newborns show white teeth. The permanent teeth that replace baby’s teeth are slightly yellow and not perfectly milk or pearl white. Over time and as we age, the yellow might get prominent, making people think about teeth whitening. Some of the notable causes of discoloration include frequent intake of coffee or colored fruits like berries, wear and tear through aging, genetics, and regular selective medications.
- Will this treatment damage my enamel?
Professional or in-office teeth whitening treatments do not damage the enamel, as dentists are well-trained and are aware of do’s and don’ts. However, people opting for home remedies or over-the-counter options might end up damaging their enamel if not done with proper care. In this case, the enamel gets damaged, leading to demineralization and increased sensitivity.
- Will this treatment hurt or cause pain?
Again, it depends on the type of treatment you choose. When opting for professional treatment, numbing cream or agents are used. A little sensitivity may be experienced, which fades away in the next two or three days. On the other hand, when performed by yourself, you might incur some pain or discomfort, which fades away within 3–6 days.
- Who approves these professional treatments and products?
The ADA (American Dental Association) and the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) entities need to approve every product or medical equipment before it is commercialized and becomes popular among the public and dental clinics. In addition, it is the ‘State Boards of Dentistry’ that certifies a dentist eligible to perform the procedure.
- Professional services Vs. Over-the-counter: which is best?
Needless to mention, always professional services are the best as it is performed under a controlled environment and by licensed dentists. But this does not mean the quality of OTC products is low or sub-standard. There are several quality OTC dental whitening kits available on the market. So, the difference lies in the whitening quality achieved, the controlled environment set, and how little the enamel or crowns are damaged.
- How do in-office teeth whitening procedures work?
The procedure begins with preparing the teeth, protecting the gums and lips, and applying the numbing cream. Once it is all set, the peroxide-based bleaching agent is applied to the surface of the teeth. Further, a laser-like light is impulsed to activate the bleaching agent and oxidize or break the chromogen molecules responsible for yellowed or stained teeth. This replaces your yellowed teeth with white teeth. The shades are reduced based on the quality of agents, the light used, and, most importantly, how experienced the dentist is.
- Will this work on veneers and dentures?
Unfortunately, teeth whitening does not work on dentures and veneers. Instead, a stained or discolored denture or veneer needs a cleaning solution that helps with whitening. In another case, where a veneer or denture is whiter than natural teeth, then the procedure can be performed on the natural tooth.
- Does insurance cover this treatment?
Most dental insurance packages cover only functional treatments and not aesthetic treatments, like teeth whitening. Yet, it also depends on the package you choose and the support you receive from your dental wellness clinic or hospital. So, better to consult your dentist and insurance executive to get it clarified.
- How long do the results last?
While OTC treatments, like whitening toothpaste, rinsers, trays, gels, and mouthwashes, can last only up to a few weeks, professional teeth whitening by a dentist can last for up to three or four years. If well-maintained, the whitening can extend up to even five years. Irrespective of OTC or in-office treatments, the quality of oral hygiene plays an important role in influencing the life of whitners.
- What are the to-dos before and after the procedure?
Before the procedure, the dentist will expect you to come for cleanups. And after the procedure, you will have to follow the guidelines in order to prevent staining of newly whitened teeth, such as drinking coffee, wine, etc. Also, you will have to attend the follow-up check-ups as recommended by your dentist.
- Why is professional service better for this treatment?
Professional whitening services are provided by licensed and certified dentists who are well-versed in the ins and outs of the tooth and mouth. Moreover, when they perform this treatment, they ensure the gums, lips, and enamel are not damaged. In fact, leading dental care centres like Pristine Dental and Orthodontics thoroughly examine each patient before the procedure and offer seamless after-care services. This expertise and experience are the differentiators of a professional service and DIYs/ OTC options.
- Are home remedies better for teeth whitening?
Home remedies, like Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse, Baking Soda Paste, and Sesame Oil Pulling, are promising but still feature more complications and risks than the benefits they offer. For example, apple cider is acidic in nature and might help remove stains or discoloration. At the same time, chances for it to erode the enamel are also higher.