Teeth Whitening
Katy, TX
Teeth Whitening provided by Dr. Melissa Wilson
in Katy, TX at Wilson Dentistry
 Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves the use of bleaching agents to remove stains and discoloration from the teeth. It is a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of teeth and can be done in-office or at home using a customized tray and whitening gel.
The treatment can help remove surface stains caused by food, drink, and tobacco use, as well as deeper stains caused by aging and certain medications. Results can last for several months to a year, depending on individual factors such as oral hygiene habits and lifestyle choices.
How does teeth whitening work?
Teeth whitening works by using bleaching agents, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to penetrate the enamel of the teeth and break down stains and discoloration. The active ingredient in the bleaching agent reacts with the molecules that cause the stains, breaking them down into smaller, less visible particles.
This process can be done in-office with a stronger concentration of the bleaching agent or at home with a customized tray and lower concentration of the bleaching agent. The length and frequency of treatment can vary depending on the individual's needs and desired level of whitening.
How long does teeth whitening last?
The longevity of teeth whitening can vary depending on the individual's oral hygiene habits and lifestyle choices. In general, teeth whitening can last for several months to a year or more.
Factors that can affect the duration of teeth whitening include the type and intensity of the stain, the strength of the whitening treatment, and the individual's diet and habits, such as smoking or consuming dark-colored beverages. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, and avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks can help prolong the effects of teeth whitening.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Teeth whitening is generally considered safe when done under the supervision of a dental professional. The bleaching agents used in teeth whitening have been extensively studied and shown to be safe for use in the mouth. However, some individuals may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation during or after the treatment.
It is important to follow the instructions provided by the dental professional and avoid overuse or misuse of the whitening products. Seeking guidance from a dental professional can help ensure that teeth whitening is done safely and effectively.
The Science Behind Whitening Agents
Teeth whitening, also identified as teeth bleaching, is a dental procedure for lightening one's natural teeth. The process is most desired when teeth blemish or yellow over time. Teeth bleaching is achieved by altering a tooth's enamel's intrinsic or extrinsic shade.
In-Office vs. At-Home Whitening
Teeth whitening procedure is offered in an in-office setting by a professional dentist. There are also at-home whitening procedures that could be done individually. However, dentists have to determine whether it is safe to undergo a whitening process.
In-office whitening is typically the fastest way to achieve a brighter smile. Results may be achieved in one hour.
After the shade is chosen, dental devices like retractors pull back the lips and cheeks. The teeth are polished, rinsed, and dried, and a substance, a gingival barrier, is applied along the gum line on the top and bottom teeth to clean and protect the gums from bleach. A curing light is used to dry the barrier, and the bleaching gel is applied to the teeth using a small brush.
The gel contains high volumes of hydrogen peroxide. The gel has to be left on the teeth at intervals of 20 minutes with a special laser curing light aimed at the teeth. The laser light helps accelerate the whitening effect. The gel is removed and reapplied between these intervals for about an hour, depending on the amount of staining.
After whitening, the gel and gingival barrier are rinsed off, and the dentist may apply fluoride to the teeth to reduce sensitivity. We will also recommend home care tips to maintain the shade. Dentists recommend custom-made teeth trays to take home after a whitening procedure. This help continues the bleaching at home using recommended bleaching gels.
Home bleaching procedures also help gradually brighten teeth. OTC whitening kits include gels, pens, or strips are the most convenient and inexpensive methods to achieve a brighter smile. However, compared to in-office whitening, they contain a lower chemical concentration of bleach and take longer to effect.
Whitening toothpaste is also used in at-home whitening. Home whitening methods mostly lighten the whiter teeth more than the posterior teeth and are not the most effective method to achieve desired results.
Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Teeth?
Teeth whitening does not damage your teeth, but can cause gum and tooth sensitivity. It is for this reason that we treat any existing conditions before performing a teeth whitening treatment.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
During the first whitening appointment, the dentist thoroughly examines your mouth visually and using digital devices like x-rays. Our Katy dentist checks for cavities and gingival health. This examination enables us to formulate a custom treatment plan, including removing cavities and restoring oral health before whitening. It also helps avert the possibility of complications such as extreme sensitivity.
Teeth Whitening and Other Dental Restorations
It is unsafe to whiten or bleach teeth if you have unhealthy or unrestored teeth. Suppose you have a dental prosthesis or lots of restorations like crowns, experience tooth sensitivity or severe discolorations or spots. In that case, you must visit a professional dentist before trying at-home whitening techniques. Visit us at to have your teeth whitened.
How Long after Teeth Whitening Can I Eat Normally?
Avoiding staining foods and drinks or any product that can dull teeth like tobacco and wine should be avoided at least for the first few weeks after whitening helps maintain the shade.
What to Eat after Teeth Whitening?
It is vital to maintain good oral hygiene, a nutrient-dense diet, regular dental cleanings, kick out lifestyle habits that could stain teeth, and visit the dentist at least every six months for touch-ups.
Schedule Teeth Whitening in Katy, TX Today!
If you or your loved one would like a brighter and whiter smile from an in-office whitening process or a home-whitening process, come see our Katy dental professionals at Wilson Dentistry or call (346) 340-5440 today! |
