Teeth Whitening in Appleton

Why Is Teeth Whitening at the Dentist's Office a Good Idea?

The primary reason to have a dentist perform your teeth whitening is the safety and security of having it done correctly. Your dentist will protect your gums and ensure you're getting the correct dose of a bleaching agent. If you have veneers or a crown, these won't get whiter. You want your other teeth to match the color of your restorations. A dentist experienced in teeth whitening can do this and also tell you if there are intrinsic (inside) stains that no amount of whitening can change, such as teeth discolored by antibiotic use. A skilled dentist can suggest options for a tooth that can't change color, such as veneers or bonding.

The next reason is important to many people. It's speed. You go to your dentist's office and come out in an hour or two with whiter and brighter teeth. Imagine getting married in a week and wanting to look your best in the many photos and videos. You can't accomplish this with a whitening toothpaste. The procedure is also ideal if you have any other important event coming up, like a job interview, or you just want more confidence.

What Is Professional Teeth Whitening at Home?

If you don't want to have a teeth whitening procedure at your dentist's office, you have options. There is dentist-supervised teeth whitening at home with a dentist-prescribed teeth whitening agent. You can go to your dentist and get a custom tray and formula to use at home. The DIY whitening kits you can buy at a drugstore are not custom made and may irritate your gums or produce uneven results. It will take about two weeks to get whiter teeth this way.

What Is the Typical Teeth Whitening Cost?

Your teeth bleaching cost depends on several factors, including the system your teeth bleaching dentist suggests and whether you'll need any follow-up treatments. If you ask your dentist, he or she can give you an estimate, so you can decide if you want to invest in a dazzling smile. Dental insurance typically does not cover cosmetic procedures. You can always ask us about financing options and the payment methods we accept.

What Is the Difference Between DIY Teeth Whitening Products and Those Used by a Dentist?

There is no way a teeth whitening product you can buy at a drugstore will work as well as a whitening procedure you have at a dental office. It does not matter if you buy a toothpaste, strips or another product; they simply are not strong enough. If you only want to lighten your teeth a shade or two, then drugstore products are fine, but this is all you'll accomplish.

The second reason is the speed of the results. If you have your wedding, an important job interview, or other important event coming up, you may want dramatic, fast results.

What Is the Whitening Procedure?

When you go to a dentist for teeth whitening, your procedure will go like this.

1. You will start by getting a dental exam to look for any issues, like decay or gum disease, that your dentist will recommend you address first. He or she will also look at your resting restorations, if you have any, and tell you that he or she can match their color as teeth whitening will not affect change their appearance.
2. Next, you'll have your teeth professionally cleaned. Then, the dentist will most likely take a picture of your teeth to gauge the effectiveness of the procedure.
3. For your protection, and to make it easier to whiten your visible teeth, you'll have a cheek retractor placed in your mouth. You'll also have a barrier put on your gums.
4. You'll have a solution of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide put on your teeth, removed after a set time and periodically reapplied. You may have a special light applied.
5. When you're finished, you'll receive instructions on how to limit temporary sensitivity and keep your results as long as possible.

Expect to be in the chair for an hour or an hour and a half.

If you believe you could benefit from a gleaming smile, please contact us about teeth whitening in Appleton. We would love to help you get the smile you deserve.