We all seek that striking, million-dollar smile that Hollywood stars seemingly sport with impunity. A bright and glowing smile can be a confidence booster. While an array of teeth whitening products are readily available on store shelves today, many people opt for a professional touch, like seeking a dentist in Paramatta for a more pronounced and long-lasting effect.
But hold on! Before you make an appointment for teeth whitening, let’s delve into what you should know up-front. This handy guide will explain the requirements for teeth whitening.
Table of Contents
Evaluate Your Dental Health First
Teeth whitening is an aesthetic procedure, but it’s not for everyone. You must have a comprehensive dental exam first because this procedure works best for people with healthy gums and teeth.
If you have cavities, tooth decay, exposed roots or receding gums, addressing these issues before undergoing whitening treatments is essential. Further, certain restorations such as crowns, veneers, fillings or bridges do not whiten like natural teeth. Therefore, whitening might lead to uneven colouration if you have many of these dental works.
Knowing If You Are a Suitable Candidate
After confirming your dental health, knowing if you are suitable for teeth whitening is equally vital. This procedure works splendidly on yellow teeth, but unfortunately, it might not bring the desired results if your teeth have grey shades, which could be due to certain medications or genetic factors.
Other conditions that may render you an unsuitable candidate for teeth whitening include:
- Having sensitive teeth.
- If you’re pregnant or are breastfeeding.
- Peroxide allergies.
So, having realistic expectations before the procedure and discussing potential outcomes with your dentist is important.
Mind Your Age and Habits
Dental health experts recommend teeth whitening only for patients 16 years or older. During adolescence, the pulp chamber is enlarged and can increase the sensitivity during bleaching.
Beyond age, habits like smoking can affect the long-term result of teeth whitening. You might have to bid adieu to your love for coffee, tea, or red wine to maintain the whiteness, as these can stain your teeth over time.
The Sensitivity Issue
For those with sensitive teeth, teeth whitening might seem like a daunting prospect. The process could lead to temporary sensitivity, which might be a significant deterrent for some. However, many modern professional whitening treatments now include desensitising agents like potassium nitrate or fluoride, making this much more manageable.
Always read up or consult with your dental healthcare provider to fully understand the ins and outs as well as your suitability for these workarounds.
The Safety Notion
Many people question the safety of teeth whitening. With each new YouTube DIY whitening video or luxury spa offering teeth whitening, it’s understandable to feel bewildered. Rest assured, teeth whitening procedures are usually safe when done under professional supervision. The dentist’s expertise will ensure that all parts of your mouth, particularly your gums, remain safe throughout the process.
Professional Help vs. At-Home Kits
While at-home kits might seem tempting with their affordability and convenience, they don’t produce the same results and may not be as safe as professional help. A dentist can offer personalised treatment, considering your teeth’ uniqueness. While over-the-counter products use a “one-size-fits-all” approach, professional treatment ensures you receive the appropriate concentration of whitening solution, leading to better, safer results.
Conclusion
It would be best to undertake several deliberations before deciding on teeth whitening, like seeking the right dentist in Paramatta. Remember: a brighter, whiter smile is achievable, but the process must be safe and effective. Additionally, there are limits to the results a teeth whitening procedure can attain. So, consult your trusted dental professional and light up the world with your dazzling smile!