Teeth Whitening: What to Know Before Your Appointment

White teeth are a great source of confidence for everyone and are typically at the top of the list of smile goals for most people. However, do you really know what is causing discoloration in your teeth or if professional teeth whitening services are right for you? We’re here to help you figure that out!

What is Tooth Whitening?

Tooth whitening is the process by which an individual or dental professional goes about making the natural teeth whiter. There are a number of different techniques for teeth whitening including sanding down stains, UV light therapy, and brush-on gels. Here at the Beyond Dental Health office in Cohasset, MA, we opt for the final option, using a strong but safe gel that works to rid your teeth of yellow discoloration.

What Causes Discoloration?

Discoloration in the teeth can come from a number of causes like diet, aging, and even medication. For example, you might notice that your teeth have become more yellow after drinking a lot of coffee, teas, sodas, or red wine. Other examples of things that can stain the teeth include various medications, illnesses, smoking, and poor dental hygiene. Needless to say, many of the causes of discoloration come from everyday activities and teeth whitening services are a great way to help reduce the severity of these stains.

A Little Staining Doesn’t Bother Me – Why Should I Get a Whitening Treatment?

A little staining of the teeth has never hurt anyone, however, there are other benefits of teeth whitening treatments to consider before deciding they aren’t for you. Research has shown that having a white smile can help to psychologically reinforce oral hygiene habits. Want to make sure you stay on top of your brushing and flossing? Then get your teeth whitened to see if the treatment will subconsciously make you brush and floss more often!

Why Should I Come into the Office when At-Home Kits are Available?

There are multiple benefits to having your teeth whitened in the dental office versus getting at-home teeth whitening products. For starters, at-home gel kits sold at your local pharmacy typically have a lower concentration of active ingredients than those used in the office. This means that results from the office will be visible much more quicker than those from the kit. The at-home kits typically take weeks to see real results, while in-office teeth whitening treatments can take as little as one visit!

Are there Side Effects?

Side effects of teeth whitening procedures are minimal and usually last a few days at most. The most commonly reported side effect is of tooth sensitivity to very hot or cold food and drink items. Other complaints may include gum discomfort or a sore throat.

Am I a Candidate?

Anyone with natural teeth is a candidate for tooth whitening services! As of now, veneers and artificial teeth are not viable for the treatment.

If you think you are ready to take the next step in your smile journey, call (781) 236-6491 for teeth whitening appointment at our Beyond Dental Health office in Cohasset! If you can’t make it to our Cohasset office we have three other South Shore locations in Abington, Hanson, and South Weymouth for your convenience.

Book an appointment today and let’s get started on your journey to a brighter, whiter smile!

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