What is Teeth Whitening?

dental patient smiling teeth whitening

Teeth Whitening Manassas VA

Many patients desire to have sparkling, bright teeth. However, some patients may struggle with discolored and stained teeth. These issues are common as they often occur due to old age, certain medications, staining foods and beverages, and tobacco use. Thankfully, teeth can easily be whiten at your dentist with in-office teeth whitening treatment. Learn more below and contact Pop Smiles Dentistry to learn more. 

What is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening, also known as bleaching, is a dental cosmetic procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the teeth by removing stains and discoloration. The process is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures undertaken in dental clinics around the world.

Teeth whitening is achieved with a bleaching agent which is usually peroxide-based. Professional teeth whitening can be performed at home. However, for faster results, patients can choose in-office  whitening. This option is typically performed in under two hours with results lasting up to 3 years.

dental patient smiling teeth whitening manassas va

Why Are My Teeth Discolored?

Daily, a thin layer of coating forms over the tooth surface, inhibiting the ability of the tooth to reflect light, interfering with its natural color. Over time, the original color of the tooth is lost, as the coating takes over the surface of the teeth. Other causes of teeth discoloration include the use of tobacco, drinking dark-colored liquids, and poor oral hygiene practices. Aging can also result in the teeth losing its natural, brighter look as the tooth’s enamel becomes thinner, and the dentin darkens.  

Whitening helps remove the coating, discoloration, and stains. The result is sparkling, white teeth that are stronger, appealing, and beautiful in color. Teeth whitening helps one regain their self-confidence, as clean and whiter teeth improve one the courage and confidence in talking in front of people.

In-Office Teeth Whitening Benefits

In-office whitening allows for close supervision from a professional dentist, which is essential in monitoring the progress of the entire process. To achieve the desired results, the procedure is undertaken over from time to time, and with the guidance and supervision of the dentist, you are likely to make your intended goal.

Excessive use of the bleaching agent can negatively impact on the stability, structure, and sensitivity of the teeth. Using too little of the bleaching agent will also not achieve the intended goal, which is getting the teeth to be brighter and cleaner. It is, therefore, important that the entire bleaching procedure is undertaken by a qualified, skilled, and professional dentist for the best ultimate results.

Procedure

A thorough dental examination, assessment, and medical history is needed before treatment. A medical history is essential in ruling out extensive tooth decay, tooth sensitivity, and receding gums, conditions that do not need teeth whitening.  Aso, the dentist may recommend a radiological examination like X-rays before starting the procedure.

The first step in the whitening is doing a general cleaning of the teeth, removing the film of bacteria, and food residues between the teeth. Next, the dentist then applies the whitening gel over the teeth precisely, held into place by specialized trays.

Additionally, the dentist will repeat the procedure over several visits to achieve the intended result. Finally, dentist takes note of the progress on each visit, ensuring that the process is done to perfection, to avoid the undesired effects.

Learn More

Teeth whitening is great cosmetic procedure that enhances your smile. Learn more with a consultation today. Call (703) 844-0404 or book a consultation online. New patients are always welcomed.