Miami Teeth Whitening
We’re all born with sparkly, pearly whites, but after decades of use, wear and tear and staining elements like soda, tea, coffee, and wine; the chances of retaining your teeth’s original white hue are slim to none. No matter how diligent you are about brushing and flossing, your teeth simply start to yellow with time – and while it’s a normal progression that happens to all of us, it is still deemed more aesthetically pleasing to see a whiter smile than a yellow one. White teeth are associated with a clean, healthy mouth and an attractive face, which is why civilizations have been finding different methods of whitening, dating all the way to ancient Egyptian times. In the last decade or so, it has become the most popular smile enhancing procedure in the U.S. For patients considering teeth whitening, here’s what they should know about the procedure.
Do I Need Teeth Whitening?
Teeth Whitening is recommended for patients who want a brighter, whiter smile, have embarrassing dark spots or discoloration or feel self-conscious about showing their teeth in public due to gradual yellowing. It is a cosmetic procedure that can make you feel amazing when you see the results.
What Does the Procedure Consist of?
At Ultra Smile Dentistry, teeth whitening is performed in-office using a product called Boost. Unlike other procedures, there is no uncomfortable hot light involved; the whitening agent, Boost, is a 40% hydrogen peroxide gel that is chemically activated. After a dental dam is applied to your gums to protect the gum line from the product, it takes approximately 40 minutes and you will leave the office with noticeable results. Patients might feel sensitivity in their teeth for the next 24 hours or so, but it is recommended to use a desensitizing toothpaste for up to 2 weeks prior to undergoing the whitening process.
How Much Does the Procedure Cost?
Typically, teeth whitening can cost a few hundred dollars. At Ultra Smile Dentistry, however, it is complimentary with the purchase of an exam or cleaning.
What Happens After the Whitening?
We recommend using Opalescence whitening toothpaste to maintain the results. Great home oral care is called for, of course, such as proper flossing and brushing. Regular cleanings and drinking staining liquids through straws will help preserve your teeth’s newfound white shade. Periodic follow-up whitening sessions will also be crucial to keeping your teeth as good as new. Because you are realistically not going to stop every activity that causing wear and tear, such as eating and drinking staining agents, your results won’t be permanent and you will need to return periodically to keep your results. If you can help it, it is recommended to cut out using tobacco so that it does not reverse the effects of the whitening.
Is it Safe and Will it Damage My Teeth?
Teeth whitening seems to get a bad rap simply because of the cautionary advisories pregnant women get against it, but the truth is, that is simply a preventative measure taken in case of anything. The truth is, teeth whitening is a safe procedure that is performed in-office by the dental professional. The procedure has gone through studies and there has been no evidence found that the procedure either harms overall health or that it harms the enamel of your teeth. Even if you have restorations in your mouth, the teeth whitening product will not negatively affect those.