For those looking to achieve a whiter, brighter smile, a cosmetic dentist can help people meet their goals with satisfying and long-lasting results. A professional tooth whitening is a relatively simple and straightforward procedure. However, it is important that patients understand the process and necessary follow-up care to enjoy a more favorable outcome.
When a dental patient experiences a yellowing or discoloration of the teeth, a whitening treatment can help remove years of staining for a more beautiful smile. As preparation, a cosmetic dentist may recommend a routine cleaning from a general dentist to remove any plaque or tartar buildup. During treatment, a whitening solution or gel is brushed onto the surface of each affected tooth. Many times, this solution is cured with a blue light to activate the ingredients for more noticeable results. Depending on the level of staining and treatment plan chosen, a patient may need one or multiple whitening sessions.
Due to the nature and composition of whitening treatments, tooth enamel is temporarily weakened. This process breaks down some of the surface minerals to remove deep staining. As a result, it is critical to take certain precautions to protect the teeth and prevent stains from recurring.
After a whitening treatment, a cosmetic dentist will likely address several areas to ensure the patient is utilizing proper home care. If patients are unsure about which products to use or avoid, they should contact the office first, rather than run the risk of ruining a recent treatment.
The natural process of remineralizing the teeth can take anywhere from 24-72 hours, depending on overall oral health and the type of whitening treatment used. Patients should take extra care to follow these rules during the first two or three days after a whitening treatment. However, for more lasting results, it is wise to make a habit out of whitening follow-up practices.
Patients should wait to brush and floss for at least one hour after a whitening treatment from a cosmetic dentist. Once it is safe to resume oral home care, a soft-bristled brush should be used in a gentle, circular motion to avoid enamel loss. A high-fluoride toothpaste is recommended.
Most dentists recommend a white or clear food diet after treatment. Patients should avoid foods and beverages that can contribute to staining, such as:
Also, patients should not smoke or use tobacco products. Many experts also recommend that lipsticks be avoided, as these can seep onto the teeth during use.
Tooth sensitivity is common after a whitening treatment of any kind. While it typically subsides after a few days, some patients experience lingering effects. Using a toothpaste and mouth rinse designed to combat sensitivity can be helpful. In addition, patients should avoid extremely hot, cold, or acidic foods until the discomfort subsides.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Cosmetic Dentist Teeth Whitening in Albuquerque, NM
A professional tooth whitening from a cosmetic dentist can help remove stains for a stunning smile. However, proper follow-up care is required to maintain results both immediately and long term.
Request an appointment or call Family Choice Dental at 505-634-5657 for an appointment in our Albuquerque office.
Cosmetic dentistry can help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile. A general dentist can assess your mouth and perform some of the treatments you need. You can also get a referral to another dental care provider for more complex treatments. Here are the common cosmetic dentistry procedures that you should consider.This field of dentistry…
Have you noticed that bright white smiles are no longer limited to Hollywood's elite? These days you see brilliant grins everywhere on a wide variety of people. These beautiful teeth are not just the product of good dental hygiene or fortunate genes. Cosmetic dentistry is playing a large part. There may have been a time…
Everyone wants a beautiful smile with the help of cosmetic dentistry. When you flash your mega-watt grin, you want to know that your teeth are beautifully white and perfectly aligned. What many people do not realize is that cosmetic dental procedures are about more than creating a gorgeous smile. They are also quite helpful for…