Teeth Whitening Treatment in San Jose

A person's smile is one of the first things that other people notice about them. Therefore, having a beautiful smile is often very important to people. Teeth whitening is a great affordable way to get you a bright set of teeth in a short amount of time. Teeth whitening is a treatment to lighten your teeth without destroying your enamel. There are a large number of whitening options to choose from but the best method is to visit a professional dentist. Dentist-prescribed whitening offers better results than over-the-counter products.

Do You Need Teeth Whitening?

There are a number of reasons why you might get your teeth whitened. Everybody has a different set of teeth and some people are more susceptible to staining than others. The most common reasons for teeth to get yellow or stained are:

Smoking or drinking liquids that may stain your teeth.
Not taking care of your teeth and not brushing on a regular basis.
Age is also a factor that causes teeth discoloration.
Eating berries or food with large amounts of food coloring.
Tartar, which is stains the tooth below the surface.

How Does the Procedure Work?

A professional teeth bleaching ensures that you get the best results. Before the procedure, you will consult with your dentist. Your dentist will be able to tell you if you are suitable for the treatment. A dental tray will be made according to your requirements and a gel will be put on your gums to protect them. They will then apply the whitening product to your teeth. The chemical in the whitening product is usually hydrogen peroxide which when broken down is acted upon by oxygen, and this whitens the tooth.

How Much Time Does the Treatment Take?

The duration of your treatment will depend on the strength of the whitening gel. One can opt for an overnight whitening treatment or follow the instructions of the dentist. The entire procedure takes around 2 weeks and you must wear your dental tray for 15 minutes daily. The effects of the procedure will last anywhere from 6 months to a year. You will also have to come back for further touch-ups after a few months. You must also refrain from over-whitening which can cause permanent enamel erosion.

How Much Does the Procedure Cost?

Charges will vary from practice to practice and region to region. Laser or power whitening is expensive than compared to professional bleaching. Generally, over-the-counter whitening kits are much cheaper than professional whitening, but the whitening procedure is more effective when you have a dentist by your side. This helps to eliminate any risks that could take place as well as gives you the best treatment.

How Long Does the Effect of the Whitening Last?

The effect of teeth whitening can last as long as 3 years, provided that you go for regular touch-ups as recommended by your dentist. For optimal results, you should maintain regular whitening touch ups which you may require every six months or so. You should never perform whitening without the recommendation of your dentist. Too much whitening can cause permanent sensitivity and enamel erosion.

What are the Side Effects of Teeth Whitening?

Many of the side effects that people face after whitening their teeth are temporary. Some people may find that their teeth become sensitive to cold during or after the treatment. Others may have discomfort in the gums, a sore throat or white patches on the gum line. These symptoms should disappear within a few days of the treatment finishing. Women should not have their teeth whitened while pregnant since the procedure involves the use of chemicals that are harmful to the growing fetus. If any of these side effects continue you should go to your dentist. With proper consultation, you do not have to worry about the procedure. Your dentist should ensure that things like crowns, cavities, and veneers do not interfere in the process of your teeth whitening.