Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure in which stains and discolorations are removed from the surface of the teeth with the application of whitening agents. It typically results in noticeably brighter teeth. To better understand this procedure and how a dentist helps patients achieve a brighter smile, below is an introduction to teeth whitening.

A Guide to Teeth Whitening

What Types of Whitening Are There?

There are two main types of professional teeth whitening. One is a treatment performed by your dentist in their office, while the other is a product you can obtain from your dentist and apply it yourself at home. There are over-the-counter products as well, such as toothpastes and whitening systems, but these generally don’t have the stain-removing intensity of professional-grade treatments.

What Is the Process Like?

With an in-office teeth whitening, you typically relax in the dentist's chair while they put either a protective gel or barrier on the gums. Then, they apply the whitening agents to the teeth. With an at-home product from your dentist, you usually put whitening agents into trays that fit over the teeth. These trays need to be worn for a certain period each day to achieve the desired level of whitening.

Are There Any Risks?

There is minimal risk with teeth whitening. In some cases, the whitening agent may penetrate the tooth enamel and dentin and irritate the root, resulting in sensitivity. This is often temporary, and you can hold off on subsequent treatments until the sensitivity has subsided. Another potential risk comes with overuse; excessive exposure to the chemicals in whitening products can compromise the strength of the crucial enamel that protects the teeth. Always follow instructions from your dentist regarding proper whitening procedures and practices.

Teeth whitening can help you achieve the smile you've always dreamed of. Lisa Tatum, DDS, is a dentist who offers teeth whitening treatments to the Augusta County, VA, area. Dr. Tatum also provides a range of preventative and family dentistry services, including oral exams, X-rays, fillings, crowns, and sealants. She is dedicated to providing the highest levels of care in a relaxed and professional setting. Call (540) 943-0973 to schedule an appointment or visit her website to browse her services.