Professional teeth whitening is one of the simplest cosmetic dentistry services you can receive, but it makes a dramatic difference to your smile and overall appearance. Treatment from your dentist will help to lighten your teeth noticeably for an attractive, gleaming smile. Here’s what you need to know about the process.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

1. Preparation

First, your dentist will clean your teeth thoroughly and scour them to remove plaque and tartar. Not only does this make bleaching more effective, but it also makes the teeth smooth and shiny. Next, they may brace your mouth open with a small frame and protect your gums with a rubber shield.

2. Bleach Application

The compounds used for teeth whitening are usually peroxide-based. They penetrate the tiny structures in your dental enamel and draw stains out from beneath the surface. The formulas available to professional dentists are stronger than over-the-counter teeth whitening options in drugstores, so you get faster results.

3. Activation

Most teeth whitening options from professional dentists need to be activated to be most effective. To do this, your dentist will shine a laser or a curing light on your teeth while the bleach sits on them. You must then wait until you've reached the maximum recommended time for the specific system. Your dentist will monitor the entire process to ensure your teeth aren't damaged by overbleaching.

For effective teeth whitening in and around Lorain, OH, choose C.R. Sfeir D.D.S., General Dentistry. Serving the area for over 20 years, Dr. Sfeir is a member of the American Dental Association, the statewide Ohio Dental Association, and the local Lorain County Dental Society. He works to build a relationship of trust with each patient, so you know you're getting reliable care. For an appointment, call (440) 960-5200, or visit the website to learn more.