Who Qualifies for Professional Teeth Whitening?
At Fishinger Dental, our Hilliard, OH, dentist, Dr. Nathan Desai, understands that a bright, white smile can boost your confidence and enhance your overall appearance. However, not everyone is an ideal candidate for professional teeth whitening. If you’re looking to remove stains and discoloration from your teeth, our comprehensive evaluation process will determine your candidacy for this cosmetic treatment.
During your consultation, Dr. Desai will assess your oral health and determine which teeth whitening system is best for your specific needs. To find out if you qualify for teeth whitening, call our Hilliard dental office today at (614) 771-6060.
Key Factors for Teeth Whitening Candidacy
Oral Health Requirements
Good oral health is essential for any cosmetic dental procedure, including professional teeth whitening. Patients with untreated conditions like gum disease, tooth decay, or exposed roots may experience discomfort or sensitivity during whitening. If you have these issues, it’s crucial to address them before proceeding with whitening treatment. Dr. Desai will evaluate your teeth and gums to ensure you’re a suitable candidate.
Age Restrictions
Professional teeth whitening is typically recommended for individuals aged 18 years and older. This is because younger patients often have more sensitive teeth, and their enamel is still developing, making them more susceptible to discomfort from whitening agents. If your child has tooth discoloration, it’s important to investigate the cause rather than opting for whitening.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
It’s generally advised that pregnant or breastfeeding women avoid professional teeth whitening. While there’s no definitive evidence showing harm, pregnancy can alter oral health, making the whitening process less predictable. We recommend postponing whitening treatments until after pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Dental Restorations and Whitening
If you have dental restorations such as veneers, crowns, or bridges, you may not be a candidate for traditional teeth whitening treatments. This is because whitening agents do not affect the color of these materials. Dr. Desai may suggest alternative treatments to help achieve a more uniform smile. If you’re planning future dental work, we recommend whitening your teeth beforehand so restorations can be matched to your desired tooth shade.
Additional Considerations
- Tooth Sensitivity: If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, certain whitening treatments may cause discomfort. Our office offers solutions designed to minimize sensitivity during the whitening process.
- Severe Health Problems: Individuals with severe conditions like oral cancer or advanced gum disease should discuss their overall health with their dentist before considering teeth whitening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I whiten my teeth with root canals?
Yes, teeth that have undergone root canal treatments can be whitened. However, these teeth may not respond as well to whitening treatments, and results may not last as long compared to non-treated teeth.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have gum disease?
No, we recommend treating gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, before undergoing any whitening procedure. Whitening agents can aggravate inflamed gums and lead to further discomfort.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have amalgam or metal fillings?
Yes, you can whiten your teeth even with amalgam or metal fillings. However, the fillings will remain the same color, which may create a contrast with your newly whitened teeth.
Fishinger Dental Can Give You a Shining Smile
If you’re interested in professional teeth whitening and want to know if you qualify, schedule a consultation with Dr. Desai at Fishinger Dental in Hilliard, OH. We proudly serve patients from Columbus, Dublin, Upper Arlington, Grove City, Westerville, and surrounding areas. Call (614) 771-6060 today to start your journey to a whiter, brighter smile!
