What To Expect at Your Teeth Whitening Session
Achieving a bright, white smile is easier than ever with professional teeth whitening. Over time, teeth can become discolored due to factors like age, smoking, and coffee or wine consumption. Fortunately, in-office teeth whitening treatments can help reverse these stains and brighten your smile by several shades in just one session.
Ready for a whiter smile? Call Fishinger Dental at (614) 771-6060 to schedule your cosmetic dentistry consultation in Hilliard, OH. We proudly serve Hilliard and surrounding areas, including Columbus, Dublin, Upper Arlington, and Westerville.
Preparing for Your Teeth Whitening Treatment
Preparation is key to getting the best results from your whitening session. Here’s what to do the day before your appointment:
- Avoid Staining Foods & Drinks: Steer clear of dark-colored beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine. Foods like berries and sauces can also stain your teeth, so it’s best to avoid them.
- Brush and Floss: Thorough oral hygiene is essential. Brushing and flossing before your appointment helps ensure that the whitening agent can effectively target stains.
- Rest Well: A good night’s sleep will help you feel relaxed during the procedure.
The Day of Your Tooth Whitening Appointment
The day of your teeth whitening appointment can be exciting, but it’s important to take a few precautions to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Skip Eating or Drinking: Avoid food or drinks for at least an hour before your session to keep your teeth ready for whitening.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Since you’ll be seated for a while, dressing comfortably is important.
- Bring Entertainment: If you’re anxious, headphones or music can help you relax.
In-Office Professional Teeth Whitening Process
The in-office teeth whitening process is a fast and effective way to dramatically improve the brightness of your smile. Here’s what you can expect:
- Preparation: A protective barrier is applied to your gums and soft tissues to shield them from the whitening gel.
- Whitening Gel Application: A high-concentration bleaching gel, typically containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, is applied to your teeth.
- Light Activation: A specialized light or laser activates the gel, speeding up the whitening process.
- Multiple Applications: Depending on your whitening goals, the gel may be reapplied several times during your visit.
In just 60 minutes, patients often notice a difference of several shades. For deeper stains, multiple tooth bleaching sessions may be necessary.
ZOOM! Teeth Whitening Process at Fishinger Dental
At Fishinger Dental, we use Zoom! Teeth Whitening to deliver long-lasting, brilliant results. Here’s how it works:
- Preparation: A barrier is placed to protect your gums and lips.
- Application: Dr. Desai applies the Zoom! whitening gel.
- Activation: The gel is activated with a specialized Zoom! light to enhance the whitening effect.
- Monitoring: Progress is carefully monitored to ensure even results.
- Final Evaluation: After the desired whitening is achieved, the gel is removed, and the results are assessed.
Most patients notice significant improvement after a single session, with results lasting for up to a year or more, especially with proper care.
At-Home Professional Teeth Whitening Process
For those who prefer at-home whitening, your dentist will provide custom-fitted trays with professional-grade gel. The process involves wearing the trays for a designated time each day, with results typically appearing within two weeks. At-home whitening is ideal for maintaining your bright smile after an in-office treatment.
Potential Side Effects After The Procedure
Like any dental procedure, teeth whitening can cause some side effects. The most common side effects include increased tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, and mild discomfort. These side effects are usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or desensitizing toothpaste.
In rare cases, teeth whitening can cause more severe side effects, such as chemical burns or damage to the tooth enamel. This is why it’s important to have teeth whitening done under the supervision of an experienced dentist.
Caring for Your Teeth After Whitening
To prolong your whitening results, follow these aftercare instructions:
- Avoid Staining Foods & Drinks: For the first 48 hours post-treatment, stay away from dark-colored foods and drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine.
- Quit Smoking: Tobacco can quickly discolor your teeth, undoing your whitening results.
- Use a Sensitivity Toothpaste: Whitening may cause temporary sensitivity, which can be managed with a desensitizing toothpaste.
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day and floss daily to prevent stains from reforming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is teeth whitening painful?
Teeth whitening is generally not painful, but some people may experience sensitivity or discomfort during or after the procedure. Your dental professional can recommend ways to manage any discomfort you may experience.
Will teeth whitening damage my enamel?
Teeth whitening, when done correctly, should not damage your enamel. However, overuse or misuse of teeth whitening products can lead to damage to the tooth enamel and cause sensitivity or even tooth decay.
Can anyone get their teeth whitened?
In general, most people can get their teeth whitened. However, teeth whitening treatments may not be recommended for individuals with certain dental conditions, such as cavities or gum disease. Consult with a dental professional before undergoing any teeth whitening procedure.
How long does teeth whitening take?
On average, most patients can expect professional teeth whitening to last between 30 and 60 minutes. The length of your treatment will depend on your dentist, how many shades you want to lighten your smile to, and other factors.
Renew Your Smile With Fishinger Dental!
If you’re ready to transform your smile with professional teeth whitening in Hilliard, OH, contact Fishinger Dental today. Whether you choose Zoom! in-office whitening or at-home trays, we can customize a treatment plan to meet your needs.
Call (614) 771-6060 to schedule your consultation. We proudly serve Hilliard, Dublin, Upper Arlington, and surrounding Ohio areas.