Professional Tooth Whitening: Common Questions and Concerns

If your smile has lost its radiant whiteness and you are considering professional teeth whitening, or tooth whitening, you probably have some questions and concerns about this cosmetic dentistry procedure. Many people elect to have cosmetic dentistry restore their teeth to a beautiful pearly white every year through tooth whitening.

What causes staining and discoloration of teeth?

There are many factors that can cause your teeth to become discolored and stained. Age, many foods and beverages such as wine, coffee, and tea, along with various medications, diseases and treatments--all of these and more can be instrumental in staining and discoloring your teeth. Genetics, too, can sometimes be a factor in that some people are inclined through heredity to have teeth that are not naturally white.

Is tooth whitening painful?

There isn’t normally any actual pain associated with professional tooth whitening. That being said, it is normal to experience a bit of sensitivity due to the whitening agents used by your cosmetic dentist. However, this sensitivity can and should be lessened by the use of dental dams to protect your gums and lips from the bleaching chemicals.

Is tooth whitening a safe procedure?

Yes, this particular cosmetic dentistry procedure is considered extremely safe. There will occasionally be a little lingering sensitivity to hot or cold foods or liquids, and possibly some residual soreness of the gums after having your teeth whitened for a short while. But there are no long term side effects or adverse effects of professional tooth whitening, including laser tooth whitening.

How long does tooth whitening take?

This depends on the cause of your stained or discolored teeth, as well as the extent of the staining and discoloration. Most treatments last from approximately one-half to one hour, and you may require more than one treatment.

Will health insurance pay for tooth whitening?

Probably not, as it is considered an elective procedure that isn’t necessary to your health and physical well-being. However, your cosmetic dentist will often help you work out a payment plan to pay for the treatments, which generally are not exorbitantly expensive, anyway.

For more information regarding tooth whitening, Albuquerque cosmetic dentist Dr. Byron can answer all your questions.