Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening can help restore the natural brightness of your teeth, improve your confidence, and enhance your overall appearance. Whitening your teeth can be a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of your smile, but it is important to choose a reputable dental professional like Indian Trail Dental Studio, and follow proper practices to minimize the risk of complications. Contact our care team to learn more about our teeth whitening services today.

What Is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves removing stains and discoloration from the teeth to achieve a brighter, more youthful-looking smile. Over time, teeth can become stained and discolored due to a variety of factors, like:

  • Smoking
  • Drinking coffee or wine
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Aging
  • Side effects of certain medications 

A bright white smile can enhance your appearance and boost your confidence. Thankfully, the availability of in-office whitening treatments makes achieving a beautiful smile easy and affordable.

How Does Whitening Your Teeth Work?

The first step is a consultation with your dentist to determine if you are a good candidate for teeth whitening. Whitening your teeth typically involves an in-office treatment using a high-concentration bleaching agent. Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums and discuss your goals for the treatment. 

Before the whitening process begins, your dentist will clean your teeth to remove any surface debris and prepare them for the bleaching agent. Next, the bleaching agent will be applied directly to your teeth.

Depending on the type of bleaching agent used, your dentist may need to reapply the solution several times during the treatment session to achieve the desired level of whitening. But, if you’re happy with a level of lightning before starting a new treatment, you don’t have to commit to getting more. After the treatment is complete, your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your teeth to maintain the results of the treatment.

Complications of Improper Whitening Technique

Improper whitening techniques can lead to various complications that can affect oral health and cause discomfort. Here’s a closer look at some of the complications that can occur due to improper whitening techniques: 

  • Tooth sensitivity: Overuse or incorrect application of whitening products can cause tooth sensitivity or pain. This happens when the whitening product reaches the dentin layer of the tooth, which contains tiny nerve endings.
  • Gum irritation: Whitening agents that come into contact with the gums can cause irritation or inflammation. This can lead to discomfort, bleeding, and even gum recession if the irritation persists.
  • Burns: While it is rare, teeth whitening can cause burns or chemical burns to the gums, lips, or other soft tissues in the mouth. This can happen if the whitening product is not applied properly or if the concentration of the bleaching agent is too high. 
  • Uneven results: If the whitening product is not applied evenly or left on for too long, it can result in uneven whitening, with some teeth appearing brighter than others.
  • Damage to tooth enamel: Certain whitening products can erode the tooth enamel, leaving it more vulnerable to cavities, decay, and sensitivity.
  • Increased risk of cavities: Some whitening products can create an environment that promotes bacterial growth, leading to an increased risk of cavities and other oral health problems.

It’s important to carefully consider any potential risks or side effects associated with the procedure. From tooth sensitivity to gum irritation and uneven results, the risks associated with improper whitening techniques can be significant.



Getting Professional Whitening

​​Although it’s crucial to carefully evaluate possible risks or side effects associated with the procedure, the majority of patients discover that the advantages of having a whiter smile are more valuable than any momentary discomfort or trouble they might experience. If you’re ready for professional teeth whitening, book an appointment with Indian Trail Dental Studio today.

Frequently Asked Questions

The majority of people interested in whitening their teeth qualify for whitening services. However, not every person who is interested in getting their teeth whitened should. People who have dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or veneers on their front teeth may not be good candidates for teeth whitening because the whitening agents will not affect the restorations. This can result in uneven coloration between the natural teeth and the restorations. 

It is important to consult with your dentist to determine if teeth whitening is a good option for you and to discuss any potential risks or complications. However, if you have healthy teeth and gums and want to improve the appearance of your smile, teeth whitening is a great option available to improve your smile.

When performed correctly, teeth whitening is generally considered safe. However, some people may experience sensitivity or gum irritation during or after the procedure.

Once your teeth whitening is done, it’s important to follow proper practices to maintain the results and avoid causing damage or sensitivity to your teeth. Our team at Indian Trail Dentistry will send you home with supplies to refresh your teeth whitening, like more gel and protective gear to keep your gums safe from the whitening solution.

Some people may experience sensitivity or gum irritation during or after teeth whitening, but these side effects are usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or desensitizing toothpaste. 

Teeth whitening is generally safe and effective for most people, but it may not be suitable for everyone. People with certain dental conditions, such as tooth decay or gum disease, may need to undergo treatment to address these issues before undergoing teeth whitening. Additionally, teeth whitening may not be effective for people with certain types of tooth stains or discoloration.

In-office teeth whitening typically takes about one to two hours, depending on the extent of the staining and the desired level of whitening.

Hasmi R. Patel, DMD

Dr. Hasmi Patel

Exceeding Your Expectations

Your Smile is in Great Hands at Indian Trail Dental Studio