In-office teeth whitening offers a swift and effective solution for those seeking a brighter smile, utilizing high-concentration bleaching gels under professional care. This procedure promises immediate results, though it requires careful post-treatment maintenance to sustain its effects. Explore the various systems, costs, and aftercare tips to make an informed choice for achieving long-lasting dental brilliance.
Understanding In-Office Teeth Whitening
In-office teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that offers immediate and noticeable results. Unlike home-use systems, which utilize low-dose agents, in-office treatments employ high-concentration bleaching gels under professional supervision. This ensures not only faster results but also increased safety, thanks to advancements in peroxide gels and desensitizers like potassium nitrate and fluoride, which help manage gum and tooth sensitivity during the process. Despite its benefits, in-office teeth whitening is more expensive than take-home alternatives, with an average cost of $650. The results are not permanent, and maintenance with lower-percentage bleach is often recommended.
Popular In-Office Whitening Systems
Several brand-name whitening systems are available, each with unique features, costs, and treatment durations. The Zoom Chairside Whitening System, for instance, is a light-activated treatment designed for in-office use by trained dental professionals. It involves several steps, including pre-procedure shade matching, patient diagnosis, and sensitivity treatment. The preparation phase includes tray fabrication, teeth cleaning, and the application of protective measures such as Vitamin E Oil and IsoPrep Retractor to ensure proper lamp positioning and protection from light exposure throughout the procedure.
Philips Zoom Whitening Options
Philips Zoom offers two main in-office whitening options: QuickPro and WhiteSpeed. QuickPro is a 30-minute treatment that can brighten teeth up to 4 shades, ideal for those seeking quick results with minimal time in the dentist’s chair. WhiteSpeed, on the other hand, is a 45-minute procedure that can whiten teeth up to 8 shades, providing dramatic and instant results. The QuickPro treatment is designed for convenience, allowing it to be added to the end of a regular dental check-up without the need for a whitening lamp for a quick and efficient option.
Post-Procedure Care and Maintenance
After undergoing in-office teeth whitening, it is crucial to follow specific aftercare instructions to maintain the results. Patients should avoid smoking for 48 hours and steer clear of foods and beverages that can stain teeth, such as red sauce, berries, juice, coffee, and tea. Post-treatment, patients may experience mild sensitivity to hot or cold liquids, which typically subsides within 1-2 days. Over-the-counter pain medications like Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen can be used to alleviate discomfort during this period.
Long-Term Whitening Results
Immediate whitening results may appear dramatic due to minor dehydration of the teeth, but the color will naturally tone down as the teeth rehydrate. Long-term results vary, and touch-up treatments every six months are recommended to retain the desired color. For at-home maintenance, products like Pola Night Gel, containing 22% carbamide peroxide, can be used with trays. The gel should be applied once daily for 45 minutes, with a total of 14 uses per syringe. Patients with sensitivity may need to take breaks between treatments or shorten the treatment duration to manage discomfort.
Why You Should Learn More About In-Office Teeth Whitening Today
In-office teeth whitening is a highly effective, long-lasting, and safe procedure when performed by a dental professional. It involves the use of stronger peroxide gels compared to at-home options, ensuring more significant results. The procedure begins with a thorough cleaning of the teeth to remove plaque and tartar, followed by the application of a whitening gel. The gel may be activated with a curing light and is left on the teeth for a specified time, often repeated for optimal results. Understanding the various options and post-care requirements can help individuals make informed decisions about their dental health and aesthetic goals. With the right approach, in-office teeth whitening can offer a brighter, more confident smile.