Is Teeth Whitening Right For You?

Are you considering teeth whitening but unsure if you’re the right candidate?  It’s essential to assess a few factors before diving into any whitening treatment.  Firstly, individuals with healthy teeth and gums generally make ideal candidates.  If you have cavities or gum disease, addressing these issues first is crucial before whitening to avoid potential sensitivity or complications.  Secondly, the type and extent of discoloration or stain plays a role.  Surface stains from coffee, tea or tobacco often respond well to whitening treatments while deeper stains and discolorations due to medications or genetics may require alternate approaches to achieve desired results.  Lastly, consulting a dental professional is paramount.  Your dental healthcare provider can evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals and recommend the safest and most effective whitening options tailored to your needs.

Remember, teeth whitening isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about ensuring your oral health remains a top priority.  By addressing these considerations and consulting with your dental professional, you can confidently determine if teeth whitening is a the right choice for you.

Key Points:

1.     Existing restorations like fillings, crowns and veneers will not whiten.

2.     To achieve best result possible, make sure your teeth have been recently cleaned prior to whitening.  Whitening agent will sooner whiten plaque and tarter leaving the tooth underneath unwhitened.

3.     If you have gum disease (bleeding gums etc.) or cavities those should be addressed first.

4.     Not all whitening systems are the same.  Some are extremely gentle with little to no sensitivity while others can be quite sensitive.

5.     For optimal results, it’s important to refrain from stain causing foods or behaviours for at least 48 hours post whitening treatment.