Pros and Cons of Teeth Whitening
A white smile is associated with beauty, health and self-confidence, so it’s no surprise that teeth whitening treatments are so popular. If you’re thinking about brightening your smile, it’s important to learn what these treatments involve and what your options are so you can avoid disappointment and possible risks.
Before making any changes to your teeth, your first stop should be a dentist. Contact our friendly team at Mosman 3D Dental today to discuss your whitening goals and find out how our professionals can help.
What does teeth whitening involve?
Teeth whitening treatments generally involve applying a bleaching gel to your teeth that can brighten them by several shades and reduce the appearance of stains. There are two main approaches to teeth whitening treatments: those that can be done in the comfort of your home and those provided by a dentist at their clinic.
Having your teeth whitened by a professional improves the chances of a successful outcome. If you prefer to whiten your teeth at home, it’s recommended to have a custom kit made by your dentist rather than use over-the-counter products from stores that can involve risks.
Benefits of professional teeth whitening
Having your teeth whitened at a dental clinic or using a home whitening kit provided your dentist has several advantages.
- Faster: Dentists are qualified to use higher concentrations of bleaching agents than are available for personal use. This allows whitening treatments to be completed in a single visit, compared to several weeks for home whitening.
- Safer: A qualified and experienced professional knows how to apply bleaching products safely to avoid risks and reduce discomfort. They can also instruct you in the safe use of your home whitening kit.
- Improved results: Your dentist will tailor your treatment for the most natural-looking results based on the type of discolouration you have and other factors.
Risks of DIY teeth whitening
The risks of teeth whitening can be greater if you use over-the-counter products without guidance from a dentist. These can include:
- Damage to teeth: Using bleaching gels incorrectly, or at too high concentrations, may damage tooth enamel.
- Discomfort: Some whitening gels may feel uncomfortable when applied and for some time after, especially if you have sensitive teeth.
- Poor results: If your treatment hasn’t been personalised, you may end up with uneven or unsatisfying results.
Is teeth whitening right for me?
If you want to improve the appearance of your smile, teeth whitening may not be the only option for you. It’s also important to note that not everyone is a candidate for teeth whitening, particularly if you have dental work such as crowns or fillings that won’t be affected by whitening products.
Your dentist will ask about your aesthetic needs and goals and may discuss alternatives such as veneers or same-day crowns so you can decide what’s right for you. It’s also important to have a regular check-up and clean with a dentist to reduce stains and plaque from building up and help your smile to stay whiter for longer.
Teeth whitening in Mosman
Are you thinking about teeth whitening? Call our friendly team today on (02) 9969 8610 to find out more about your options or book a consultation online.