What to Expect During Your Teeth Whitening

Everyone admires a bright, white smile. Over time, however, lifestyle habits can make teeth appear dull or give them a yellowed appearance. When this happens, a visit to your dentist in Aitkin, MN, can help. Teeth-whitening procedures are performed in-office, and they’re ideal for improving the appearance of your smile. If you’ve never had your teeth professionally whitened, the procedure is surprisingly simple.

What Happens During a Teeth-Whitening Appointment?

A teeth-whitening treatment usually begins with a thorough deep cleaning of your teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Once your dentist is satisfied that your teeth are as clean as possible, they’ll begin the whitening treatment. This usually consists of several steps:

• Covering your gums with gauze to protect them from the whitening gel
• Positioning retractors to keep the tissue of your inner mouth free from whitening gel
• Painting your gums with a temporary, protective barrier
• Applying the whitening gel to teeth
• Using a UV light to activate the gel
• Waiting for the gel to perform
• Rinsing and finishing

Teeth-whitening is noninvasive and completely painless, but it may take an hour or more because it takes time for the whitening gel to work its magic. Still, you’ll leave your office appointment with brighter, whiter teeth and a more dazzling smile.

Can’t I Just Whiten My Teeth at Home?

You can whiten your teeth at home using over-the-counter products that contain hydrogen peroxide. However, in the interests of safety, these products are not nearly as strong or effective as the teeth-whitening products your dentist uses. Because your dentist is specially trained in the safe use and application of teeth-whitening gel, they have access to much higher quality teeth-whitening solutions. In other words, when your dentist does it, your results will be much more noticeable, and you’ll be much more pleased with the outcome. You’ll also avoid the work and mess associated with home teeth-whitening kits.

Where to Find Teeth-Whitening Services in Aitkin, MN

If you’re interested in teeth whitening in Aitkin, MN, call River Oaks Dental to schedule an appointment today. The friendly and professional clinicians at River Oaks Dental will be happy to sit down with you to discuss the procedure and to answer any questions you may have regarding how to get a brighter, whiter smile.