Professional teeth whitening procedures are the best way to get a brighter, whiter smile. Whitening toothpaste and over-the-counter trays work. But professional whitening is best if you want faster, more noticeable results.

A single teeth whitening session at your local dentist's office can make your teeth look at least four shades whiter. You can lighten your teeth by up to 12 shades with multiple treatment rounds in one session.

If you're getting ready for professional whitening, you may wonder what to expect. This procedure is completely safe and effective when performed by a high-quality dentist. Still, any dental procedure can feel scary.



We want to help ease your anxieties, which is why we created this guide. Below, we will discuss what to expect before and after your appointment. Plus, we'll explain how professional teeth whitening procedures work.

Before Your Teeth Whitening Appointment

During Your Teeth Whitening Appointment

On the day of your appointment, make sure you brush and floss. Whitening treatments work better on clean, gunk-free teeth. If you are worried about sensitivity, brush with sensitive teeth toothpaste before your appointment.

Additionally, if it has been a while since your last dental cleaning, a hygienist will want to perform one before whitening. Most people can get their teeth whitened on the same day as their cleaning.

People who have recently had their teeth cleaned can go straight into the whitening procedure. Here's what to expect.

Preparation

A dental assistant will first prepare your mouth for whitening. Whitening ingredients can harm the gums, so you will need a rubber dental dam to protect them. Some dental offices may use a custom molded gum protector.

Whitening ingredients can also be harmful to the lips and the cheeks. The dental assistant will use a cheek retractor or a muco-protectant gel on these areas to prevent discomfort.

Once your mouth is prepped, the treatment will begin.

Treatment Application

Professional teeth whitening ingredients include hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide tends to be stronger. It may work for more significant stains or speed up the treatment time.

A hygienist will first apply the bleaching solution to your teeth. Then, they will use a laser to activate the treatment. One round of treatment typically takes about 20 minutes before the hygienist removes the whitening product.

Most professional whitening appointments have time for multiple treatment rounds. Once the hygienist removes the bleaching ingredient, they will add another layer and start the process over again.



The number of treatment rounds you need depends on your whitening goals and how stained your teeth are. Typically, patients need up to four rounds to achieve desired results. The entire appointment will last up to one hour.

After Your Teeth Whitening Appointment

After your treatment, the hygienist will remove the last layer of whitening ingredients and protective equipment from your mouth. Then, you can look in a hand-held mirror to check out your results.

Your dentist may provide you with aftercare instructions. These instructions will talk about the side effects to expect and how to deal with them.

The most common side effects after teeth whitening are tooth sensitivity and gum inflammation.

Both side effects will go away with time. To ease any discomfort, you can incorporate sensitive teeth toothpaste like Sensodyne. Warm salt water rinses and over-the-counter painkillers can help with your inflamed gums.

Whitening your teeth will reduce existing stains. But this treatment will not prevent new ones. Avoid eating or drinking acidic or brightly colored items for at least 24 hours after your appointment.

Also, consider cutting out dark-colored foods and drinks that will stain your teeth, such as:

• Coffee
• Red wine
• Tea
• Fruit juice
• Tomatoes and tomato-based products
• Curry
• Soft drinks
• Balsamic vinegar
• Soy sauce



If you must eat or drink these items, avoid prolonged contact with your enamel and practice good dental care. Brush after meals, especially if they contain the above ingredients, to keep your teeth whiter for longer.

Schedule Your Teeth Whitening Appointment

Going to a professional is the safest and most effective way to get white teeth. Dentists use hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide in combination with lasers to whiten your teeth up to 12 shades lighter.



Are you looking for a dentist in Hampton, VA offering professional teeth whitening services? Schedule an appointment with LeJeune Family Dentistry to get a whiter smile today!