Teeth whitening is one of the most popular and highly effective procedures offered in cosmetic dentistry offices around the country. Professional teeth whitening gives patients the opportunity to brighten their teeth by up to ten shades in as little as 45 minutes to an hour. However, while most people are good candidates for teeth whitening, only a qualified and experienced cosmetic dentist can make the final judgment as to your candidacy.
The best candidates for professional teeth whitening are those with essentially healthy teeth that, nonetheless, have lost some of their natural luster. Their teeth may suffer from moderate-to-deep stains caused by wine, soda, food, certain medications, tobacco, or other staining agents or simply from natural wear and tear over time. Those who suffer from chronic tooth sensitivity are not good candidates for teeth whitening, although they may be well suited to other cosmetic dentistry treatments that can improve the appearance of their teeth, such as dental crowns. Teeth whitening does not offer any oral health benefit, so those with cracked, chipped, weakened, or otherwise damaged teeth will not benefit from teeth whitening. However, teeth whitening can be combined with restorative dentistry procedures as part of a more comprehensive treatment plan.
Teeth whitening candidates should have realistic expectations of the procedure. Certain stains may be lightened rather than entirely removed by teeth bleaching. Severe discoloration may be more effectively treated by porcelain veneers or porcelain crowns, which conceal badly damaged teeth. Another alternative is dental bonding, in which a composite resin is painted onto the teeth to restore whiteness.
If you are interested in teeth whitening, consult with an experienced cosmetic dentist to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for the cosmetic dentistry procedure. The cost of teeth whitening varies according to many factors, but be prepared to spend at least $500.
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