What Americans Say About Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening procedures at the dentist involve using specialized products to bleach the teeth and make them appear whiter. Two main types of teeth whitening procedures are offered by Marina District Dentistry in San Diego: in-office bleaching and take-home bleaching kits.

In-office bleaching is done at the dental office and typically takes about an hour. The dentist will apply a bleaching gel to your teeth and use a special light or laser to activate the gel and speed up the whitening process. In-office bleaching can often produce dramatic results in a single treatment. Still, it is usually more expensive than take-home kits.

Take-home bleaching kits are also available and involve wearing a mouthguard filled with bleaching gel for several hours daily. The length of treatment can vary, but it is typically around two weeks. Take-home kits are generally less expensive than in-office bleaching. Still, they may take longer to produce the desired results.

Both in-office and take-home bleaching treatments can cause some tooth sensitivity, but this should resolve within a few days. It is essential to follow the instructions provided by your dentist to minimize any potential side effects.

Professional teeth whitening is generally not painful. Some people may experience temporary sensitivity to cold or hot foods and drinks following the treatment, but this should resolve within a few days. Your dentist may recommend using toothpaste for sensitive teeth or taking a break from the treatment for a few days if you experience discomfort.

It's also worth noting that professional teeth whitening is not suitable for everyone. Gum disease, tooth decay, or other dental problems must be addressed before teeth whitening. The procedure may not be effective for certain types of stains, such as those caused by certain medications or excessive fluoride use. Your dentist can help you determine whether teeth whitening is a good option for you based on your oral health and the cause of your tooth discoloration.

Professional teeth whitening can offer many benefits, including:

Improved appearance: One of the main benefits of teeth whitening is that it can enhance the appearance of your teeth, giving you a brighter and more attractive smile.

Enhanced self-confidence: Many people feel more confident and self-assured after undergoing teeth whitening.

Non-invasive: Professional teeth whitening is a non-invasive procedure that does not require cutting or drilling.

Fast results: In-office teeth whitening can often produce dramatic results in just one treatment. At the same time, take-home kits may take a week or two to achieve the desired level of whitening.

Customizable: Your dentist can tailor the teeth whitening treatment to your needs and preferences.

Long-lasting: The effects of professional teeth whitening can last for several months to a year, depending on your oral hygiene habits and the type of treatment you receive.

The cost of professional teeth whitening can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of treatment you receive, the extent of tooth discoloration, and the dental office's location.

In-office teeth whitening is generally more expensive than take-home kits. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the average cost of in-office teeth whitening is around $650. However, prices can range from $500 to $1,000 or more.

Take-home teeth whitening kits are generally less expensive, ranging from $100 to $400. These kits may be available through your dentist or over the counter.

Dental insurance may cover some cost of professional teeth whitening, depending on your specific plan and the reason for the treatment. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to see what is covered.

It's also worth noting professional teeth whitening can be expensive. It is often less costly than other cosmetic dental procedures, such as veneers or crowns. Your dentist can help you weigh the costs and benefits of different treatment options to determine the best course of action for your needs and budget.

In many cases, teeth whitening can be performed by a dental hygienist. Dental hygienists are licensed oral healthcare professionals trained to clean teeth and provide preventive care, including teeth whitening. In some states, dental hygienists may be allowed to perform teeth whitening procedures without the supervision of a dentist.

However, the specific laws and regulations governing teeth whitening can vary by state. In some states, teeth whitening can only be performed by a dentist or under the direct supervision of a dentist. It's worth checking with your state dental board or a dental professional in your area to find out the laws and regulations of where you live.

If you are considering teeth whitening, you should speak with Dr. Racic at Marina District Dentistry to determine the best course of action for your needs. While dental hygienists are trained to provide teeth whitening services, dentists have extensive education. They may be better equipped to handle any complications.

Dental insurance policies vary widely, so it's worth checking with your insurance provider to find out what is covered. In general, teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure and is not typically covered by dental insurance.

However, there are some exceptions. For example, some insurance plans may cover the cost of teeth whitening if it is deemed medically necessary, such as if you have discoloration due to certain medications or treatments. In these cases, your dentist will need to provide documentation and a treatment plan to your insurance company for review.

It's also worth noting that some dental insurance plans offer discounts on cosmetic procedures, including teeth whitening. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to see what discounts are available.

If you are considering teeth whitening and are concerned about the cost, it's a good idea to speak with Dr.Racic about your options. They may be able to recommend cost-effective alternatives or help you develop a payment plan to make the treatment more affordable.

It is generally recommended to have your teeth professionally cleaned before undergoing a teeth whitening treatment. This is because teeth whitening products work by bleaching the enamel on your teeth, and they are more effective in cleaning teeth. If you have a significant amount of plaque or tartar on your teeth, the bleaching agents may not be able to penetrate the surface of your teeth effectively, which can limit the effectiveness of the treatment.

Having your teeth cleaned by a dental professional before teeth whitening can also help to reduce the risk of tooth sensitivity, as removing plaque and tartar can help to reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth.

It's worth noting that if you have gum disease or tooth decay, you may need to address these issues before undergoing teeth whitening. Your dentist or dental hygienist can help you determine whether your teeth are healthy enough for whitening and what steps you may need to take before starting treatment.

Can professional teeth whitening be accomplished using a laser? 

Yes, professional teeth whitening can be accomplished using a laser. This type of treatment is often referred to as "laser teeth whitening" or "power whitening."

During laser teeth whitening, a dental professional will apply a bleaching gel to your teeth and then use a laser or special light to activate the gel and speed up the whitening process. The laser or light energy helps to break down the bleaching agents in the gel, allowing them to penetrate the tooth enamel more effectively.

Laser teeth whitening is generally faster and more effective than other types of professional teeth whitening, and it can often produce dramatic results in just one treatment. However, it is also generally more expensive than other types of professional teeth whitening, such as take-home kits.

It's worth noting that laser teeth whitening is not suitable for everyone, and it may not be effective for certain types of stains. Your dentist can help you determine whether laser teeth whitening is a good option for you based on your oral health and the cause of your tooth discoloration.

You deserve a bright healthy smile! 

Call today, we will happily arrange a consultation for you with Dr. Racic. 

Marina District Dentistry, Your San Diego Cosmetic Dentist, 

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