What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening reduces andremoves stainson your natural teeth.
you’re free to only whiten your natural teeth.
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If you have tooth-colored fillings, these cannot be whitened.
There are several different options for teeth whitening.
Most professional teeth whitening methods usecarbamide peroxideand hydrogen peroxide.
Your provider may or may not use LED lights to speed up the process.
The procedure can take anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes to complete.
Fluoride does not affect the whitening ability of the products used.
Professional products can result in faster results; you will usually see noticeable whitening after one treatment.
The results of teeth whitening aren’t permanent.
They may last anywhere between a few months and several years.
Drinking red wine, coffee, or smoking will decrease the time your teeth remain white.
Cost
Insurance does not typically cover professional teeth whitening.
It is considered a cosmetic procedure and not medically necessary.
The cost varies by practice but averages between $500 and $1,000.
However, it is still worth contacting yourdental insurance provider.
Some plans offer an allowance for cosmetic procedures.
Your dental provider will instruct you on the specifics of your kit.
However, generally, you apply the whitening gel for 30-60 minutes for a couple of weeks.
Custom kits from your dental provider tend to work better than over-the-counter products.
So, it will take longer to achieve whitening results than in-office whitening.
A dental whitening kit from your dentist generally costs between $150 and $400.
Like in-office procedures, it is considered acosmetic procedureand is not usually covered by insurance.
Side Effects of Teeth Whitening
There are a few side effects associated with teeth whitening.
The main side effect is tooth sensitivity to hot and cold.
This sensitivity is related to acondition calledpulpitisand is reversible.
You may also experience minor tingling or irritation of your gums.
The home products are a lower concentration but may still cause tingling and irritation.
Prescription toothpaste with higher fluoride concentrations can also help reduce tooth sensitivity.
Most side effects, such as teeth sensitivity and gum irritation, are temporary.
The two main options for professional teeth whitening are in-office and custom at-home treatments.
Your dental provider can help you determine which treatment will help you obtain your desired color and minimize discomfort.
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