Everyone wants to feel confident in their appearance, so it's no wonder that cosmetic dentistry is booming. And of the available procedures, teeth whitening is the most popular. But is professional whitening really that much more effective than drugstore products? And what do they cost?
Am I a good candidate for teeth whitening?
You're a good candidate for teeth whitening if you have light or mild staining and don't smoke. If you've ever had any type of crown or veneer work done, you should have your dentist check the color of those teeth before proceeding with whitening. Teeth whitening only works on natural tooth structure, so the process won't affect any restorations you've had.
Professional teeth whitening may not be effective if you have grayish stains on your teeth. Grayish stains are intrinsic, originating inside the teeth, and may not respond to whitening treatments. Your dentist can tell you what results to expect and may recommend other procedures if you're bothered by grayish staining.
It's also important to note that certain medications can affect how your teeth respond to whitening. Some antibiotics and anti-seizure medications can affect how your gums heal after whitening treatments and increase the risk of post-treatment sensitivity.
What are the advantages of professional teeth whitening versus over-the-counter products?
Many over-the-counter products are available that claim to whiten your teeth, from stick-on strips to toothpaste and mouthwashes.
Professional teeth whitening is done in a dentist’s office with professional equipment, and some dentists also offer professional-quality products that you can use at home.
A significant advantage of professional whitening is that it can be customized based on your individual needs. Your dentist can recommend the correct level of whitening for you based on their assessment of your natural tooth enamel, dental work (such as fillings), previous treatments (such as bleaching), and lifestyle factors (such as smoking).
Professional teeth whitening has been proven more effective than over-the-counter products. In fact, some studies have shown that professional whitening can lighten teeth up to eight shades.
Are there any risks or side effects?
The risks and side effects of professional teeth whitening are minimal. The most common side effect is tooth sensitivity to cold or hot foods and liquids. This usually subsides within about a week after treatment and can be reduced by avoiding the things that trigger your sensitivity, such as ice cream, soda, or acidic foods.
Some people experience temporary staining of their gums after professional teeth whitening. This typically resolves on its own within a couple of weeks.
Teeth whitening may not be right for you if you have sensitive teeth or gums, take anti-inflammatory drugs or blood thinners, are pregnant or nursing, or are allergic to any of the ingredients in the bleaching gel.
What does professional teeth whitening cost in Lady's Island, SC?
Professional teeth whitening is more affordable than many people think. Several factors affect the cost of teeth whitening between dental practices. They include:
- The geographic location of the dental practice.
- The type of whitening system used.
- The amount of time spent on your treatment.
- Whether or not you need any additional treatments to achieve the desired results.
For in-office professional whitening in Lady's Island, SC, expect the price to be between $99 to $600. If you want a professional at-home bleaching kit from your dentist, expect to pay between $300 and $600.
Sea Island Dentistry Offers Teeth Whitening
Are you interested in professional teeth whitening for a brighter smile? Contact us today to schedule an appointment or consultation.