When you hear the phrase professional teeth whitening, what comes to mind? For most people, the answer would be simple and straightforward – they imagine a dental office where their teeth are whitened using materials and techniques only used by dentists and hygienists. However, this answer isn’t always correct, as there are several teeth whitening procedures available that can be performed in-office or at your dentist’s office, but which are typically performed by an aestheticism or other type of technician rather than a dentist or hygienist.
 

How do you know if you need professional teeth whitening?

From in-office treatments to take-home kits, teeth whitening is now more popular than ever. But how do you know if you need professional teeth whitening? What are some of your options? Read on for answers to all your questions about professional teeth whitening.
 
What should you consider when selecting a dentist/teeth whitening provider?


Are they trained/certified in teeth whitening?

 What type of teeth whitening systems do they offer (e.g., dentist-in-office systems or custom trays)?

 Are they experienced with a certain type of system?

Where are their offices located relative to you?

Is there a range of different prices that you can expect to pay for each type of system offered?

Does each whitening treatment need to be done in their office or can they be done at home?

What are the benefits of professionally applied teeth whitening?

For many of us, one of our main worries is What will people think of my teeth? Unfortunately, poor teeth can cause embarrassment and make it difficult to smile confidently. If you are unhappy with your smile and are considering tooth whitening for cosmetic reasons, there are several ways that you can find out if professional teeth whitening is right for you. A dentist or hygienist at your local dental office should be able to answer any questions you have about how professionally applied teeth whitening works. Consider asking these questions
 
What are the potential risks associated with teeth whitening?

If you’re interested in at-home teeth whitening kits, it’s important to understand what potential risks are associated with teeth whitening. Overusing a teeth-whitening kit can be damaging to your dental health, as overly aggressive Teeth Bleaching Services can discolor your enamel and even damage nerve cells in your teeth. Before selecting a product, you should consider how professional teeth whitening services compare with at-home methods. A skilled dentist will be able to assess your smile and determine whether or not you actually need professional whitener—and if so, which kind is right for you. The ideal treatment plan takes into account more than just aesthetics; cosmetic concerns must also take into account dental health, comfort levels during treatment, and financial considerations.
 
When is professional teeth whitening most effective?

There are a few situations when professional teeth whitening can be particularly effective. One is if you have a higher risk of developing sensitivity issues from bleaching your teeth, such as if you’ve had fillings done. Another scenario is if you have an extreme amount of tetracycline staining on your teeth or have experienced trauma that has led to stained enamel; either one could mean that regular whitening at home isn’t going to yield enough improvement for your liking.

Will I see results after just one visit?

In-office teeth whitening treatments are typically given in one visit. While results will differ from person to person, it's common for patients to see dramatic changes after just one session. In fact, it's not uncommon for patients to say their teeth look so great that they never want to go back! However, if you’re concerned about a dental procedure like professional teeth whitening or are unsure of what treatment is best for you and your smile, you should always consult with a dentist or dental hygienist who can provide individualized care and answer any questions or concerns.
 
Will my insurance cover this service?

Unless your dentist is in-network, you probably won’t be able to get whitening services through your insurance. If your dentist participates in a discount plan like Care Credit or Healthy White, though, it may be possible to sign up for some sort of financing to cover your dental work. (Just beware that these types of financing tend to have very high interest rates.) When choosing between different teeth whitening services, also keep in mind that many dentists offer free initial consultations. Check with yours before making any decisions about what procedure is right for you.