Achieving a gorgeous smile is one of the key reasons people visit the dentist. While there are many over-the-counter products formulated to brighten teeth, few are as effective as professional teeth whitening. This service involves using more potent ingredients to achieve quicker and more obvious results. Here are four steps involved in the process.

What Does Professional Teeth Whitening Involve?

1. Determine the Color

Your provider will assess the current color of your teeth, allowing them to determine the most appropriate and flattering shade to which they can whiten them. With that information, they can produce the right formula with the specific amount of teeth whitening solution.

2. Clean the Teeth

Before your teeth undergo the whitening process, they’ll be thoroughly cleaned with a pumice. This buffs away any buildup, removes plaque, and polishes the surface. 

This is a crucial part of the step since the solution can only adhere to dry teeth. After cleaning, your dentist will place retractors in your mouth to separate your tongue, lips, and gums from the whitening solution.

3. Apply the Solution

The solution used to whiten contains hydrogen peroxide, a potent agent for bleaching the teeth. Your provider will simply apply the solution to the front and allow it to sit for at least half an hour. They’ll then rinse your mouth thoroughly to eliminate any of the solution’s residue that may be left behind. 

4. Apply Fluoride Treatment

The fluoride treatment is used to elevate the shine and lock in your teeth’s newly whitened hue. It can even help reduce or minimize plaque formation. Note that your teeth may feel sensitive when the treatment is complete, but this should subside within a few hours.

If you seek a reliable dentist for teeth whitening, visit the office of Elizabeth A. Loseke, DDS, PC. Proudly serving patients throughout Kearney, NE, the professionals at this dental practice offer a range of services to ensure your teeth and gums are always in wonderful condition. Visit the website for more information, or call (308) 234-4564 to schedule an appointment.