If you feel self-conscious about your smile due to staining or discoloration, teeth whitening is a straightforward, safe procedure that can transform your teeth within a single appointment. This guide goes over the basic steps of the procedure so you can know what to expect.

What Are the Steps to Teeth Whitening?

1. Consultation & Recording Current Shade 

Your dentist will first review your oral health history and ensure teeth whitening is the right treatment for you. It may not be the best solution if you have large fillings or crowns on your front teeth, as bleaching agents do not whiten veneers or implants.

After the consultation, the dentist will record your current shade for post-treatment comparison. They will also present a shade chart comprised of artificial teeth to help you decide what shade you’d like. With this information, they can determine the right concentration of whitening agent to use. 

2. Cleaning & Pretreatment 

The dentist will then clean and polish your teeth to remove plaque and tartar and ensure that the whitening agent can effectively penetrate the enamel. Afterward, they will dry the surface of the teeth to remove saliva. They will then apply a special gel or rubber sheet to protect your gums, lips, and cheeks from the whitening solution, which can cause sensitivity in these tissues. 

3. Applying the Solution 

Most whitening procedures involve applying a hydrogen peroxide solution. This works by temporarily opening teeth pores to penetrate the outer enamel layer and remove stains. Depending on how much your teeth are being lightened, the solution will remain in place for 30 to 90 minutes. Your dentist might use a special light or laser to activate or “cure” the treatment afterward. The process is painless. However, you might experience some slight tooth sensitivity.

4. Rinsing 

To finish the treatment, the dentist will rinse the whitening solution from your teeth and remove all dental barriers. They’ll hand you a mirror so you can examine the results and ensure you’re satisfied. Your dentist will then discuss best practices to maintain your new smile. Avoid highly pigmented foods or beverages like coffee, red wine, or tomato sauce for at least 24 hours when you go home. You may also want to avoid very hot or cold foods to avoid exacerbating teeth or gum sensitivity, which may last for a few days.

If you’re interested in teeth whitening, turn to Spring Branch Dental Care Dr. Chavez. This clinic offers comprehensive general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry services, from oral exams and cleanings to whitening treatments and veneers. Dr. Chavez has been a dentist for over 25 years and has faithfully served North San Antonio, Comal County, and surrounding areas of Texas for the past 16 years. Call (830) 438-7444 to speak with a friendly team member, or visit the website to learn more.