For many people hoping to have a brighter smile, professional teeth whitening is a healthy option. In-office visits use bleaching agents to achieve lighter and faster results than over-the-counter treatments. However, this use of more potent agents means patients should consider their current dental history before deciding on professional whitening treatments.

It is important to weigh the options with a dentist. Even if previous dental work or oral complications prevent a patient from professional whitening treatments now, future therapy for progressive discoloration is possible with restorative and preventative care. The primary concern is figuring out which patient can benefit most from whitening treatments and who requires further dental care prior to a bleaching procedure.

Why are whitening procedures recommended for healthy teeth?

While dental whitening is beneficial for many people, dental professionals generally recommend such treatments for patients with permanent, natural teeth and good oral health. A dentist also considers the color of the stains. Professional bleaching treatments can be an excellent option for people with prominent teeth yellowing. However, the American Dental Association advises against whitening treatments for patients with brown or gray discoloration.

Professional teeth whitening treatments use trays customized for patients to help shield the gums from the bleaching chemicals. Healthy gumlines and teeth also have better resilience, so patients generally experience less sensitivity both during and after the procedure. Candidates with good oral hygiene and health are more likely to be recommended for professional bleaching treatments. Other patients may be advised to look into restorative and preventative care before attempting these procedures.

Who may require further dental work for healthy white teeth?

There are several factors to consider before determining the immediate eligibility of a patient for whitening:

  • Gum health
  • Existence of caps, crowns or other restorative dentistry applications
  • Sensitivities and allergies

Patients with gum disease are less likely to fair well with the chemicals used in professional whitening treatments, sometimes experiencing tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. Because of these risks to patients, dentists typically suggest treating the disease first, improving gum health before attempting to reverse discoloration.

For people with existing dental work, like crowns, whitening treatments tend not to be viable options. While bleaching works to whiten yellowish stains on natural teeth, restorative appliances do not brighten in the same way. However, patients with prior dental work can still achieve brighter smiles through other dental procedures, such as bonding or veneers. Both procedures work by applying a substance or material — bonding resin or porcelain — that a dentist then colors to match surrounding teeth or a patient's desired brightness.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Professional Teeth Whitening in Weatherford, TX.

Conclusion

Professional teeth whitening achieves rapid results and is appropriate and healthy for many dental patients. The chemicals can present risks of sensitivity to some patients, primarily those with existing dental health issues, and the treatments may not be effective with replacement teeth. However, whatever the current condition of a patient's mouth, a dental professional can help them develop a bright and healthy smile to be proud of.

Request an appointment or call Millar Family Dentistry at 817-885-5214 for an appointment in our Weatherford office.

Recent Posts

Who Is A Candidate For All-on-4?

All-on-4 is a dental restoration option for people who have lost most or all their teeth. This option involves supporting dentures with four implants placed inside the jawbone. The convenience of the entire procedure makes it an appealing choice for people who want implant-based restoration. To determine a patient’s candidacy for the procedure, the dentist…

How Long Is The Dental Sealant Procedure?

Brushing, flossing, using fluoride, and eating a healthy diet are all proven methods of fighting cavities. However, sometimes a dental sealant is needed to help prevent plaque from forming in the uneven pits and fissures that exist on teeth, particularly molars that are naturally rough and uneven. Sealants are a thin coating made of plastic…

Periodontics: The Key To Healthy Gums And A Strong Foundation For Your Teeth

Periodontics, the branch of dentistry focused on gum health and supporting structures of the teeth, is essential for maintaining a strong and healthy smile. Through preventive care, diagnosis, and treatment of gum issues, periodontic treatment helps protect against gum disease, tooth loss, and bone deterioration. In a general dentist’s office, periodontic treatments can make a…

Millar Family Dentistry

Share
Published by
Millar Family Dentistry

Recent Posts

Who Is a Candidate for All-on-4?

The All-on-4 dental implant restoration has an appearance and function that almost match natural teeth.

2 days ago

How Long is the Dental Sealant Procedure?

The process of applying dental sealant is simple and pain free. The dentist or hygienist…

1 month ago

Periodontics: The Key to Healthy Gums and a Strong Foundation for Your Teeth

Periodontics, the branch of dentistry focused on gum health and supporting structures of the teeth,…

2 months ago

FAQs: Clear Aligners for Adults

Clear aligners, also called invisible aligners, are transparent aligner trays that are considered an aesthetic…

3 months ago

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are stable structures that can replace missing teeth. They consist of durable, biocompatible…

3 months ago

How to Get Approved for Dental Implants

The dental implant process is lengthy and intricate. Therefore, patients must receive a thorough examination…

4 months ago