Do you ever wonder why some people have teeth that are dazzlingly white? The secret may be simpler than you think: professional teeth whitening. At Rio Vista Family Dentistry, we specialize in teeth whitening in Mission Valley, helping our patients achieve the bright, beautiful smile they've always desired. In this blog post, we'll take you through the ins and outs of professional teeth whitening, so you can understand exactly what it entails.
What is Professional Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that lightens teeth and helps to remove stains and discoloration. It is one of the most popular dental procedures because it can significantly improve how your teeth look.
- Most dentists perform teeth whitening.
- Whitening is not a one-time procedure. It will need to be repeated from time to time if you want to maintain the brighter color.
The outer layer of a tooth is called the enamel. The color of natural teeth is created by the reflection and scattering of light off the enamel, combined with the color of the dentin under it. Your genes affect the thickness and smoothness of the enamel. Thinner enamel allows more of the color of the dentin to show through. Having smoother or rougher enamel also affects the reflection of light and therefore the color.
How Does It Work?
Professional teeth whitening procedures generally involve the use of a bleaching agent, most commonly hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These agents penetrate the enamel to reach the discolored molecules in your teeth.
- Once the bleaching agent is applied, it will begin to break down into water and a type of oxygen molecule.
- These oxygen molecules spread into the enamel and dentin, breaking apart the discolored molecules and lightening the overall color of the teeth.
The entire process typically takes about an hour, and the results can be dramatic.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening
There are numerous benefits to having your teeth professionally whitened.
- First and foremost, you'll see a significant improvement in the appearance of your smile.
- This can boost your self-confidence and make you more comfortable in social situations.
- Professional whitening is also safe and effective, and it can be customized to give you the exact level of whiteness you desire.
Risks and Considerations
While teeth whitening is generally safe, there are a few risks and considerations to keep in mind.
- Some people may experience tooth sensitivity or gum irritation following the procedure.
- It's also important to remember that teeth whitening isn't permanent.
- To maintain your results, you may need to have the procedure repeated every few years, and avoid foods and habits that can stain your teeth, like smoking or drinking coffee.
Professional Teeth Whitening in San Diego
If you're ready to transform your smile with professional teeth whitening, we invite you to reach out to us at Rio Vista Family Dentistry. Our team of skilled dentists, including Dr. Joy Bonifacio Lockwood, Dr. Raquel Reyes, and Dr. Patricia Campillo, would be delighted to help you achieve the radiant smile you've always wanted. Call us today at (619) 299-1122 to request an appointment.
