Hello, MondayMates! Today, we’re diving into the details of teeth whitening. If you’ve been wondering how a professional whitening session works, this article is for you.
What is In-Office Whitening?
A professional whitening session conducted at a dental clinic is known as in-office whitening. These sessions typically last about one hour and provide immediate results.
Step-by-Step Process
- Cleaning the Teeth
- If your teeth have stains or calculus (tartar), they need to be cleaned first. Whitening only affects the natural tooth structure—it won’t lighten stains or remove tartar buildup.
- Your dentist will perform a thorough cleaning to ensure the whitening process is effective.
- Preparation for Whitening
- A protective barrier is applied to your gums to shield them from the whitening gel.
- A mouth retractor is placed to keep your lips and cheeks away from the teeth and protect the soft tissues.
- Applying the Whitening Gel
- A hydrogen peroxide-based whitening gel is carefully applied to your teeth.
- This process is typically repeated two to three times, with each application lasting 15 to 20 minutes.
- Final Rinse and Completion
- After approximately one hour, the whitening gel is removed and your teeth are rinsed.
- The gum barrier and mouth retractor are also taken off, marking the end of the session.
Post-Whitening Care
Before you leave, your dentist will provide guidelines on what to eat and drink. Dietary restrictions usually last only a couple of days and mainly involve avoiding colored foods and drinks. Common recommendations include:
- Avoid: Coffee, tea, red wine, dark sauces, and highly pigmented foods.
- Opt for: White or light-coloured foods like plain rice, yogurt, pasta, and chicken.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know what to expect from a professional whitening session, you can go into the process feeling prepared and confident! If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to our team. We’re always happy to help!
See you in the next article—take care, MondayMates!
