What Makes a Good Candidate for Professional Teeth Whitening Treatments?
Because your smile can reveal a lot about your personality and character, it’s one of the most critical components in creating a positive and long-lasting impression. However, discolored or stained teeth can hold you back from smiling with great confidence. Through professional teeth whitening, you can finally get rid of teeth discoloration to get back that confident and genuine smile. But, is it for everyone? What makes a good candidate for teeth whitening?
Of all the cosmetic dentistry procedures, teeth whitening is the most in-demand. Because it’s generally safe and painless, almost anyone who has yellow, stained or discolored teeth can be a candidate for this procedure. However, there are certain conditions that can make you a good candidate for professional teeth whitening.
Individuals who have healthy and disease-free teeth and gums are the most ideal candidates. Whitening agents may cause increased teeth sensitivity and gum irritation; therefore, cavities and gum disease must be resolved first before undergoing this process. This method also works best when the teeth are free from fillings and restorations. Bear in mind that dental restorative materials are not whitened through this technique. Those who consistently adhere to healthy dental hygiene practices are also good candidates for teeth whitening. Regular and thorough brushing of teeth, flossing, and regular dental visits are essential for the results to last longer.
An ideal candidate must also have realistic expectations about the whitening process, its results and limitations. The effects of teeth whitening are only temporary. Poor dental hygiene, smoking, and intake of foods that stain the teeth can especially shorten its effects.
There are conditions under which teeth whitening is not recommended. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under the age of 16, and those with sensitive teeth and gums must consult their dentists for an alternative treatment. In addition, hypersensitivity to peroxide is a contraindication to teeth whitening. Peroxide is the whitening agent found in bleaching products. As mentioned, those with gum disease and cavities are not recommended to undergo teeth whitening. These problems must be treated first before initiating any professional teeth whitening procedure.
To fully determine whether or not professional teeth whitening is the right cosmetic dentistry procedure for you, consult your Cleveland area cosmetic dentist. They will be able to answer your questions related to teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry treatments such as dental bonding and porcelain veneers.