A beautiful and bright smile can make a significant difference in how you feel about yourself and how others perceive you. Cosmetic dentistry treatments (like professional teeth whitening in Dallas, TX!) are an excellent way to safely achieve that bright smile you’ve always wanted.
Are you ready to brighten your smile, boost your self-esteem, and better your overall health? Contact the team at Lakewood Dental Group to see if professional teeth whitening in Dallas, TX, is right for you! All patients (even new patients!) can contact our Lakewood dentists at (214) 827-1885
Like any other dental procedure, preparation and aftercare are critical to ensure that teeth whitening results are long-lasting and satisfactory. In this blog, we discuss how to prepare for professional teeth whitening and how to conduct proper aftercare afterward.
Preparing for Professional Teeth Whitening
Before undergoing professional teeth whitening in Dallas, TX, there are a few essential things that you need to consider. Conducting research and preparing yourself are critical for your success and comfort during and after treatment.
There are a few ways that dentists recommend preparing for professional teeth whitening to ensure optimal results. Let’s go over these recommendations now.
Consult With Your Dentist
Before you begin any teeth whitening treatments, you should consult with your dentist. Your dentist will examine your teeth to determine the best course of treatment for you. They will also evaluate the condition of your teeth and gums to make sure that they are healthy enough for whitening.
If your teeth and gums are not healthy enough for whitening treatments, then your dentist may suggest treating any oral health issues before proceeding. For example, they may recommend:
- Cavity removal
- Dental restorations, like fillings, crowns, and bridges
- Gum disease treatment
Get Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned
Even with daily brushing and flossing, it is still possible to accumulate cavity-causing plaque. But, not only does plaque lead to cavities and gum disease, it also blocks bleaching agents from reaching dental stains. This means that plaque can lead to patchy or underwhelming results after professional teeth whitening in Dallas, TX.
It is essential to have your teeth cleaned by a trained dental hygienist before undergoing a teeth whitening treatment. Professional cleanings help to remove any plaque or tartar buildup that may interfere with the whitening process, which leads to better, longer-lasting results.
Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks
You should avoid consuming foods and drinks that may stain your teeth before undergoing teeth whitening, such as:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Red wine
- Berries
- Dark chocolate
- Soy sauce
It is also advisable to avoid smoking and alcoholic beverages before treatment. Steer clear of acidic treats, too, as they can increase tooth sensitivity during whitening treatments.
Take Pain Medication
Teeth whitening can cause some sensitivity and discomfort, especially if you have thin tooth enamel or sensitive teeth. While post-whitening tooth sensitivity typically diminishes with time, dentists recommend taking over-the-counter pain medications to facilitate your ultimate comfort.
Our Dallas dentists recommend taking over-the-counter painkillers roughly 30 minutes before treatment. Ideal painkillers for teeth whitening may include:
- Ibuprofen
- Acetaminophen
- Naproxen
Aftercare for Professional Teeth Whitening
The results of in-office teeth whitening are virtually immediate, but they will not last forever. While it’s true that professional teeth whitening in Dallas, TX, can last for up to three years, these results require consistent aftercare and consideration.
After undergoing professional teeth whitening, it is crucial to take proper care of your teeth to ensure that the results last for as long as possible. Here are some tips that we recommend for proper post-whitening aftercare:
Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks
Much like preparing for teeth whitening in Dallas, TX, you should avoid consuming foods and drinks that may stain your teeth after treatment. These may include foods and drinks such as:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Red wine
- Berries
- Dark chocolate
- Fruit juices
- Soy sauce
Patients should also avoid all tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco products.
Alcoholic beverages of all kinds can worsen post-whitening tooth sensitivity, which is why patients should avoid them after whitening. Furthermore, acidic, cold, and sugary treats can worsen tooth sensitivity after whitening treatments, so it’s best to limit or avoid them.
Use a Straw
If you want to drink highly-pigmented beverages after teeth whitening in Dallas, TX, then we recommend using a reusable straw. A straw can help minimize the contact between the teeth and highly-pigmented beverages, like coffee, tea, and red wine.
Brush and Floss Regularly
Floss at least once a day, and brush twice a day (for at least two minutes) with a fluoride toothpaste and soft-bristled brush. Regular brushing and flossing help to remove plaque and prevent stains from developing on your teeth.
Use Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
Teeth whitening can cause some sensitivity and discomfort, especially if you have thinner tooth enamel or particularly sensitive teeth. You may need to switch to a specialized toothpaste to help alleviate any discomfort. Just search for toothpastes that say “for sensitive teeth” to get post-whitening pain relief.
Schedule Regular Dental Appointments
Regular dental check-ups are essential to maintaining optimal oral health. But, that’s not all–regular visits with our Dallas dentists ensure that the results of your teeth whitening treatments last as long as possible.
Your dentist can evaluate the condition of your teeth and make personalized recommendations for any necessary treatments to keep your teeth healthy and white, such as:
- Dental cleanings
- Gum disease treatment
- Cavity removal
Schedule Routine Touch-Ups
Although the results of professional teeth whitening in Dallas, TX, can last for years, it is normal for the results to slowly fade over time. Scheduling routine touch-up appointments can help you maintain your bright smile for longer.
Professional Teeth Whitening in Dallas, TX
Whether you want to prepare for teeth whitening or need help with aftercare, the team at Lakewood Dental Group is here for you. Contact our friendly dentists in Dallas, TX, to see if teeth whitening or other cosmetic treatments are right for you and your smile.
Future and existing patients can easily request appointments here, or they may call our dental office in Lakewood at (214) 827-1885 for scheduling and information.