Smile Assurance: 3 Reasons You Need a Consultation Before Teeth Whitening

It is easy to be tempted by the wide range of do-it-yourself teeth whitening products on shelves. Not only do they cost less than professional treatment, but they appear easy to use and promise “brighter, whiter smiles.” Most patients become frustrated because they are not achieving the results they desire. Still, the real concern is whether they are a good candidate for this type of treatment. If you are thinking about teeth whitening, here are 3 reasons to consider a professional consultation before starting the process.

Reason #1: Know What is Causing Your Tooth Discoloration.

Meeting with your cosmetic dentist for a consultation will ensure you understand what is causing your tooth discoloration. Oftentimes, stains can be intrinsic (within the enamel), extrinsic (on the surface), or age-related. Allowing a professional to evaluate this can determine the underlying cause and which treatment method will be most effective in removing these stains.

Also, if you know that certain medications cause your tooth discoloration, you will likely require additional treatments to achieve your desired goals. Without knowing this information, you may attempt to whiten your teeth and wonder why you’re not getting the results you want.

Reason #2: Obtain Safe & Effective Whitening Treatment.

Too many DIY whitening treatments leave smiles vulnerable and damaged. One-size-fits-all trays and strips do not cover all your teeth, leaving several discolored. Also, they can irritate your gum tissue due to their poor fit.

By opting for professional teeth whitening, you can discuss your dentist’s plans to address your stains, either with in-office treatment or a custom take-home kit. Their examination of your smile during your consultation will help them determine whether any teeth need additional care before whitening begins, as decay and gum disease can be problematic.

Reason #3: Reduce Potential Tooth Sensitivity.

Over-the-counter whitening products are commonly known to cause tooth sensitivity the more they are used. Unfortunately, this can make daily life more challenging, especially when trying to eat or drink. The reason is that many of the ingredients in these kits lack the strength to remove tooth discoloration effectively.

By choosing to see a professional, they can determine what approach to take during your consultation so that they know whether your smile is prone to sensitivity. Treatments can be spaced out, and extra precautions can be taken to ensure a pleasant, comfortable experience.

Get the reassurance you need before starting on the path to a brighter smile. By meeting with your cosmetic dentist for a consultation, you can be certain that your pearly whites will receive the safest, most reliable care.

About the Author
Dr. Laura Philipps is a cosmetic dentist with two decades of experience who believes in empowering her patients and boosting their confidence. Her extensive training and hands-on experience in the field allow her to effectively eliminate tooth stains and create healthier, natural-looking smiles that shine. If you want to remove discoloration from your appearance, visit our website or call (432) 570-4433 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Philipps.