Professional Teeth Whitening Quincy, IL
One of today's most popular dental procedures is teeth whitening. From couples planning a wedding to job-seekers hoping to impress, people of all ages and lifestyles seek brighter smiles. Professional teeth whitening is a treatment, or series of treatments, that dentists perform in-office to eliminate stains and brighten yellowed or discolored teeth.
Professional teeth whitening is available at Buffalo Prairie Dental in Quincy and the surrounding area. Teeth whitening can boost self-confidence and play a role in successful business and social interactions. Buffalo Prairie Dental can help patients learn whether they are a good candidate for this procedure and what results they can expect. Contact our office at (217) 334-4312 to make an appointment.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening
Having a great smile can have an impact on an individual's business and social interactions. The National Institutes of Health points to several studies showing beautiful teeth can boost self-esteem and aid people in social situations and relationships. In the business world, an attractive smile can help bring employment opportunities and aid in career advancement. The self-confidence gained by having a pleasing appearance is equally important for both men and women.
Several teeth whitening options abound on the market today. However, professional teeth whitening remains the best, most personalized option. Only a dentist knows how to bring about the best results possible — all with a personalized touch.
“The National Institutes of Health points to several studies showing good-looking teeth can boost self-esteem and aid people in social situations and relationships.”
Candidacy for Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is a viable treatment option for many people. However, patients should have a consultation to determine whether they are an ideal candidate for this treatment. Anyone who is allergic to peroxide, the whitening agent, should not get this treatment. We also do not recommend teeth whitening for pregnant or lactating women.
Candidates should be in good oral health, without gum disease or worn down enamel. Cavities should get treated before people can consider getting their teeth whitened. Teeth whitening works best for people with yellow teeth, but some patients with brown teeth have also received positive results. Gray or purple discoloration indicates trauma or decay, which cannot be fixed by teeth whitening.
“Anyone who is allergic to peroxide, the whitening agent, should not get this treatment.”
The Difference Between Bleaching and Whitening
Both at-home and in-office teeth whitening solutions contain peroxide, which is also in bleach and hair lightening products. It offers the same lightening effects as chlorine bleach without the dangers and is the reason many people refer to whitening as "bleaching." Among dental professionals, whitening typically refers to the removal of surface stains, while bleaching goes a little further to lighten the tooth enamel itself.
According to WebMD, over-the-counter teeth whitening products use a low concentration of peroxide, typically from 3% to 20%. Dentists use solutions with a higher concentration, usually between 15% and 42%. The higher concentration used by dentists means that the process of teeth whitening can be accomplished much faster.
“Among dental professionals, whitening typically refers to the removal of surface stains, while bleaching goes a little further to lighten the tooth enamel itself.”
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Laser Teeth Whitening
Laser teeth whitening can brighten teeth by up to 10 shades. This treatment involves spreading a bleaching agent on teeth and using a special laser that generates heat to enhance its effectiveness. This speeds up the bleaching process for quick and dramatic results.
Although laser whitening is not long, it is precise. This treatment should only be performed by a licensed professional. Not all patients qualify for this procedure, so it is essential to speak with our team to determine whether this service is right for them.
“Not all patients qualify for this procedure, so it is essential to speak with our team to determine whether this service is right for them.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. Who should receive professional teeth whitening?
Q. What is laser teeth whitening?
Q. Are at-home teeth whitening treatments effective?
Q. What are the benefits of teeth whitening?
Q. Is teeth whitening the same as teeth bleaching?
People Also Ask
Q. How should you choose the right treatment and cosmetic dentist?
Q. What are the benefits of teeth whitening?
Q. What are the benefits of teeth whitening at a dentist's office?
Cautions Against Teeth Whitening At Home
While teeth whitening is also possible at home through over-the-counter kits, it is important to approach with caution. Some of these whitening kits contain questionable ingredients that can do more harm than good. While do-it-yourself teeth whitening at home sounds convenient, many of these tips can cause serious problems and do not produce effective results.
Since our team supervises professional teeth whitening, we can use a stronger bleaching solution. We can also ensure that sensitive gums do not become more irritated while producing safe and reliable results. Ultimately, professional teeth whitening produces the most precise and effective results.
“Ultimately, professional teeth whitening produces the most precise and effective results.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Will my insurance pay for treatment?
A. Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure. Because the process is not vital to a patient's health, many insurance carriers do not cover it. Always consult your provider before making a decision.
Q. How long does teeth whitening last?
A. Depending on the whitening solution, how it is administered, and the patients themselves, results will vary. The effects of OTC whitening products will typically last several weeks to several months, while professional teeth whitening usually lasts several years.
Q. How does teeth whitening work?
A. A dentist provides professional teeth whitening by applying a peroxide solution to teeth. The peroxide penetrates the enamel and begins oxidizing tooth molecules. This process causes teeth to reflect more light and appear colorless or white.
Q. Does teeth whitening hurt?
A. Professional teeth whitening administered by a dentist does not hurt because trays are custom-made to fit a patient's teeth. OTC products use a tray that is the same for each consumer. That means they cannot control the amount of peroxide used or the possibility of the solution leaking onto the gums and causing irritation.
Q. Will whitening remove smoking stains?
A. Most stains caused by smoking can be removed by professional teeth whitening. Every patient is different, however, and some teeth may not respond as expected. In cases such as these, patients may want to consider veneers or other alternatives.
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Cosmetic Dentistry Terminology
Call Us Today
Professional teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to achieve a whiter, brighter smile. Our team at Buffalo Prairie Dental can help. Call us today at 217-334-4312 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
About our business and website security
- Buffalo Prairie Dental was established in 2019.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Adams County, Brown County, Marion County and Lewis County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Quincy, West Quincy, Taylor, Payson, Camp Point, Mendon, Mt Sterling and La Grange
- National Provider Identifier Database (1750440632). View NPI Registry Information
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