What to Expect During a Teeth Whitening Appointment

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure aimed at enhancing the brightness of your smile. If you're considering a teeth whitening appointment, it's essential to know what to expect to ensure a smooth and successful experience. Here's a complete guide on the steps involved, what you should prepare for, and some tips to help you maintain that dazzling smile.

Understanding Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening involves the use of bleaching agents to remove stains and discoloration from your teeth. This procedure can be performed in a dental office, at a teeth whitening clinic, or at home with whitening kits. While both methods are effective, treatments at professional clinics yield quicker and more dramatic results.

The whitening agents generally contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These compounds break down stains and lighten the overall color of your teeth.

Whitening "bubble" chairs used at Beambar

Before Your Appointment: Preparing for Teeth Whitening

Little preparation is required for a teeth whitening appointment. Simply maintain proper oral hygiene practices, and we ask that you eat something beforehand as you won't be able to eat for two hours after your teeth are whitened.

How Much Does It Cost to Get Your Teeth Whitened?

The cost of teeth whitening can vary significantly depending on several factors. On average, professional teeth whitening at a dentist ranges from $600 to $1,000. At Beambar, we offer teeth whitening starting at $179, whereas at-home whitening solutions typically cost around $40-$70.

Here's a breakdown of what influences these costs:

1. Type of Treatment: In-office treatments at a dentist typically cost the most. Even though the solution might be similar to that offered at a whitening clinic, dentists may charge more for their time. Take-home kits are often the most affordable solution as they often use carbamide peroxide, a less concentrated solution which will take several tries to show any results.
   

2. Type of Whitening Agent: Hydrogen peroxide, used at dentists and at Beambar, is the most effective whitening agent and will be the most expensive. Carbamide peroxide, used in most over-the-counter solutions, is less expensive as it takes longer to see results.

   
   

3. Duration of Treatment: Longer teeth whitening treatments are typically more expensive as the teeth whitening agent has more time to work.

   
   

4. Additional Services: Additional treatments, such as whitening gels or maintenance products, could also impact the total cost.

   
   

Insurance plans generally do not cover cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening, so it's wise to choose a whitening solution that does not set you back too much financially.

The Teeth Whitening Process: What Happens During Your Appointment?

Once you have arrived at your teeth whitening appointment, here is what you can typically expect during the whitening process:

1. Initial Survey: You will be asked a series of questions to ensure you are ready to have your teeth whitened (i.e., are you pregnant, do you have any serious dental issues your practitioner should be aware of).

2. Preparation: You will either brush your teeth or have your teeth cleaned to ensure there are no food particles interfering with the whitening process.

3. Protection of the Gums: A protective barrier or oil is applied to your gums to prevent irritation. This helps ensure a comfortable experience.

4. Application of the Whitening Agent: The whitening gel is applied to the teeth, often with a special light to activate the gel for enhanced results.

5. Light Activation (if used): If light activation is part of your treatment, it will usually be applied for a specific period. This process can significantly boost the effectiveness of the whitening.

6. Rinsing and Post-Treatment Care: After the recommended treatment time, the whitening agent will be rinsed off, and you will be provided with aftercare instructions to maintain your new smile.

   
   

The entire process can take anywhere from an hour to 2 hours depending on the specific treatment. At Beambar, it typically only takes an hour while at-home kits can take several weeks.

Aftercare: Maintaining Your Bright Smile

After your teeth whitening appointment, it's essential to follow specific aftercare instructions to prolong your results:

• Avoid Stain-Causing Foods and Beverages: For at least 24 to 48 hours after treatment, it is advisable to avoid coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, and berries. These can lead to immediate staining.

• Good Oral Hygiene Practices: Continue to practice excellent oral hygiene. Brush twice a day and floss regularly to keep your teeth clean and the whitening results intact.

• Use a Straw: When consuming beverages that may stain, consider using a straw to reduce direct contact with your teeth.

• Regular Dental Cleanings: Schedule regular dental cleanings every six months to maintain optimal oral health and whiteness.

• Consider Touch-Up Treatments: Depending on your smile goals, you may want to discuss touch-up treatments to keep your teeth looking bright and white.

Maintaining your smile doesn't only depend on the treatment you receive but also on how you care for your teeth afterward.

Final Thoughts on Teeth Whitening

Choosing to whiten your teeth can be a significant step toward improving your smile and self-confidence. By understanding what to expect from the procedure, from pre-appointment preparations to aftercare advice, you can ensure a satisfying experience. If you're looking for more information on professional options, consider exploring a teeth whitening service to find the best treatment personalized for you.

Whether you opt for a whitening clinic or at-home kits, always ensure you have a safe and effective teeth whitening journey.