There are many reasons for seeking cosmetic dentistry in Chattanooga TN, but achieving a whiter smile in time for a big event is one of the most common. Whether it’s an upcoming business event, graduation, vacation, or wedding day, it’s important that you approach the teeth whitening process with care.
Before undergoing teeth whitening in Chattanooga TN, you must familiarize yourself with the timeline, realistic results, and tips needed to secure the best outcomes. Here’s all you need to know:
Understanding Different Teeth Whitening Methods
Research shows that 14% of the American population has undergone professional teeth whitening. Procedures usually focus on the use of hydrogen peroxide to bleach the teeth, thus giving them a whiter appearance.
When visiting the best dentist Chattanooga, you will typically have two whitening options available:
- In-office treatments use a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide. It is a dentist supervised, tackling deep stains and treatments are usually completed in a single session. They can also be supported by related procedures like advanced hygiene processes to remove plaque and tartar.
- Take-home solutions are still a stronger grade of concentration than over-the-counter items bought from the store. However, the concentrations of hydrogen peroxide are noticeably lower than in-office treatments. The process can still be customized with dispense trays for a tailored vibe.
Both examples of teeth whitening Chattanooga TN services can deliver a noticeable whiter smile.
Realistic Timelines
When you want to unlock a brighter smile and increased confidence ahead of a big event, giving yourself enough time to gain the desired results before the big event is vital.
In-office treatments typically last just 60-90 minutes. Crucially, the results are seen immediately thanks to the use of highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide. It should be noted, though, that this may cause tooth sensitivity and discomfort. Therefore, many patients will find that it is worth booking their session for at least 48-72 hours before the event.
Take-home procedures provide a more gradual approach. While patients typically start to see a change within 3 to 7 days, they could need up to one month before the best outcomes are seen. This can be an issue if the event is fast approaching, although it is a cheaper solution that’s also kinder to sensitive teeth.
What to Avoid: Before and After Treatment
Even the best dentist in Chattanooga can only deliver limited results if you fail to take responsibility for what happens before and after your treatment.
Whether it’s an at-home or in-office treatment, it’s important to avoid acidic foods and stain-causing foods. Moreover, patients should treat any gum disease they may have before undergoing procedures, especially in-office processes using highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide.
After the treatment, you should;
- Avoid tea, coffee, red wine, and other dark beverages.
- Steer clear of red sauces, curries, and stain-causing foods.
- Avoid processed meats, citric fruits, and acidic foods.
- Stop smoking or vaping.
- Avoid colored toothpastes and oral care products.
It’s important to do these things for 72 hours.
The Final Word
If you are looking for the fastest teeth whitening solution ahead of a big event, on-office whitening is highly advised. However, you will need to give yourself 72 hours after the treatment to avoid sensitivity. At-home products offer a gentler option if you have a few weeks, but the results may not be as noticeable.
To find out more about teeth whitening in Chattanooga TN, contact us now to book an appointment.