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Who Qualifies for Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment?
At North East Dental Arts, our experienced North East, PA, dentists understand that a whiter smile can transform your appearance and boost your confidence. Professional teeth whitening treatments offer significantly better results than over-the-counter options, but not everyone is a suitable candidate for these advanced whitening procedures.
Before recommending any teeth whitening options, our dental team performs a comprehensive examination to evaluate your oral health and determine if professional whitening is right for you. We’ll assess your natural teeth, identify any extrinsic dental stains, and recommend the most effective teeth whitening treatment for your unique situation. To schedule your consultation at our North East dental office today, call (814) 725-4700.
Key Factors That Determine Your Teeth Whitening Candidacy
Oral Health Requirements
Good oral health is essential before undergoing any professional whitening treatment. If you have untreated tooth decay, periodontal disease, or exposed tooth roots, you may not be an ideal candidate until these issues are addressed. These conditions can lead to increased tooth sensitivity and discomfort during and after the whitening process. Our dentists will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums to ensure you’re ready for professional whitening treatments.
Age Considerations
Professional teeth whitening works best for adults (18 years and older). Most dentists don’t recommend professional whitening for children or teenagers because their tooth enamel is still developing and may be more sensitive to whitening gel and other professional whitening agents. Additionally, teeth whitening work isn’t appropriate for baby teeth.
If your child has discolored teeth, this often indicates an underlying issue that should be investigated rather than masked with whitening. We recommend scheduling a dental appointment to identify and treat the root cause of discoloration in younger patients.
Pregnancy and Nursing
While there’s limited research on the effects of teeth whitening during pregnancy, most dentists advise against professional whitening treatments if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. The natural aging process of teeth can be affected by hormonal changes during pregnancy, and although there’s no concrete evidence of harm, it’s best to postpone your journey to a whiter smile until after this period.
Existing Dental Restorations
If you have extensive dental work such as porcelain veneers, dental crowns, or dental bridges, you should know that professional whitening treatments won’t affect these restorations. The active ingredient in professional whitening gel (typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide) works by releasing oxygen molecules that break down stains on natural teeth but won’t lighten artificial materials.
For patients with visible restorations, our dentists may recommend alternative cosmetic treatments to achieve a more uniform smile. Conversely, if you’re planning to get dental restorations, we suggest completing your teeth whitening treatment first so your new dental work can be color-matched to your brightened natural teeth.
Other Important Considerations
Tooth Sensitivity and Surface Stains
Patients with already sensitive teeth should approach professional whitening with caution. The oxygen molecules in whitening gel that break down surface stains can temporarily increase sensitivity. However, our dental team can recommend desensitizing products and modified treatments to minimize discomfort while still achieving a beautiful smile.
Different types of stains respond differently to whitening treatments. Yellowish discoloration from the natural aging process, coffee, tea, or red wine typically responds well to professional whitening. However, stains from certain medications, excessive fluoride exposure, or chewing tobacco may require alternative treatments.
Medical Considerations
If you have severe health problems, including oral cancer or advanced gum disease, professional teeth whitening may not be recommended until your health improves. Always discuss your complete medical history with your dentist before pursuing any cosmetic dental procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is professional whitening permanent for teeth with root canals?
Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy can be whitened, but the results may not be as long-lasting as with vital teeth. Without a living nerve pulp, these teeth may discolor more quickly over time. Your dentist can discuss specialized approaches for whitening non-vital teeth.
Can I still receive professional teeth whitening if I have amalgam or metal fillings?
Yes, you can qualify for professional whitening with amalgam or metal fillings. However, be aware that these restorations won’t change color to match your newly whitened teeth. In some cases, whitening can make metal fillings more noticeable by contrast with your brighter natural teeth.
How long do professional whitening treatments last?
Results typically last from six months to two years, depending on your oral hygiene habits, diet, and lifestyle. Avoiding stain-causing foods and beverages, proper dental care, and occasional touch-up treatments can help maintain your whiter smile longer.
Achieve Your Healthy, Whiter Smile at North East Dental Arts
If you’re considering professional teeth whitening, the first step is determining if you’re a good candidate through a consultation with Dr. Dina Nuhfer. Our experienced team will evaluate your oral health, discuss your cosmetic goals, and recommend the most appropriate teeth whitening options for your unique situation.
Contact our North East dental office at (814) 725-4700 to schedule your teeth whitening consultation today. We proudly serve patients seeking a brighter, more confident smile throughout North East, Erie, Ripley, Findley Lake, and surrounding Pennsylvania communities.