Teeth Whitening – Buda, TX
A BRIGHTER SMILE THE EASY WAY
Teeth whitening from our Buda, TX cosmetic dentist, also called teeth bleaching, is the process of lightening the enamel using a gel designed to penetrate the outer surface to get to deeper stains and discoloration. These professional systems can be applied through in-office treatments and custom-fit take-home trays. The result is often a whiter, brighter smile that can be trusted to last for several months.
Who is a Good Candidate for Teeth Whitening?
If you are struggling with tooth stains caused by years of drinking coffee, or you have finally kicked the habit of smoking but are left with deep discoloration, you may find that teeth whitening from our experts at Buda Dental Professionals is right for you.
When meeting with a member of our team for a consultation, we’ll examine your smile to determine the severity of your stains as well as the condition of your oral health. If it appears that there are signs of decay or gum disease, we’ll first need to administer appropriate treatment before whitening your smile.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Teeth whitening uses a specially designed gel made from peroxide-based bleach. The gel is either applied in-office or placed in custom-fit trays at home. The peroxide bleach penetrates the outer layer of the enamel to reach deep, intrinsic stains that form over time. As the stain is removed, the teeth appear whiter and brighter. The materials used by our team are more concentrated and effective than the over-the-counter versions sold online and in stores.
Take-Home Teeth Whitening
You will receive custom take-home trays that are made to fit your mouth correctly and comfortably. When combined with the high-grade bleaching gel and worn according to the designated amount of time determined by your dentist, you can expect to see results in as little as two weeks!
In-Office Teeth Whitening
Once we isolate your teeth to prevent any of the gel from reaching your gums, we will apply the gel to each tooth, allowing the bleach to eliminate intrinsic and extrinsic stains (surface and below the enamel). In just one hour, your teeth will look whiter and brighter than before.
Tips for Maintaining Your Brighter Smile
Professional teeth whitening is not a permanent cosmetic solution, so you will need to take the time to maintain your results at home so that they last longer. You can do this by:
- Committing to good oral hygiene every day. This includes brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an ADA-approved mouthwash.
- Limiting or avoiding dark-colored beverages and foods that can cause stains and discoloration.
- Keeping your regularly scheduled dental visits every six months so that a thorough checkup and cleaning can occur.
- Giving up bad habits that can damage and stain your teeth, such as smoking and using our teeth as tools.
- Seeking ways to touch up your teeth should you notice your results fading.
Understanding the Cost of Teeth Whitening
A bright, beautiful smile shouldn't cost you an arm or a leg. There's no flat fee for teeth whitening, but we strive to keep our services affordable for everyone. Your dentist at Buda Dental Professionals will create the personalized plan you need to combat stains and discoloration without breaking the bank.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Teeth Whitening
Every mouth is as unique as fingerprints, which is why there's no set rate for teeth whitening. Many factors will affect the cost, like if you need any preparatory procedures. It's not unusual to require a dental cleaning or other treatments before benefiting from teeth whitening. We will create a personalized plan and a member of our team will review your estimate. You'll know exactly what you'll have to pay before committing to anything.
Types of Teeth Whitening: What Do They Cost?
The cost of teeth whitening is also influenced by the type of whitening system you choose, like:
- In-Office Whitening: Your teeth can get up to 8 shades whiter during your lunch break. After placing a protective barrier on your gums and lips, we will apply the whitening agent, which is activated using a special dental light for three 15-minute intervals.
- At-Home Whitening: You can achieve in-office results from the comfort of your home. Your dentist will give you everything you need to whiten your teeth gradually for 2 weeks. You'll use the kit daily to resolve surface and age-related discoloration.
Inexpensive Teeth Whitening vs. Professional Teeth Whitening
If you've ever used an over-the-counter whitening product, you probably weren't satisfied with the results. That's because they don't contain professional-strength whitening agents. Not to mention, not all stains respond to teeth whitening. Visiting a dentist for teeth whitening will provide you with the noticeable, lasting results you desire. You'll benefit from safe solutions that won't damage your teeth or gums.
Options for Making Teeth Whitening Affordable
Your financial situation shouldn't stand in your way of achieving your best smile. We offer various options to keep cosmetic dentistry affordable, including:
- Traditional Payments: Our office accepts all traditional payment methods, including cash, personal checks, and credit cards.
- Dental Insurance: It's rare for dental insurance to cover elective services, like teeth whitening. However, your benefits may cover certain aspects of your treatment plan, like your consultation or any preliminary procedures. A member of our office will work on your behalf with your dental insurance to maximize any applicable coverage. They'll explain how your benefits are being used and if you owe a remaining balance.
- Monthly Payments: You can pay any out-of-pocket dental expenses through a third-party financing company, like CareCredit. Based on your credit approval, you can benefit from little or no interest in financing to keep a stunning smile within your budget.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
We know you probably want to know more about teeth whitening before investing in the treatment, so we've compiled a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions to address your concerns and curiosities about the process. Whether you're wondering about the safety measures, the types of procedures available, potential side effects, or the longevity of the results, we've got you covered. Our aim is to provide you with reliable information, demystifying myths and ensuring you're well-informed before making a decision.
Does Tooth Whitening Hurt?
This is a common concern, as many patients, whether seeking preventive care or cosmetic upgrades, are often hesitant about treatments due to fear of pain. Fortunately, with professional whitening treatments being entirely custom, the likelihood of experiencing tooth sensitivity is significantly reduced. If you are someone whose teeth are naturally more sensitive, it's crucial to communicate this to us. We may advise spacing out treatments, avoiding hot beverages post-treatment, and can even recommend specialty toothpaste to mitigate sensitivity. With the right precautions, your journey to a brighter smile can be a comfortable one.
What’s the Difference Between Professional and Store-Bought Teeth Whitening?
How do professional and store-bought teeth whitening methods differ? Both approaches target stains and discoloration, but the comparison largely ends there. Store-bought kits tend to offer generic trays and weaker brightening agents, whereas professional whitening is meticulously tailored to fit an individual's specific smile aspirations. Before embarking on a professional journey, dentists conduct an in-depth examination, evaluating any current restorations like veneers or crowns, and assessing the overall health of your teeth and gums. Choosing a professional route not only guarantees safety but also promises pronounced outcomes.
How Can I Make My Teeth Whitening Results Last?
The duration of your whitening results, ranging from several months to a few years, is largely contingent on how you maintain your rejuvenated smile. A robust at-home oral care regimen is paramount: brush at least twice daily, floss once a day, and incorporate regular use of mouthwash. Don't skip your biannual dental appointments; they play a crucial role in staving off stains, ensuring thorough cleaning, and addressing potential dental issues early on. To extend the vibrancy of your results, moderate the intake of dark-colored edibles and drinks. Consider using a straw for beverages like coffee or wine that stain. Lastly, ditch detrimental habits such as smoking for optimum dental health.
Does Teeth Whitening Damage Enamel?
Properly formulated teeth whitening gels do not harm healthy enamel. However, if teeth are weakened by decay or gum disease, the whitening chemicals might pose issues, underscoring the importance of a thorough dental check-up prior to whitening. DIY remedies, such as activated charcoal or hydrogen peroxide, may inadvertently cause more harm than benefit. Excessive use of whitening products could also erode enamel over time. Before embarking on a whitening journey, it's essential to seek advice from your dentist. Even if you choose against a professional treatment, they can offer guidance on safe products and practices to achieve your desired smile.