Smile Brightening Treatments from a Cosmetic Dentist

Cosmetic dentists aim to help patients get the smile of their dreams. Because everyone has different ideas of what their dream smile looks like, their care plans are different, making it possible to have one or multiple treatments. However, more often than not, a smile-brightening treatment is included. Cosmetic dentists primarily use three proven ways to brighten a smile.

Whitening vs. bleaching: What is the difference?

Before exploring the various treatment options, it is important to learn the differences between whitening and bleaching. It is common for patients to use these terms interchangeably, sometimes rightfully so. However, cosmetic dentists can whiten a smile by using non-bleaching or bleaching products. However, bleaching occurs with the help of a solution containing two types of peroxide: hydrogen and carbamide. It can remove surface and deep stains, making the teeth even whiter than their natural state.

Brightening options

In-office teeth whitening

There are two types of teeth whitening: in the office and at home. When provided by a cosmetic dentist, both options are professional grade. Starting with the in-office option, patients can brighten their teeth multiple shades in one appointment. These appointments can take up to 60 minutes, depending on how bright a patient wants their teeth.

The cosmetic dentist will likely classify this treatment as bleaching due to the peroxide-infused solution they use. It involves cleaning the patient's teeth before applying a protectant gel or barrier on the gums and tongue to protect them during the treatment. The dentist will apply the bleaching solution to the teeth and then aim a heating lamp or laser toward them at 20-minute intervals until reaching the desired whiteness level.

At-home teeth whitening

The second type of teeth whitening from a cosmetic dentist is a take-home tray system. These systems are similar to those seen over the counter at a pharmacy or grocery store. However, professional kits are equipped with stronger bleaching agents than those bought over the counter. In addition, the dentist often provides the patient with a custom fit tray.

To acquire the kit, patients must schedule an appointment with the cosmetic dentist. Please be sure to thoroughly clean the teeth by brushing and flossing before the appointment. During the appointment, the dentist will take impressions of the teeth. These impressions allow a lab to fabricate custom trays that take roughly two weeks to complete. Patients will return to the office once their trays are ready so the cosmetic dentist can provide proper instructions for use.

Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin shells that the cosmetic dentist bonds directly to the front of the teeth. As the name suggests, they consist of porcelain, a durable material that looks and feels natural and is highly resistant to stains. Many patients choose this option because it provides a complete smile makeover. However, patients must know that veneers do not correct issues with the natural teeth; they only conceal them.

During the appointment, the cosmetic dentist reshapes the teeth' surface before trimming off some of the enamel. The patient will be able to choose the brightness level of the veneers. Considering the natural teeth are completely concealed, patients can go as bright as they wish. The cosmetic dentist will then make a model of the teeth and send it to an offsite lab for veneer fabrication. The lab ships the veneers to the dental office within a few weeks. The patient will attend their second appointment to bond veneers using a special cement.