Teeth whitening has become one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments today. Whether you are preparing for a special occasion or simply want a brighter smile, professional teeth whitening can deliver noticeable results. It is most effective and safe when performed by experts.
So, how do you prepare for teeth whitening? Dr. Boris Pinhasov, a board-certified orthodontist at BP Smiles NY, explains, “Most preparation is done by the dentist, including polishing your teeth and protecting your lips, cheeks, and gums. As for the patient, there’s not much pre-care, but post-care includes avoiding certain foods, as mentioned earlier.”
To learn more or to schedule a consultation, visit BP Smiles NY. Our experienced team, serving the communities of Flushing, Queens, NY, will assist you!
Understand the Teeth Whitening Process
Teeth whitening is a way to make your teeth look brighter and cleaner. It helps remove stains caused by food, drinks, or habits like smoking. There are different ways to whiten your teeth. Each method works a little differently.
- Professional whitening
Professional whitening is performed using powerful yet safe whitening agents. The procedure is customized to your needs and includes safeguards to protect your enamel and gums, ensuring effective results without discomfort.
- At-home whitening kits
These can be bought in stores or given to you by your orthodontist. These kits include gels, strips, or trays that you use at home. They take longer than professional whitening, but they can still work well if used correctly.
- Natural methods
While natural remedies like baking soda or hydrogen peroxide may seem appealing, they can erode enamel or irritate gums if not used properly. Always consult a professional before trying these methods.
How Do Orthodontists at BP Smiles Suggest Patients to Prepare for Teeth Whitening Procedure?
Conduct a dental exam
Before starting teeth whitening, our orthodontists suggest getting a dental exam. This helps check for cavities, gum problems, or other issues that need treatment.
Get your teeth cleaned professionally
A dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar from your teeth. This makes the whitening process more effective. Clean teeth allow the whitening product to work evenly.
Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth
Orthodontists at BP Smiles recommend using a desensitizing toothpaste for a week or two before the procedure. This helps reduce sensitivity.
Avoid foods and drinks that stain teeth
Stay away from dark-colored drinks like coffee, tea, or soda before whitening. These can leave stains on your teeth and make the whitening less effective.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water every day. Water helps rinse away food and bacteria from your teeth.
Post-Whitening Aftercare: Expert Tips from BP Smiles
Choose white or light-colored foods: Light-colored foods like rice, chicken, and yogurt are less likely to stain your teeth during the first 48 hours when the enamel is more porous after whitening.
Avoid smoking or using tobacco products: Smoking undoes whitening results. Additionally, it increases the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems. Avoiding tobacco ensures your teeth stay whiter for longer and promotes overall dental health.
Use a straw for dark beverages if needed: If you cannot avoid dark drinks, use a straw. This keeps the liquid away from your teeth and reduces the chance of staining.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Teeth Whitening Procedure
Do not clean your teeth first: Brush and floss to remove plaque for better whitening results.
Skipping a patch test: Test a small amount of gel to check for allergies or sensitivity.
Ignoring sensitivity preparation:
Use desensitizing toothpaste for two weeks if you have sensitive teeth or gums.
Experience Advanced Teeth Whitening Treatment at BP Smiles NY
At BP Smiles, we offer professional teeth whitening treatments that are much stronger and safer than over-the-counter products. We use advanced technology to ensure your teeth look naturally white and stay healthy.
Before starting any treatment, we carefully check your teeth and gums to make sure whitening is safe for you. Additionally, we provide personalized aftercare advice. Our team is always available to answer your questions. contact us or visit our clinic in Oakland Gardens and Flushing in Queens, NY!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you eat before a teeth whitening procedure?
You can eat before the procedure, but avoid foods that stain like coffee, tea, or red wine. Eating a light meal is a good idea to prevent hunger during the appointment.
Q: Is it okay to whiten your teeth if you have braces?
It is not recommended to whiten your teeth with braces because the whitening product cannot reach under the brackets. Wait until your braces are removed.
Q: Should you avoid alcohol-based mouthwash before whitening?
You should try to avoid alcohol-based mouthwash as it can dry out your mouth, potentially increasing sensitivity and discomfort during whitening.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your physician for any medical concerns or before starting any treatment. Do not ignore professional medical advice due to the information read here. The authors are not responsible for any outcomes from the use of this information.
