Teeth whitening procedures can help improve the appearance of your smile by removing stains and discolouration from your teeth. If you're considering going for a teeth whitening treatment, you must understand what you can expect during the process. Here's an overview of what to expect when you go for a teeth whitening treatment.

Consultation 

Before undergoing a teeth whitening treatment, you'll likely have a consultation with a dental professional to assess the condition of your teeth and gums and determine if you're a good candidate for the procedure. They'll also discuss your treatment goals and explain your options.

During the consultation, it's essential to be open and honest about any dental concerns you may have and any medications you're taking, as these can affect the success of the treatment. Your dental professional will also examine your teeth to determine the cause of discolouration and the most appropriate treatment option.

Preparation 

Depending on the treatment type, your dental professional may take impressions of your teeth to create custom-fitted trays or apply a protective barrier to your gums to prevent irritation. Custom-fitted trays are made to fit your teeth exactly and are typically used for at-home treatments. The trays help ensure that the whitening agent is applied evenly to your teeth and prevents the product from contacting your gums, which can irritate them.

Application of the whitening agent 

The actual teeth whitening process involves applying a whitening agent to your teeth. This can be done in the dental office or at home using a kit provided by your dental professional.

In-office treatments typically use a stronger concentration of the whitening agent and may require a couple of visits to achieve the desired results. At-home kits usually have a lower concentration of the whitening agent and require longer treatment times.

During an in-office treatment, your dental professional will apply the whitening agent to your teeth and use a particular light or laser to activate the agent and speed up the whitening process. At-home kits typically come with trays that you fill with the whitening agent and wear for a specified time each day. The length of treatment and number of sessions required will depend on the severity of the discolouration and your desired level of whiteness.

Post-treatment care 

Finally, after your teeth whitening treatment, you'll need to take certain precautions to protect your newly whitened teeth. This may include avoiding certain foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, and brushing your teeth regularly.

Your dental professional will provide specific instructions on how to care for your teeth following the treatment. It's essential to follow these instructions carefully to maintain the treatment results and prevent any sensitivity or irritation.

It's also a good idea to avoid smoking and consuming dark-coloured foods and drinks for at least the first 48 hours after the treatment to prevent staining.