The holiday season is here, which means you’re spending more time with family, getting more pictures taken, and hanging out at all your holiday parties with co-workers and friends. For many people, it’s also the ideal time to get teeth whitening so you have a smile that is just as bright and shiny as your holiday lights. If you have thought about teeth whitening, but haven’t done it because you still have some questions, here are answers to some of the most common ones.
Q: Why Should I Get Teeth Whitening from a Dentist?
A: Teeth whitening from your dentist’s office in Meridian has many advantages, but at the top of that list is getting better, longer-lasting results than you will find with over-the-counter products available at your local grocery store. A dentist uses professional-strength hydrogen peroxide gel, something you won’t get in the commercially available kits. Certainly those products can be tempting, but as is the case with many things, you get what you pay for, so going cheap on teeth whitening means getting a less-than-ideal result.
Q: How Long Will This Take?
A: For most people a professional teeth whitening can be done in a single office visit, and it’s quick enough that you can schedule it on your lunch break. Commercial teeth whitening kits from your grocery store can take several treatments lasting weeks, but achieving shades three or more shades lighter can be done in a single visit to your dentist.
Q: Is There Any Option for Whitening at Home?
A: If it’s too much trouble to get to the dentist’s office, or you simply prefer to do it on your own, your Meridian dentist can provide you with a professional-quality kit that you can use at home. These custom whitening trays will be specially designed for your teeth and gums, which is much better than a one-size-fits-all kit you could buy off the shelf.
Q: Is This Going to Hurt?
A: One of the most common reasons that people decide not to get teeth whitening is a fear that it will hurt your teeth. Some whitening gels and other products could cause irritation and pain to the gums or roots of teeth, especially if you are prone to sensitivity. In those cases it’s even more important that you get it done at the dentist’s office, since he or she can help control the treatment to try and minimize sensitivity and pain. Plus they have specialized equipment to prevent whitening gels from coming in contact with your gums and cheeks, further reducing the likelihood of pain.
Q: Is Whitening Covered By Insurance?
A: In most cases teeth whitening is considered a cosmetic procedure, which means your insurance won’t cover it. If you have special circumstances and think it might be covered, go to your dentist’s office for a consultation and they can provide advice on whether it might be an option. You can also call your insurance provider to get more information. If you want beautiful, bright, shiny white teeth for the holidays and a new you for 2017, come in to your Meridian dentist office today.
