Are you ready to get a healthier, brighter, traffic-stopping smile in 2023? If so, then you may be considering teeth whitening with our dentist in Naperville, IL. But, before you schedule a cosmetic dentistry appointment, there are a few things you need to know before getting your teeth whitened.
Dr. Thomas F. Brown and his team are trusted dental professionals serving patients in Naperville, IL, and the surrounding areas. Schedule new patient appointments for you and your loved ones now by calling (630) 296-9916 or by submitting a request online here.
Meanwhile, let’s talk about what you should do before getting your teeth whitened. Preparing for teeth whitening treatments can enhance your results for years of luminous brilliance.
1. Schedule a Routine Checkup
The American Dental Association recommends visiting a dentist at least once a year for routine checkups and preventive cleanings. These appointments keep our teeth and gums healthy all year round.
But, they are also a fantastic way to prepare for teeth whitening, too.
Our Naperville dentist can pinpoint issues that may worsen after teeth whitening, like tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. By addressing these issues at a routine checkup, patients can give themselves a healthy foundation from which to create their perfect smiles.
2. Address Tooth Sensitivity Beforehand
Tooth sensitivity is often the result of thinning or worn tooth enamel. Unfortunately, whitening treatments can worsen sensitivity.
Therefore, it is important to address tooth sensitivity before getting your teeth whitened. We recommend using remineralizing toothpaste and mouthwash to help rebuild weak enamel. Look for products that contain fluoride or nano-hydroxyapatite for optimal remineralization.
3. Get a Professional Dental Cleaning Before Getting Your Teeth Whitened
Do you ever run your tongue across your teeth and feel a thin layer of grime on them? That grimy layer is called plaque, and it is largely responsible for cavities and gum disease.
Not only is plaque harmful to our teeth, but it also prevents teeth whiteners from effectively removing dental stains. This means that leaving plaque on the teeth during whitening treatments may produce underwhelming or splotchy results.
To get optimal results, patients may need more than regular brushing and flossing to remove dental plaque. A professional dental cleaning with our hygienists allows patients to eliminate stubborn plaque, even below the gum line.
As a result, a professional dental cleaning is one of the first things you should do before getting your teeth whitened.
4. Consult a Shade Guide
An extremely white smile may look unnatural. That’s why we recommend using a shade guide to help you choose a hue that fits your overall aesthetic.
But, even using a shade guide can be tricky.
If you’re not sure how to pick your perfect shade, then use the whites of your eyes as a reference. Typically, our eyes are brighter than our teeth without looking unnaturally white. So, when in doubt, just look at your eyes!
Ready to get your teeth whitened? We can help!
If you want to get your teeth whitened, then it’s time to start preparing now. Let Dr. Brown and his team help you get started. Simply call (630) 296-9916 or message us here to request your appointment in Naperville, IL.