How much does teeth whitening at the dentist cost? Pre- and post-treatment dental care
If we want to achieve the effect of white and shiny teeth, brushing alone and using hygiene products such as whitening toothpastes or mouthwashes may not be enough. Effective teeth whitening is performed at a dental office. What whitening methods are available? How should we prepare for these treatments? And how should we take care of our teeth after whitening? You will find the answers below.
Contraindications to teeth whitening at the dental office – who should avoid it?
Teeth whitening should be avoided if there are any medical contraindications, including:
- Pregnancy
- Epilepsy
- Diabetes
- Tooth decay
- Periodontitis
- Gum diseases
- Parkinson’s disease
- Cancer
- Tooth sensitivity
- Oral diseases
- Advanced bruxism
- Exposed tooth necks
- Oral inflammations
- General physical weakness
- Use of certain medications
- Allergies to whitening substances
Pre-whitening dental treatments – teeth must be healthy to achieve a white smile
Teeth whitening treatments are not performed immediately. A consultation with a specialist is required to assess oral health and suggest the best whitening approach. Keep in mind that traditional whitening methods cannot lighten dead teeth, crowns, bridges, or implants.
Tooth decay and cavities must be treated before whitening.
READ MORE: WHITE DIET
Hygiene treatments before whitening – is scaling and sandblasting required?
Thorough cleaning is also necessary to remove tartar and surface stains. Popular hygiene procedures include:
- Scaling – removing tartar using hand tools or ultrasound
- Air polishing – removing stains and enamel irregularities
- Fluoride varnishing – strengthening enamel and reducing sensitivity
Teeth whitening methods offered by the dentist
- Overlay whitening
- Laser or lamp whitening
- Whitening with veneers
Preparing for tray-based teeth whitening – how long does it take and how to prepare?
Tray-based teeth whitening takes about 2 to 4 weeks, with the majority done at home. Preparation includes:
- Treating decay and filling cavities
- Scaling, air polishing, and fluoride varnishing
- Creating dental impressions to fabricate whitening trays
- Receiving trays and specialized whitening gel
- Following a white diet prior to starting the treatment
How does tray-based teeth whitening work?
This method involves using custom whitening trays. The first visit includes making an impression of your teeth. Based on this, the dentist prepares personalized trays. The patient then uses them daily at home, along with a special whitening gel.
Only people with healthy teeth qualify for this method. Decay or cavities must be treated beforehand to avoid damage to the dentin. This method is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Tartar should be removed to ensure the trays fit accurately.
Preparing for laser or lamp whitening – necessary steps before the procedure
Laser teeth whitening is the most popular option. It is performed during a single visit. Pre-treatment includes cavity treatment and hygiene procedures to reduce sensitivity. Fluoride varnishing follows. Once teeth are ready, the whitening session begins. It’s important to follow a white diet and dentist’s recommendations after the procedure.
How does laser or lamp whitening work and when are the results visible?
The procedure starts by placing a mouth retractor and applying petroleum jelly to the gums to protect them. A whitening gel is applied to the teeth. A lamp is positioned at a distance of about 30 cm and used for 20 to 40 minutes. Afterward, the gel and gum protection are removed, and the mouth is rinsed.
Before-and-after photos can help evaluate the whitening result. Sometimes multiple sessions are needed. Results may be visible immediately or after a few weeks, depending on the method used.
Preparing for veneer-based whitening
Veneers are bonded permanently to the front of the teeth. Preparation includes:
- Treating teeth and gums
- Taking dental X-rays
- Placing temporary veneers
- Taking impressions of both dental arches
- Shaping the teeth under local anesthesia
If all steps are successful, permanent veneers are applied. Proper diagnostics and orthodontic assessment are essential. Once applied, veneers provide an instant whitening effect.
Post-treatment recommendations after professional teeth whitening
Whitening effects last around 3 years, depending on the method used and post-treatment care. Following a white diet and avoiding staining drinks (e.g., coffee or red wine) can help prolong the result. Whitening toothpaste may also help maintain the effect. Whitening can be repeated, but not too often – frequent treatments may weaken enamel and cause sensitivity. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing should be part of your daily routine, of course.
The cost of professional teeth whitening – how much does it cost at the dentist?
The cost of teeth whitening at the dentist depends on the region and chosen method. Tray whitening with gel costs between 700 and 1000 PLN for both arches. Beyond whitening method costs range from 1000 to 1200 PLN.
