When a patient is considering having his or her teeth whitened here in my office, I'm often asked some important questions.
While the teeth whitening process is simple and straightforward, a patient's questions concerning the treatment are valid and my answers are always reassuring.
Here are some of those frequently asked questions (FAQs) about teeth whitening:
1. Does insurance cover the cost of teeth whitening?
No. Since teeth whitening is an elective, cosmetic procedure insurance companies generally do not cover the cost of the treatment. However, if price is a concern for you, please talk to Pearl about payment options.
2. How long will my teeth stay visibly white?
Teeth whitening is not permanent. People who expose their teeth to foods and beverages that cause staining may see the whiteness start to fade in as little as one month. Those who avoid foods and beverages that stain may be able to wait one year or longer before another whitening treatment or touch-up is needed.
3. Do teeth whiteners damage tooth enamel?
Studies of teeth whitening products using 10% carbamide peroxide showed little to no effect on the hardness or mineral content of a tooth's enamel surface.
4. Can I have teeth whitening even if I've had other dental restoration work done?
Over 10 years of clinical use of teeth whitening products containing 10% carbamide peroxide have not shown any damage to existing fillings. The issue is not “damage” to existing restorations; rather, keep in
mind that existing restorations such as tooth-colored fillings, crowns, bonding, veneers, and bridges do not lighten. This means that any pre-existing dental work may need to be replaced to match the new tooth shade achieved in the natural teeth, should a bleaching process proceed.
5. Will teeth whitening damage the nerves in my teeth?
No.
There's no evidence that suggests teeth whitening has a harmful effect on the health of a tooth's nerve. One study reported that at both a 4.5- and 7-year follow up, no individual who used a teeth whitening system needed a root canal procedure on any teeth that had been whitened.
So there you have it. These important questions have been answered. Are you ready to come in for a teeth whitening consultation?
Visit our 1-Click Appointment Request and schedule your visit today!
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