Questions about Britesmile
"How white will my teeth get?"
Clinical studies show that Britesmile treatments average about nine shades lighter. Results vary, of course, because every one's teeth respond differently. In most cases, results are dramatic. The goal is to achieve your own optimal, natural whiteness. The dentist reviews the result that can be expected. Severely discolored teeth can be treated and get successful results. But, more difficult cases sometimes call for lengthier treatment than the standard one-hour session.
How long will it last?
Long-term results depend mostly on the patient. Tobacco, coffee, tea, dark soft drinks and lax attention to dental care can work against the results. Regular professional care will help maintain a new "Britesmile" for up to two years, or more. Some people prefer to do Britesmile whitening treatment more often.
"Are take-home bleaching trays important?"
Take-home bleaching trays-used one hour or so a week-further lighten and maintain Britesmile results. The lighter shade is preserved since, over time, the same factors-cigarettes, coffee, red wine, and normal wear and tear can change the color of smiles.
"How does it work?"
We first examine your teeth and gums for good oral health. Next, as you relax in the chair, we apply whitening gel and place the Britesmile special light over your teeth to activate the gel. As you relax, listen to music, nap or watch a DVD movie, your teeth will lighten to their optimal, natural whiteness-in about one hour.
"Is it safe?"
Yes. The Britesmile procedure does not soften enamel or existing fillings. For more than 100 years, dentists safely used hydrogen peroxide, the main ingredient in the whitening gel. The dental community considers this material an effective whitening ingredient. The percentage of hydrogen peroxide used in Britesmile's special gel is 15 percent, much lower than the higher 22 to 35 percent in other in-office whitening gels.
"Will it hurt?"
A small percentage of patients may feel a minor, dull "ache" following the procedure. Taking some analgesic almost always eliminates the feeling. It's best to avoid hot or cold drinks for the first 24 hours if there is any sensitivity.
"Will my dental insurance cover this procedure?"
As with most cosmetic dental treatment, insurance will not cover the cost.
"Is this procedure for everyone?"
Just about every person seeking a lighter smile can benefit from Britesmile, including those with severe coffee, food, tobacco or tetracycline stains. An exam before the procedure will determine promising candidates for whitening.
People with a history of TMJ problems, extreme sensitivity to hot and cold food or drinks, and those with many fracture lines in teeth may not be candidates.
"Will the procedure whiten existing crowns, veneers, bondings?"
The Britesmile treatment successfully removes stains from caps, veneers or bonded teeth. But a whitening treatment in general cannot change the color of crowns, veneers or bondings. A consultation with a dentist will help determine what to expect.
"Can I have this done if I am pregnant?"
While there are no known constraints for women who are pregnant, some might experience gum sensitivity. Pregnant women might wish to delay the procedure until after pregnancy.
"How can I maintain my new whiter teeth?"
Brush twice daily or after each meal. Floss daily. Use a whitening toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush.
Use take-home bleaching trays one hour a week, or as needed, to maintain the lighter color.
Visit your dentist for regular hygiene visits and check-ups at least every six months.
Our doctors and our experienced staff perform general and cosmetic dentistry including One-Hour Whitening, Porcelain Veneers, Porcelain Crowns, White Fillings, Bonding, Same Day Crowns and Veneers, Gum Reshaping, and Invisalign, for their patients in Washington, District of Columbia (DC), Maryland, Northern Virginia, around the country and around the world.
If you are considering cosmetic dentistry in the Washington, DC area, please call or e-mail us today to schedule your initial consultation.
Washington Center for Dentistry
1430 K Street NW, Eighth Floor
Washington D.C., 20005
(202) 223-6630
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