Some of the Best Teeth Whitening Procedures

About Teeth Whitening Procedures

One of the most widely requested cosmetic dentistry procedures is teeth whitening. Because a variety of factors can staining the teeth, many patients seek the help of a cosmetic dentist or use a teeth whitening kit to obtain the beautiful, radiant smiles they desire. Yellowed or stained teeth can often cause patients to become self-conscious of their smiles. Teeth can lose their luster from several reasons, including aging, genetics, eating habits, smoking and trauma.

There are three main types of teeth whitening treatments:

These treatments vary in price, concentration of peroxide and application time. In-office whitening can cost about $650 a visit, but offers the most dramatic results because of the high concentration of peroxide. Take-home kits and over-the-counter kits give patients the luxury of administering the treatment in the privacy of their homes, but may require longer application periods for patients to achieve whiter teeth. The teeth whitening cost of take-home kits and over-the-counter kits can vary from $20 to $400.

Other Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

In addition to teeth whitening, many patients wish to brighten their smiles with other cosmetic dentistry procedures. Many cosmetic dentists recommend patients receive porcelain veneers to treat chipped, dull or uneven teeth. Porcelain veneers are shells that are placed over the teeth to change the shape of the tooth or treat other cosmetic dentistry concerns. In many instances, cosmetic dentists create porcelain veneers within their office to give patients personalized treatment. Patients who struggle with severe tooth discoloration may opt to receive porcelain veneers to dramatically brighten their teeth instead of several teeth whitening treatments. However, the cost of porcelain veneers is much higher than teeth whitening; it can range from $250 to $1500 per tooth.

Similar to porcelain veneers, minimal and "no-prep" veneers can treat patients with chipped or misshapen teeth. Made from ceramic, minimal and "no-prep" veneers are less invasive than traditional forms of veneers. One of the most widely requested "no-prep" veneers is Lumineers, which is bonded to the front surface of the tooth. Often called "instant orthodontics," veneers can give patients straighter teeth and beautiful, Hollywood smiles in less time than traditional orthodontic methods.

Patients with large gaps or crooked teeth who do not wish to change the shape or size of their teeth may undergo orthodontic procedures. One of the most common orthodontic procedures is dental braces, which gradually align teeth over time. With the latest advancements in cosmetic dentistry technology, patients can receive natural-colored dental braces, as well as wear their braces for less periods of time. Another popular orthodontic technology is Invisalign teeth aligners, a set of clear, removable retainers that slowly adjust teeth over time. The cost of Invisalign is similar to dental braces, ranging from $3,000 to $5,000.

Many patients who are uncomfortable with their teeth seek the help of a highly skilled cosmetic dentist to receive a combination of cosmetic dentistry procedures, also known as a smile makeover, to give them the smiles they desire. Many smile makeovers begin with porcelain veneers to give patients the right size and shape of teeth that are proportionate with the rest of their face. Cosmetic dentists also correct chipped teeth or large gaps to create a stunning smile. Smile makeovers are usually completed with teeth whitening to remove dullness and stains and reveal whiter, healthier teeth. The cost of smile makeovers is dependent upon the amount of procedures the patient receives, as well as the cosmetic dentist's personal fees.

Patients who wish to receive teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry procedures are encouraged to visit Consumer Guide to Dentistry to learn more about dentistry procedures, technologies and techniques.