FAQs:
Teeth Bleaching, Sensitivity,
Cost and Expected Results
Your Lincoln, NE Dentist Me Explains
Teeth bleaching can come with many questions. We hope to address those concerns and many others with some of our most frequently asked questions. If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us, or schedule an appointment for a cosmetic evaluation!
Read on to find out if bleaching is the right teeth whitening option for you.
Will professional teeth bleaching damage my teeth or gums?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
No. Our customized trays protect your gums from the bleach solution, and our whitening system lifts stains from teeth and should not harm them in any way.
How long does teeth bleaching take?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
Before any in-office bleaching procedure is executed or an at-home whitening kit is provided, an initial evaluation of your teeth is performed by one of our dentists. This visit typically lasts 30-60 minutes, and we will take impressions (molds) for your custom trays at this appointment. Once we have them, you are ready to whiten! The in-office whitening treatment will take 45-60 minutes depending on your teeth and the amount of staining. At-home bleaching usually takes about 1-2 weeks to see results.
How often should I whiten my teeth with strips?
It is recommended to put them on twice a day for 10-14 days. Your teeth should begin to look whiter within a few days of using the strips, and the results should last at least four months. Strips that are not made custom for your teeth tend to create more sensitivity.
Can I still have bleaching done even if I haven’t been to the dentist in a long time?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
We understand how quickly time can get away from you and before you know it, it’s been years since you have visited a dentist. Because we perform an initial exam before the whitening process begins, we welcome all patients to inquire about our whitening services no matter how long it has been! We will evaluate your teeth specifically to determine if you are a good candidate for teeth bleaching. After this, we will let you choose the option that works well for you and your unique smile.
May I have my teeth bleached on a regular basis?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
Teeth bleaching is a non-invasive procedure that should not cause harm to your gums or teeth. In-office bleaching typically does not need to be done more than every two years depending on other factors such as eating foods or drinks that cause them to stain more quickly, or smoking. At-home bleaching can be done on a regular basis until you reach your desired whiteness, then updated every few months or as you notice a change in color.
How do I keep my teeth looking white?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
Avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks as well as tobacco use. Avoiding these can help your results last longer. Also, using your in-home bleaching kit every 4-6 months can help you keep your smile bright white and combat stains as you acquire them.
When can I get in for an appointment?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
Northstar Dental is a part of Nebraska Family Dentistry which has other Dental clinic locations in Lincoln to serve you better. You can schedule an appointment at whichever dental clinic location is most convenient for you. Our Northstar location offers late evening hours on certain days, and our SouthPointe location has some Saturday appointments available.
How can I pay for teeth bleaching?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
We often offer specials for both at-home and in-office teeth bleaching. Call us today to see when our next promotion will run and to find out which option is right for you. We accept almost all major credit cards, cash, and checks. We also offer convenient payment options to help with the cost of teeth bleaching.
Can teeth bleaching be purchased as a gift for someone?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
Yes! Just let us know and we would be happy to put together something special for you to give to a friend or family member.
How old do I have to be to whiten my teeth?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
The minimum age for teeth whitening is 15 years old.
What if I have crowns or veneers?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
Porcelain crowns and veneers do not bleach, but we can certainly help you to whiten the teeth surrounding your crowns or veneers.
Are an exam and x-rays necessary for teeth bleaching?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
Having both an exam and x-rays is the only way for us to determine if you are a proper candidate for teeth bleaching. Not every patient is a candidate, and we want you to get the most out of your time and money by selecting the treatment option that suits you. A short consultation is all that is needed if you have had an exam and x-rays at one of our five offices within the past six months.
If you have visited another office in the last six months and have had an exam and x-rays completed, we will evaluate your x-rays and smile to determine whether you are a candidate for teeth whitening or another cosmetic dentistry solution. An exam and x-rays will need to be completed if you have not seen a dentist in the last six months for a check-up and x-rays. Many insurance plans will cover an exam and x-rays. For patients without dental insurance, please check out Lincoln Dental Plans.
What dental insurance do you accept?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
We accept all insurances and will submit to your plan for you. To learn more about how dental insurance works and what insurance companies we are in-network with, please click here. Because teeth bleaching is an elective cosmetic procedure, it is important for you to contact your insurance company regarding your specific insurance plan to determine if they will help cover partial cost of teeth bleaching.
What if my gums bleed, can I receive teeth whitening?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
Your gums should never bleed. If we notice bleeding gums at your initial exam, we will help you determine whether it’s gingivitis or periodontal disease. We will make sure you receive the treatment needed for the condition before proceeding with teeth bleaching. Patients with mild to moderate gingivitis can usually still pursue bleaching. However, periodontal disease must be treated before bleaching treatments can be performed.
Can I do teeth whitening if my teeth are extremely sensitive?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
The patented Opalescence whitening system we use contains ingredients to prevent sensitivity. Whether it is at home or in-office whitening, custom made trays are used to decrease or prevent sensitivity. For in-office bleaching, we’ll apply a preventative treatment to treat any possible sensitivity. At your initial exam, we will diagnose and treat any cavities and periodontal disease to help prevent sensitivity during teeth bleaching.
Does professional teeth whitening hurt?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
Some short term sensitivity can happen but it usually only lasts for a few hours after treatment. Opalescence system prevents sensitivity that is common among other teeth whitening systems.
Do professional teeth whitening hurt?
Your Lincoln dentist answers…
Some short term sensitivity can happen but it usually only lasts for a few hours after treatment. Opalescence system prevents sensitivity that is common among other teeth whitening systems.
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South Lincoln Family Dentistry – South Lincoln
Northeast Lincoln Family Dentistry– Northeast Lincoln
Preserve Family Dentistry – East Lincoln
Coddington Dental – West Lincoln
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SouthPointe Dental – Southwest Lincoln
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