How Teeth Whitening At The Dentist Works...And Is It Worth It? Orthodontist Reacts!

The Bentist
10 Aug 202110:21
EducationalLearning
32 Likes 10 Comments

TLDRIn this engaging YouTube video, the host delves into the process of professional teeth whitening, discussing its cost-effectiveness and the steps involved, from consultation to post-treatment care. They highlight the importance of precautions such as applying vitamin E to lips and using retractors to keep the mouth dry. The video also addresses common misconceptions about the use of blue light in whitening treatments and concludes with the host's personal opinion that professional whitening may not be worth the expense, suggesting over-the-counter alternatives for those seeking a more budget-friendly option.

Takeaways
  • 😁 The video discusses the process of professional teeth whitening, including the steps taken during a dental appointment.
  • πŸ“ A consultation is typically required before professional teeth whitening to discuss expectations and potential sensitivities.
  • πŸ’Š Vitamin E is applied to lips as a protective measure to prevent dehydration during the whitening treatment.
  • πŸ”§ A retractor is used to keep the mouth open and to protect the cheeks and gums from the whitening gel.
  • 🦷 Cotton rolls and gauze are used to keep the mouth dry and to prevent saliva from interfering with the whitening process.
  • πŸ›‘οΈ A liquid dam is placed on gums to protect them from the whitening gel, which can cause burns if it comes into contact with the gingiva.
  • πŸ’‘ The video mentions the use of a high-intensity blue light during the whitening process, although its effectiveness is questioned.
  • πŸ•’ The whitening process usually involves multiple 15-minute sessions with the blue light.
  • ⚠️ Sensitivity is common after whitening, especially in the teeth, and should be reported if felt in the gums.
  • 🍡 Post-whitening, it's advised to avoid dark-colored foods and liquids for 24 hours to prevent re-staining.
  • πŸ’° The video suggests that professional teeth whitening may not be worth the cost, as over-the-counter products can achieve similar results for less money.
Q & A
  • What is the first step in the professional teeth whitening process?

    -The first step is usually a consultation appointment where the dentist discusses the expected shade improvement and checks for any contraindications.

  • Why is vitamin E applied to the lips before the whitening treatment?

    -Vitamin E is applied as a protective measure to prevent the lips from cracking and becoming dehydrated during the treatment.

  • What is the purpose of using a retractor during teeth whitening?

    -A retractor is used to keep the mouth open and to protect the lips and cheeks from the whitening gel, ensuring it stays in contact with the teeth.

  • Why is it important to keep the mouth dry during the whitening process?

    -Keeping the mouth dry is crucial because saliva can mix with the hydrogen peroxide gel, reducing its effectiveness and potentially causing discomfort or harm.

  • What is the role of the liquid dam in teeth whitening?

    -The liquid dam acts as a rubber shield to protect the gums from the whitening gel, preventing burns and irritation.

  • How does the blue light enhance the teeth whitening process?

    -The blue light is believed to activate the hydrogen peroxide, making it more potent and allowing it to penetrate the teeth better for whitening.

  • What should a patient expect in terms of sensitivity after professional teeth whitening?

    -Patients may experience sensitivity in their teeth, especially the front ones, and should report any gum sensitivity to the dentist immediately.

  • Why should a patient avoid dark-colored foods and beverages after teeth whitening?

    -For 24 hours after whitening, it's advised to avoid dark-colored foods and drinks to prevent them from staining the teeth while they are still remineralizing.

  • What is the opinion of the speaker regarding the cost-effectiveness of professional teeth whitening?

    -The speaker does not believe professional teeth whitening is worth the cost, suggesting that over-the-counter whitening strips can achieve similar results at a fraction of the price.

  • What alternative does the speaker recommend for those seeking a cost-effective whitening solution?

    -The speaker recommends using over-the-counter whitening strips, such as a 50-dollar box, which can provide similar results to professional whitening over the course of a week.

  • What is the speaker's stance on offering professional teeth whitening in their office?

    -The speaker does not offer professional teeth whitening in their office, instead, they provide patients with over-the-counter whitening products that are just as effective.

Outlines
00:00
🦷 Professional Teeth Whitening Process

This paragraph introduces the video's focus on professional teeth whitening, including consultation and the actual whitening treatment. It discusses the importance of a consultation to set expectations and to determine the feasibility of the desired whiteness level. The script also covers the preparatory steps for the whitening session, such as applying vitamin E to lips, using a retractor, placing cotton rolls and gauze to keep the mouth dry, and the application of a liquid dam to protect the gums. The paragraph emphasizes the strength of the whitening agent and the need for safety precautions to prevent damage to the gums and other soft tissues.

05:01
πŸ’‘ The Role of Blue Light in Teeth Whitening

This paragraph delves into the use of blue light during professional teeth whitening, questioning its effectiveness and suggesting that it might be more for show than actual benefit. It explains the science behind the blue light's activation of hydrogen peroxide for stronger whitening, but also presents skepticism about its necessity, especially in home whitening kits. The video script describes the procedure of applying the whitening solution and using the blue light for multiple 15-minute sessions. It also addresses potential sensitivity issues that may arise during and after the treatment, offering advice on post-whitening care, such as avoiding dark-colored foods and beverages for 24 hours and using re-mineralizing gels or sensitive toothpaste to manage sensitivity.

10:02
πŸ€” Evaluating the Worth of Professional Teeth Whitening

In this final paragraph, the speaker shares a personal opinion on the value of professional teeth whitening services. They argue that the high cost of professional whitening may not be justified, as similar results can be achieved with over-the-counter whitening strips. The speaker suggests that unless convenience and speed are paramount, investing in professional whitening might not be worth it. They also mention that their dental office does not offer professional whitening services, instead recommending a store-bought product that they believe is just as effective. The paragraph concludes with a call to action for viewers to share their thoughts on the topic and a thank you for their support.

Mindmap
Keywords
πŸ’‘Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening refers to the process of removing stains and discoloration from the teeth to achieve a brighter and more aesthetically pleasing smile. In the video, the main theme revolves around professional teeth whitening, which is a dental procedure performed by a dentist to whiten teeth significantly. The script discusses the process, cost, and effectiveness of professional teeth whitening compared to at-home alternatives.
πŸ’‘Dentist
A dentist is a professional who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity. In the context of the video, the dentist plays a crucial role in the professional teeth whitening process, providing consultation, application of whitening agents, and use of specialized equipment to achieve the desired results.
πŸ’‘Consultation Appointment
A consultation appointment is an initial meeting with a professional, such as a dentist, to discuss a patient's needs and expectations. In the script, it is mentioned that before undergoing professional teeth whitening, a consultation is necessary to discuss the expected outcome, potential sensitivities, and to ensure the patient is a suitable candidate for the procedure.
πŸ’‘Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin known for its antioxidant properties and is often used in skincare and lip care products. In the video script, vitamin E is applied to the lips before the whitening procedure as a protective measure to prevent cracking and dehydration during the treatment.
πŸ’‘Retractor
A retractor in dental procedures is a device used to hold back the cheeks and other soft tissues to provide clear access to the teeth. The script describes the use of a retractor during the whitening process to keep the mouth open and to protect the tissues from the whitening gel.
πŸ’‘Cotton Rolls and Gauze
Cotton rolls and gauze are used in dental procedures to absorb saliva and keep the treatment area dry. The script mentions that cotton rolls and gauze are inserted into the mouth to cover salivary glands, preventing saliva from interfering with the whitening gel and ensuring a more effective whitening experience.
πŸ’‘Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound commonly used for its bleaching properties and as a disinfectant. In the context of teeth whitening, the script explains that hydrogen peroxide is a key ingredient in the whitening gel, which is activated by a blue light to penetrate and whiten the teeth more effectively.
πŸ’‘Blue Light
The blue light mentioned in the script refers to a high-intensity light source used in professional teeth whitening to activate the hydrogen peroxide in the whitening gel. While the video suggests that the blue light may not be entirely necessary for the whitening process, it is used to enhance the perception of a professional treatment.
πŸ’‘Sensitivity
Sensitivity in the context of teeth whitening refers to the discomfort or pain that may occur after the procedure due to the teeth's exposure. The script highlights that sensitivity is common, especially in the front teeth, and advises viewers to report any gum sensitivity to the dentist immediately to prevent burns or damage.
πŸ’‘Re-mineralizing Gel
A re-mineralizing gel is a dental product designed to help restore minerals to the teeth, often used after whitening procedures to reduce sensitivity. The script suggests using a re-mineralizing gel or sensitive toothpaste to plug the holes in the teeth caused by the bleaching process, thereby reducing sensitivity.
πŸ’‘Take-Home Whitening Gels
Take-home whitening gels are products provided for patients to continue the whitening process or for touch-ups after professional treatments. The script mentions that some dental offices may offer these gels for maintenance, along with sensitivity relief gels for patients who are prone to sensitivity after whitening.
πŸ’‘Cost-effectiveness
Cost-effectiveness in the video refers to the comparison between the high cost of professional teeth whitening and the lower cost of at-home whitening kits. The script argues that at-home whitening strips can achieve similar results to professional treatments at a fraction of the cost, making the professional service less cost-effective for those concerned with saving money.
Highlights

Introduction to a new YouTube video on professional teeth whitening.

The presenter considers creating a separate reaction channel for non-dental content.

Explanation of the process of professional teeth whitening by a dentist.

The necessity of a consultation before professional teeth whitening.

Potential pain for those with super sensitive teeth during the whitening process.

Limitations on how many shades teeth can whiten in one appointment.

Application of vitamin E to lips as a protective measure.

Use of a retractor and cotton rolls to keep the mouth dry during treatment.

Importance of protecting salivary glands from the whitening gel.

The application of a liquid dam to protect gums from the whitening gel.

Caution against touching the whitening solution with bare hands.

The role of a high-intensity blue light in activating the whitening agent.

The cost-effectiveness of professional teeth whitening compared to at-home kits.

Potential sensitivity issues after whitening and the use of re-mineralizing gels.

Advice on avoiding dark-colored foods and beverages after whitening.

Availability of take-home whitening gels and sensitivity relief gels post-treatment.

Personal opinion on the value of professional teeth whitening.

Recommendation of at-home whitening strips as a cost-effective alternative.

Disclosure of not offering professional teeth whitening in the presenter's office.

End of video with a call to action for viewer engagement.

Transcripts
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