Can I Get Teeth Whitening If I Have Cavities? Expert Advice from Your Cosmetic Dentist
March 31, 2023 8:35 amQuick Answer: No, you should not get teeth whitening if you have untreated cavities. Cavities must be fixed first to prevent pain, sensitivity, and potential tooth damage during the whitening process.
If you’re searching for “teeth whitening near me” but recently discovered you have cavities, you’re probably wondering if you can still achieve that bright, white smile you’ve been dreaming of. As your trusted cosmetic dentist in Fort Smith, River City Dental frequently addresses this common concern about professional teeth whitening and cavity treatment.
Why Cavities Must Be Treated Before Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening involves powerful bleaching agents that can penetrate tooth enamel to remove deep stains. However, when you have cavities, these whitening chemicals can cause:
- Severe tooth pain – Whitening gel can reach the tooth’s nerve through cavity openings
- Increased sensitivity – Already compromised teeth become extremely sensitive to whitening agents
- Potential tooth damage – Chemical exposure to inner tooth structures can cause irreversible harm
- Uneven whitening results – Decayed areas may not respond properly to treatment
As your cosmetic dentist, we always prioritize your oral health before cosmetic treatments. This approach ensures safe, effective teeth whitening results that last.
The Right Treatment Sequence for Optimal Results
Step 1: Cavity Treatment
Our cosmetic dentist team will first address your cavities using:
- Tooth-colored fillings – Composite resin fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth
- Dental crowns – For larger cavities requiring full tooth coverage
- Advanced restoration techniques – Ensuring both function and aesthetics
Step 2: Professional Teeth Whitening
Once your cavities are treated, we can proceed with professional teeth whitening for optimal results.
Important Considerations About Dental Restorations and Whitening
When planning your teeth whitening treatment, it’s crucial to understand that:
- Fillings don’t whiten – Existing tooth-colored fillings won’t change color during whitening
- Crown color remains constant – Dental crowns maintain their original shade
- Strategic color matching – We can make new restorations lighter than your current teeth, then whiten your natural teeth to match
- Future maintenance – You may need whitening touch-ups or restoration replacement over time
Professional Teeth Whitening vs. Over-the-Counter Options
When searching for “whitening near me,” you’ll find many options, but professional treatment from a qualified cosmetic dentist offers superior advantages:
ZOOM! Professional Teeth Whitening Benefits:
- Faster results – Typically completed in under one hour
- Dramatic whitening – Up to 8 shades lighter in a single session
- Safe application – Professional-grade materials used safely
- Long-lasting results – Results can last 12-24 months with proper care
- Customized treatment – Tailored to your specific needs and goals
Why Professional Whitening Beats Store-Bought Products:
- Stronger, more effective whitening agents
- Professional supervision ensures safety
- Customized treatment plans
- Better, longer-lasting results
- Reduced risk of sensitivity when done properly
Maintaining Your Whitening Results
After your professional teeth whitening treatment, follow these guidelines to maintain your bright smile:
- Avoid staining foods and drinks for 48 hours post-treatment
- Practice excellent oral hygiene – brush twice daily, floss regularly
- Use whitening toothpaste to help maintain results
- Schedule regular cleanings every 6 months
- Consider touch-up treatments as recommended by your cosmetic dentist
Comprehensive Cosmetic Dentistry Services in Fort Smith
As your full-service cosmetic dentist in Fort Smith, River City Dental offers complete smile transformation services:
- Professional teeth whitening (ZOOM! and take-home options)
- Porcelain veneers for complete smile makeovers
- Tooth-colored fillings and restorations
- Dental crowns and bridges
- Invisalign clear aligners
- Complete smile design consultations
Ready for Professional Teeth Whitening in Fort Smith?
Don’t let cavities delay your dream smile! Contact River City Dental today to schedule your comprehensive examination. We’ll create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your cavities first, then delivers the brilliant teeth whitening results you’ve been searching for.
As Fort Smith’s trusted cosmetic dentist, we’re committed to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile through safe, effective treatments. Call us today to book your consultation and take the first step toward your brightest smile!
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening and Cavities
Q: How long after cavity treatment can I get teeth whitening?
A: You can typically get teeth whitening immediately after your cavities are filled, as long as there’s no post-treatment sensitivity.
Q: Will whitening make my cavities more visible?
A: Untreated cavities may become more noticeable after whitening, which is another reason to address them first with your cosmetic dentist.
Q: Can I use whitening toothpaste if I have cavities?
A: It’s best to avoid whitening products until your cavities are treated to prevent increased sensitivity and potential damage.
