So you’re thinking of having your teeth whitened. Where do you begin? You should start with a dental checkup. This way, your cosmetic dentist can be aware of any potential issues and deal with them accordingly. Some stains may not be able to be removed from the whitening procedure, so it’s best to get a diagnosis beforehand. Always opt for a pre-treatment cleaning. This can remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and greatly improve the results. If you have sensitive teeth, it’s a good idea to use a desensitizing toothpaste for at least two weeks before the procedure. This toothpaste contains ingredients that can block the transmission of pain sensation to the tooth. Talk to your dentist about shade goals using a shade guide. This way you both are on the same page of how extensive the procedure should be.