Teeth Whitening
Have you tried countless over-the-counter whitening toothpastes and rinses only to find out that you’ve wasted your money? Professional teeth whitening is a great cosmetic dentistry service to remove stubborn tooth stains.
Teeth whitening at Washington Smiles is quick, easy, and painless. You’ll leave our office with a brand new, beautiful smile. In fact, our professional whitening may last three to five years!
? Why do teeth become stained and discolored?
There are many contributing factors to stained teeth. As we get older, minerals penetrate the tooth’s enamel, which causes discoloration. Factors that cause tooth discoloration and staining include:
- Age.
- Natural staining and discoloration that happens over time from foods and beverages.
- Tobacco use (cigars, pipes, smokeless tobacco, cigarettes, et cetera).
- Certain foods and beverages such as: red wine, dark colas, tea, coffee, et cetera.
- Certain medications (tetracycline and some antibiotics).
? How does teeth whitening work? How long does it take?
A bleaching gel (containing hydrogen and carbamide peroxide) is typically used to professionally whiten teeth. It gets applied directly to the tooth’s surface. This gel helps remove the stains and makes teeth appear whiter and brighter without harming the teeth at all.
The professional teeth whitening procedure can take anywhere between one to three hours, depending on which type of whitening chosen and how tough the stains are. At-home whitening procedures can also be used. Patients who choose this route usually see results within three to four days after the first use, with the final result taking approximately two weeks.
Washington Smiles offers both in-office whitening and take-home whitening options. You may need either one or the other method, or both, depending on certain factors, which our dentists can discuss with you.
Opalscence teeth whitening
Opalscence Boost teeth whitening is offered by Washington Smiles. This in office whitener provides brighter, whiter teeth after about an hour in the dental chair. The powerful 40% hydrogen peroxide gel is activated, so it doesn’t require a hot, uncomfortable light to work. Using the unique double-syringe configuration, the clinician activates the 40% hydrogen peroxide formula just prior to application, ensuring every dose of Opalescence Boost whitening is fresh and effective.
? Why choose in-office professional whitening?
This process is sometimes referred to as laser bleaching or power bleaching. It is a safe, effective way to whiten teeth in the fastest way possible. The process can take anywhere from one to three hours, which includes tooth preparation time.
In-office whitening gives patients instant results.
? Why choose take-home whitening kits?
Take-home whitening kits allow patients to whiten teeth in the privacy of their own home. They are affordable and effective. The process starts with our dentist preparing your teeth and then taking impressions to use as the model for your custom fabricated plastic trays.
Once the kits are fabricated to fit comfortably and securely in your mouth, you will fill the tray with the whitening gel and place the trays over the teeth. Our dentists will let you know how long to wear the trays at one given time. This process typically lasts between ten to fourteen days (or nights), or until the desired whiteness is achieved.
? Is professional teeth whitening right for you?
We can say that over ninety percent of patients see results with professional teeth whitening procedures.
- Patients who make excellent candidates: those with yellow and light brown teeth.
- Patients who will need special whitening techniques: those with dark brown or grayish stains.
- It’s important to note that whitening will not lighten fillings, bonding, or veneers that you may have in your mouth–so no need to worry about that.
- If you are pregnant, have sensitive teeth, damaged teeth, or gum disease, our dentists can help you determine if teeth whitening is right for you.
? Is teeth whitening safe?
Yes, it is safe. Actually, the American Dental Association approves whitening products. In addition, several clinical trials and studies find them effective and safe. Sensitivity may occur after use, but typically goes away within 48 hours.
Professional teeth whitening at Washington Smiles
If you are interested in teeth whitening and finally having a white smile, call Washington Smiles today. We can perform an evaluation during your consultation appointment to determine if teeth whitening is right for you.