A vivid smile can bring you a confidence boost every time you see yourself in the mirror. If you feel unsatisfied with the brightness of your smile, you may be interested in professional teeth whitening.
Professional teeth whitening is superior to over-the-counter solutions because it lasts longer, is more thorough, and produces results much faster. We offer professional whitening in two formats: in-office and at-home.
In-Office Bleaching
An in-office bleaching procedure is an excellent way to achieve dramatic results in just one or two appointments. Your dental professional protects your lips and gums, and then applies the whitening gel. A few application rounds may be needed to achieve the desired results. Many whitening systems also use a special light to activate the whitening gel. After a careful rinse, the practitioner may apply a treatment to help with sensitivity.
At-Home Whitening
Our at-home whitening kits use professional-grade products and can deliver results comparable to those of professional treatments, though the process takes longer. Many patients prefer the gradual nature of at-home whitening and enjoy using the trays on their own schedule.
To whiten at home, fill your custom-made tray with the correct amount of gel, then gently place your teeth in the tray. You can watch television, read, or relax while the solution works.
Which Method Lasts Longer?
In most cases, in-office whitening lasts the longest, up to three years. However, teeth whitened using any method could be vulnerable to stains if you do not maintain them with the utmost care. Ensure you follow our advice regarding food choices and hygiene routines.
How to Preserve Your Brilliant Smile
The First 24 Hours After Whitening
For the first 24 hours after your whitening procedure, following a "white diet" will preserve your smile for the long term. In the hours immediately after whitening, the teeth are more susceptible to staining. Eating foods like plain chicken, cauliflower, and bananas will nourish your body while your enamel is more porous.
Going Forward
You may eat a regular diet, but take care with acidic or highly pigmented foods. Brush at least twice daily, preferably after each meal, and floss daily. Ask us for recommendations on toothpaste and mouthwash to help maintain your smile. Keep all dental appointments for check-ups and cleanings for the best results.
Enjoying Life With a Brilliant Smile
No matter which professional whitening method you choose, your pride in your new smile will not go unnoticed. Be ready to smile more, laugh more, and feel great about the way you look. Reach out for help and advice for maintaining your whitened teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening
What chemicals do dentists use to whiten teeth, and how do they work?
Most professional whitening solutions contain a high concentration of carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. Peroxide compounds work by entering natural pores in the tooth enamel and oxidizing the stains from the inside out.
How often can I have my teeth whitened?
Generally, most patients can go 1 to 3 years between professional whitening treatments, depending on their desired results. Intermediate touch-ups can help maintain your look.
Does whitening cause tooth sensitivity?
Professional whitening is less likely to cause sensitivity than prolonged use of over-the-counter products. Dentists can easily adapt their whitening procedures and provide fluoride-based remineralization treatments to cut sensitivity.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have crowns or bridges?
Unfortunately, teeth whitening products work only on natural enamel. You can choose to whiten your dental work to its original shade, or have the crowns and bridges replaced before whitening your teeth.
What foods should I avoid to keep my teeth brighter longer?
Avoid or limit heavily pigmented foods and beverages, especially in the crucial first few days after the whitening procedure. A list of foods you may wish to limit includes:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Berries and their juice
- Dark chocolate
- Red wine
- Sodas
- Tomato sauce
- Soy sauce
- Turmeric
If you do drink a staining beverage, use a straw to keep the liquid away from your visible teeth, and rinse or brush as soon as you can.At Washington Park Family Dental, we want to help you achieve the most vivid, longest-lasting smile possible. Our expertly designed teeth whitening procedures can give you the smile you've always wanted. Please get in touch with us to schedule your teeth whitening consultation today.