Many people want a bright, white smile that they can be proud of. But over time, things like age, coffee, tea, and other lifestyle habits can cause stained or discolored teeth. Professional teeth whitening is a great way to get back that sparkling smile. At our office near Chesapeake, VA, we offer several ways to whiten your teeth. You can choose to get fast results in our office or take home a kit for more gradual whitening.
Dr. Cappy Sinclair at Coastal Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry specializes in cosmetic dentistry, and teeth whitening is one of his main services. As a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Sinclair has the experience and skill to help you get the results you want. Every treatment starts with a consultation to check your oral health and understand your whitening goals. From there, Dr. Sinclair will design a plan that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Professional Teeth Whitening vs. Over-the-Counter Options
Professional teeth whitening offers better results than over-the-counter products. Dr. Sinclair uses products that whiten your teeth while reducing the chance of side effects like tooth sensitivity. With custom-fit bleaching trays, your gums are protected, and the whitening solution spreads evenly over your teeth. This ensures that you get predictable and noticeable results in a shorter time compared to store-bought whitening kits.
While over-the-counter options may seem cheaper, they often take longer to work, and the results aren’t always reliable. You may also risk damaging your teeth and gums because there’s no professional supervision. With professional teeth whitening, you can trust that the process is safe and your teeth are in good hands.
How Does Whitening at The Dentist Work?
Whitening your teeth at the dentist’s office is the most effective way to brighten your smile. The process usually starts with a consultation, where the dentist checks the health of your teeth and gums and talks about your whitening goals. Dentists offer two main methods of professional teeth whitening: in-office treatments and take-home kits.
In-office Teeth Whitening
In-office whitening is a fast and easy way to get results. The dentist applies a strong bleaching gel to your teeth, which may be activated by a special light or laser for quicker results. This process usually takes about an hour and can make your teeth several shades lighter in just one visit.
Dr. Sinclair offers in-office whitening for patients who want quick results. This option is perfect if you have a special event coming up, like a wedding, graduation, or job interview, and you need a whiter smile right away.
Take-home Whitening Kits
If you prefer to whiten your teeth at home, a take-home kit might be a better fit. Dr. Sinclair can provide custom-fitted trays that you’ll use with a bleaching solution. The dentist designs these trays to fit your teeth perfectly, ensuring even coverage of the whitening gel. The take-home kits use a milder bleach than the in-office treatments, so it takes a bit longer to see results, but you can do it on your own schedule.
Most take-home kits recommend using the bleaching trays once a day for a few weeks. This method is slower, but it’s convenient and flexible, allowing you to whiten your teeth at your own pace.
Why Choose Professional Whitening?
Whether you choose in-office whitening or a take-home kit, professional teeth whitening is much safer and more effective than over-the-counter products. A dentist can make sure your gums and teeth are healthy before starting the whitening process. They can also help manage any side effects, such as sensitivity, that might occur during treatment.
Professional whitening is monitored by experts who can adjust the treatment to make sure you get the best results with minimal risk. This is something you just don’t get with store-bought kits.
Will teeth whitening make my fillings or crowns look different?
Teeth whitening does not affect the color of dental restorations like fillings, crowns, or veneers. If your natural teeth lighten significantly, these restorations may stand out. Your dentist may recommend replacing older restorations to match your newly whitened teeth.
Can teeth whitening remove deep stains or discoloration caused by medications?
Teeth whitening can address some deep stains, but discoloration caused by medications like tetracycline may require alternative treatments. In-office whitening may lighten the stains; however, we may recommend options like veneers or bonding for severe cases to achieve a uniform appearance.
Will teeth whitening work on dental restorations like veneers or crowns?
No, teeth whitening treatments do not work on dental restorations like veneers, crowns, or fillings. These materials are stain-resistant and do not respond to bleaching agents. If your restorations no longer match your natural teeth after whitening, they may need to be replaced to match the new shade.
How many shades lighter can my teeth become with professional whitening?
Professional whitening can lighten teeth by 6 to 8 shades, depending on the level of discoloration and the method used. In-office treatments typically deliver faster and more dramatic results, while take-home kits offer gradual whitening. Your dentist will assess your teeth and set realistic expectations based on their condition.
Can teeth whitening damage my enamel?
No, professional teeth whitening does not damage enamel when performed correctly. Whitening products contain safe levels of bleaching agents, but overuse or improper application can lead to enamel erosion and sensitivity. It’s important to follow your dentist’s recommendations to protect your enamel.
How long after teeth whitening can I eat normally?
You should wait at least 24 to 48 hours before eating staining foods and drinks like coffee, wine, or berries. Teeth are more porous immediately after whitening, making them more prone to absorbing stains. Stick to light-colored, non-acidic foods during this period to maintain results.
Get Teeth Whitening In Chesapeake, Virginia
It’s common to experience some sensitivity during teeth whitening, but this will go away soon after you finish the treatment. To keep your smile bright and healthy, it’s important to visit the dentist regularly. Regular check-ups will help maintain your results and keep your teeth in top shape.
If you have deep stains that can’t be fixed with whitening, Dr. Sinclair might suggest covering the tooth with a dental veneer or crown. These options can improve the look of a stained tooth and give you a long-lasting bright smile.
Ready to get started? Call our office in Chesapeake, VA, or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about teeth whitening and how we can help you achieve a beautiful, white smile.