Professional teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental care treatments available today. It is a safe, simple, and effective solution that can brighten dull, discolored, or stained teeth. Patients can whiten their teeth in one hour with professional teeth whitening at the dentist. This in-office procedure is pain-free and offers incredible results.
At DC Precision Dentistry, Dr. Justin Deckard offers Zoom!® Chairside Whitening System to deliver beautiful, long-lasting results. Zoom uses professional whitening agents and advanced technology to brighten discolored teeth by multiple shades. It only takes about an hour at our Washington, DC, dental office.
Professional Teeth Whitening in Washington, DC
At DC Precision Dentistry, we offer both in-office and take-home teeth whitening options to fit your lifestyle and needs. Dr. Deckard will work with you to figure out which option is best for you. During your consultation, he’ll examine your teeth and gums to make sure you’re a good candidate for whitening.
While professional teeth whitening can work wonders for many stains, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some stubborn stains like those caused by certain medications, trauma, or genetics might not respond to whitening treatments. If that’s the case, Dr. Deckard might recommend other cosmetic options, such as tooth bonding, porcelain veneers, or dental crowns. These treatments can cover up discoloration and give you the bright teeth you’re looking for.
Before any cosmetic procedure, Dr. Deckard will make sure your teeth and gums are healthy. After all, a healthy smile is the foundation of a stunning one!
How Teeth Whitening Works at DC Precision Dentistry
Our in-office teeth whitening process is quick, comfortable, and delivers amazing results. Here’s what you can expect.
First, Dr. Deckard will clean your teeth to remove any plaque or debris. This ensures the whitening gel can work evenly and effectively. You’ll be given protective eyewear and a splash guard to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
Next, we’ll use cheek retractors to expose your teeth and apply a protective gel to your gums. This gel helps prevent sensitivity and irritation. Then, we’ll carefully apply the whitening gel to your teeth and use a special UV light to activate it. This process is repeated every 15 minutes for about an hour.
Once the final treatment is done, we’ll remove the gel and clean your teeth. You’ll leave the office with a noticeably brighter smile that’s often several shades whiter! Before you go, we’ll give you tips on how to maintain your results and keep your smile looking its best.
Maintaining Your Results
It’s important to avoid the habits that caused stains in the first place to keep your newly whitened smile looking fresh. Dark beverages are major culprits, so try to limit them or use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth. Smoking and tobacco use can also stain your teeth, so quitting is a great way to protect your smile.
Good oral hygiene is key to maintaining your results. Brush twice a day with a whitening toothpaste, floss daily, and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash. Regular dental cleanings and checkups will also help your teeth stay bright and healthy.
If you notice your smile starting to dull over time, touch-up treatments can help. Whether it’s an in-office session or a take-home kit, Dr. Deckard can recommend the best option to keep your smile glowing.
Over-the-Counter Products vs. Professional Teeth Whitening
Over-the-counter (OTC) products like whitening strips, gels, and kits might seem convenient, but they often come with a few downsides. For starters, the results can be hit or miss. It might take weeks or even months to see any noticeable change. And even then, the results can be uneven or underwhelming.
That’s where professional teeth whitening comes in. With professional treatment, you can get dramatic results in just one visit to the dentist. Dr. Deckard will customize your treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals. He will make sure you get the best possible outcome. Plus, the procedure is much safer and gentler on your teeth and gums because it’s performed by a dental professional.
Here’s why professional whitening is the way to go:
- Visible Results: You’ll see a noticeable difference right away. You’ll get several shades whiter in just one session.
- Consistent Results: Unlike OTC products, professional treatments provide even results across all your teeth.
- Gentle on Your Gums: Your dentist takes extra care to protect your gums and soft tissues to reduce the risk of irritation.
- Long-Lasting Effects: Your results can last much longer than those from OTC products.
- Reduced Sensitivity: Professional treatments are designed to minimize sensitivity. You can enjoy a brighter smile without the discomfort.
- Safe and Effective: Your dentist uses high-quality professional-grade products that are both safe and effective.
While OTC products might seem like a quick fix, they often fall short when trying to deliver real lasting results. Professional teeth whitening will give you a brighter smile in a safe and controlled environment. Ready to transform your smile? Contact DC Precision Dentistry today to schedule your whitening consultation!
Teeth Whitening FAQs
Is Teeth Whitening A Painful Process?
No, teeth whitening at the dentist is not a painful process. We will not need to numb your mouth for this procedure. You may feel some teeth sensitivity after the procedure. This is completely normal and should go away in a few hours.
Is Teeth Whitening Bad For Your Teeth?
Teeth whitening at the dentist is safe for your teeth. We only use safe materials and low dosages that don’t cause long-term damage. It’s the safest way to get brighter teeth. We will closely monitor your progress and make sure you’re comfortable.
Can My Dentist Whiten My Dental Restorations?
No, dental restorations such as dentures, crowns, and veneers can’t be whitened with teeth whitening services. Dental prosthetics contain materials that are highly stain-resistant. Your dentist can recommend options to help your restorations stay bright, and replace old restorations.
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
In-office teeth whitening treatments can last from 6 months to 3 years. How long your teeth last will depend on how well you take care of them, and avoid foods and drinks that can stain them.
On the other hand, at-home teeth whitening kits give results that last for a shorter duration. These kits usually contain lower concentrations of bleaching agents and need many applications to get the desired results. The results of at-home treatments can last between several weeks to a few months.
Can I Get A Teeth Whitening Treatment If I Have Cavities?
Dentists generally don’t recommend Teeth whitening procedures for patients with cavities. Cavities can damage tooth enamel, and the bleaching agents can further irritate the cavities. This causes lots of pain and sensitivity.
Before any teeth whitening procedure, you will have a dental exam to check for any underlying dental issues. If cavities are present, your dentist will treat them before you get your teeth whitened. You should always talk to a dentist to see if teeth whitening could work for you before getting treatment.
Will A Teeth Whitening Treatment Remove Stains?
Yes, teeth whitening can remove stains from the surface of teeth. The bleaching agents in whitening treatments break down and remove surface stains caused by coffee, tea, and tobacco. However, if internal factors such as medications or genetics cause your stains, teeth whitening may not be effective. Talking to a dentist about the cause of the stains is important before starting any teeth whitening treatment.
Schedule A Dental Exam Today
Teeth whitening can transform a smile! To determine if professional teeth whitening is for you, visit our Washington, DC dental office. To schedule an appointment, call (202) 851-7554 or request an appointment online.