Professional teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental care treatments today. It is a safe, simple, and effective solution that can brighten dull, discolored, or stained teeth. This can be a source of embarrassment for many patients. It can keep them from smiling, talking, and laughing. With professional teeth whitening, patients can whiten their teeth in as little as one hour. 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 effectively uses professional whitening agents and advanced technology to brighten discolored teeth with multiple shades. It only takes about an hour at our Washington, DC dentist office.
Over the Counter Products vs Professional Teeth Whitening
Over-the-counter teeth whitening kits, strips, and products may lead to inconsistent and undesirable results. It can also take months to even notice the results if any at all. Professional teeth whitening allows your dentist to create a personalized solution based on your needs. Not all smiles are created equal. Therefore, each patient’s treatment plan is created with their specific cosmetic and oral health goals in mind. It is much safer since a dentist is performing the treatment.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening:
- Visible results
- Consistent results
- Limit damage or irritation to soft tissue
- Longer lasting results
- Reducing sensitivity
- Safe and effective treatment option
Types of Professional Teeth Whitening in Washington DC
DC Precision Dentistry offers both in-office and take-home teeth whitening options for your convenience. Dr. Deckard works with each patient to determine which solution best suits their needs.
Dr. Deckard will examine the teeth and gums to determine if professional teeth whitening is the ideal solution for your needs. In some cases, not even professional teeth whitening can eliminate certain stains. If that is the case, Dr. Deckard may recommend tooth bonding, porcelain veneers, or a dental crown. These cosmetic treatments will enhance the appearance of your stained or discolored teeth.
Dr. Deckard will also be sure to address any underlying dental concerns before performing any cosmetic procedures. We believe that healthy teeth support a beautiful smile.
How Teeth Whitening Works
Dr. Deckard will thoroughly clean the teeth to remove any plaque build-up and debris. We give patients protective eyewear to shield their eyes and splash guards to protect their clothing.
We will place cheek retractors in your mouth to expose the teeth. Then we will cover the gums with a protecting gel to reduce sensitivity and irritation. The whitening gel is carefully applied to the teeth and activated using a halide light. Your dentist will repeat this entire process every 15 minutes for about an hour.
After the final treatment, the gel is removed, and the teeth are cleaned. You will notice results right away. Before you leave, we will give you tips on how to make your results last for as long as possible.
Maintaining Teeth Whitening
Practicing the same habits that caused stained or discolored teeth can lead to temporary results. Avoiding dark beverages such as red wine, tea, and coffee will ensure the most lasting result.
Touch-ups can also help prolong your white smile. Also, be sure to practice a healthy oral hygiene routine and visit the dentist for preventive care visits. To learn more about teeth whitening, visit DC Precision Dentistry.
Professional 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 do not cause long-term damage. Getting teeth whitening from the dentist is the safest way to get brighter teeth. We will closely monitor your progress and make sure you are comfortable.
Can my dentist whiten my dental restorations?
No. Dental restorations such as dentures, crowns, and veneers can not be whitened with teeth whitening services. Dental prosthetics contain materials that are highly stain-resistant. Your dentist can recommend options to help keep your restorations bright, as well as options to replace old restorations.
How long does dentist teeth whitening last?
In-office teeth whitening treatments can last from 6 months to 3 years. Longevity will depend on how well an individual maintains oral hygiene and avoids staining food and drinks. On the other hand, at-home teeth whitening kits, such as those that use whitening strips or trays, may produce results that last for a shorter duration. These kits usually contain lower concentrations of bleaching agents and may require multiple applications to achieve 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 do not recommend Teeth whitening procedures for patients with cavities. Cavities can cause damage to the tooth enamel, and the bleaching agents in teeth whitening treatments can further irritate and damage the teeth, causing pain and sensitivity. Before any teeth whitening procedure, it is essential to have a dental exam to check for any underlying dental issues. If cavities are present, your dentist should treat them before you undergo any teeth whitening procedure. It is best to consult a dentist to determine if teeth whitening is a suitable option for you.
Will a teeth whitening treatment remove stains?
Yes, teeth whitening can remove stains from the surface of teeth. The bleaching agents in teeth whitening treatments work to break down and remove surface stains caused by things like coffee, tea, and tobacco. However, if internal factors such as medications or genetics are the cause of your stains, teeth whitening may not be effective. It’s important to talk to a dentist about the cause of the stains before starting any teeth whitening treatment.
Schedule A Consultation
Teeth whitening can transform a smile! To determine if professional teeth whitening is right for you, visit our Washington, DC dentist office. To schedule an appointment, call (202) 851-7554 or request an appointment.