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. Teeth whitening is one of our most popular services.
Dr. Cappy Sinclair at Coastal Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry specializes in cosmetic dentistry. As a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, he 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 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 teeth whitening products that also help with sensitivity. We protect your gums with custom-fit bleaching trays. The trays will also spread the whitening solution 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. 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 our Chesapeake dental office is the most effective way to brighten your smile. The process begins with a consultation. Our dentist will check 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. Then, he activates it with 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, and you need a whiter smile right away. We can quickly help you get your smile ready for a wedding, graduation, or job interview.
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. He makes these trays specifically for your teeth so the whitening gel covers everything evenly.
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 other products. A dentist can make sure your gums and teeth are healthy before starting the whitening process. He can also help manage any side effects that might happen during treatment.
The best part is that experts monitor professional whitening treatments. We 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 doesn’t affect the color of dental restorations like fillings, crowns, or veneers. These restorations can stand out if you significantly brighten your teeth. Your dentist may recommend replacing older restorations to match your newly whitened teeth.
Can Teeth Whitening Remove Deep Stains Caused by Medications?
Teeth whitening can address some deep stains, but discoloration from medications like tetracycline may need alternative treatments. We might suggest other options like veneers or bonding for tougher stains to get a more even look.
Will Teeth Whitening Work on Dental Restorations like Veneers or Crowns?
No, teeth whitening treatments don’t work on dental restorations like veneers, crowns, or fillings. These prosthetics are stain-resistant and don’t respond to bleaching agents. However, your dentist can help you if your prosthetics don’t match your natural teeth after whitening. Your dentist can replace them to match the new shade of your teeth.
How Many Shades Lighter can my Teeth Become with Professional Whitening?
Professional whitening in Chesapeake can lighten teeth by 6 to 8 shades. It will depend on the amount of discoloration and the method you use. 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 doesn’t damage enamel if the dentist does it right. Whitening products have safe levels of bleaching agents in them, which is safe to use. But if you use them too much or don’t use them correctly, you might damage your enamel and make your teeth sensitive. Make sure to listen to your dentist’s advice to keep your enamel safe.
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, so they’re more prone to absorbing stains. Stick to light-colored and non-acidic foods during this period to maintain results.
Get Teeth Whitening In Chesapeake, Virginia
It’s common to have some sensitivity after treatment, but this will go away soon after. To keep your smile bright and healthy, it’s important to regularly visit your dentist. 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. Whatever cosmetic service need, we have it at Coastal Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry. Schedule a visit online today.