SPECIALTY

Teeth bleaching is a cosmetic procedure that lightens discoloration and stains on the teeth, restoring them to their natural color. Teeth whitening can be done in the dentist’s office or at home with professional or over-the-counter products. It is a purely cosmetic dental procedure that significantly improves the aesthetics of the teeth.

Types of Teeth Whitening

There are two main types of whitening: in-office treatment and at-home whitening kits.

In-Office Whitening

Professional treatments in a dental office are the most effective option because the dentist has access to stronger bleaching materials than what is available for purchase over the counter at a pharmacy or grocery store. Plus, patients can talk to their dentist about the best product for their needs and lifestyle. 

With in-office whitening, the bleaching agent is applied by our dentist and then removed or “neutralized” through a special light. This option is fast and convenient and usually produces dramatic results after a single appointment.

At-Home Whitening

If you choose to whiten your teeth at home, be sure to follow the directions precisely. Also, you should only whiten teeth that are completely healthy; otherwise, the bleach could impact any underlying problems negatively. For the best results, get your teeth professionally cleaned first to remove surface stains that will interfere with the whitening process. Then, you can get your bleaching trays from a dental professional to whiten your smile in the comfort of your own home!

While the at-home option takes longer than an in-office visit, some patients prefer this method because they are more comfortable applying the treatment on their own schedule and in the comfort of their own homes. Many dentists also offer customized mouth guards for at-home use, which are a great option for those who suffer from teeth grinding.

If you are wondering whether teeth whitening is right for you, schedule a consultation today! We can talk to you about everything you’d like to change about your smile and help you come up with a plan to make it happen. 

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Yes, professional-grade teeth whitening is very safe. Our staff has the training and expertise necessary to ensure that your treatment will be safely administered. Laser whitening is one of the most common forms of in-office treatment today - and for good reason. It’s fast, comfortable, effective, and convenient. 

Before undergoing any teeth bleaching procedure at our office, our dentist will make sure your gums are healthy so that the bleach won’t irritate them.

For more information, contact our Alexandria dental office at (703) 823-2848 or 5130 Duke St, Suite 8, Alexandria, VA 22304, or our Manassas dental office at (703) 479-7654 or 8608 Centreville Rd, Manassas, VA 20110.