A brighter smile can make a noticeable difference in your appearance, but with so many whitening products available at pharmacies and online, it can be difficult to know which option is right for you.
Professional teeth whitening offers a dentist-supervised way to brighten your smile using professional-grade whitening products. At Alex Martin, DDS in Scottsdale, AZ, patients can choose between in-office whitening and custom take-home whitening with Opalescence.
Here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from our Scottsdale patients about professional teeth whitening.
What Is Professional Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment designed to lighten the color of natural teeth and reduce certain types of staining and discoloration.
At Alex Martin, DDS, professional whitening is available as either an in-office treatment or a take-home treatment using Opalescence whitening products. In-office whitening uses professional-strength gel and is designed to significantly brighten the smile during a single visit. Take-home whitening uses custom-fitted trays and professional-grade gel that you use according to your dentist's instructions.
How Is Professional Whitening Different From Store-Bought Whitening Kits?
Over-the-counter whitening products are widely available and include whitening strips, toothpastes, trays, and gels. Professional whitening differs in the level of customization and professional oversight involved.
At a dental office, your dentist can evaluate your teeth and gums before recommending whitening. Professional treatments can also use professional-grade whitening products and, in the case of take-home treatment, custom-fitted trays designed specifically for your teeth.
The right option depends on your goals, the type of discoloration you have, and the condition of your teeth.
Is In-Office Whitening Faster Than Take-Home Whitening?
Generally, yes. In-office whitening is designed to provide significant whitening in a single visit, making it an option for patients who want faster results.
Take-home whitening takes longer because you whiten your teeth at home according to the treatment instructions. However, some patients prefer this option because it allows them to whiten their smiles on their own schedule.
During a cosmetic consultation, Dr. Martin and your dental team will help you decide which approach best fits your timeline and preferences.
What Happens During Professional Teeth Whitening?
Your professional teeth whitening experience with Alex Martin, DDS, in Scottsdale will depend on whether you choose in-office or take-home whitening.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
With in-office whitening, your dental team applies professional-strength whitening gel as part of a controlled treatment in the dental office. The treatment is designed to brighten your smile during one appointment.
Because the treatment is performed right here in our Scottsdale dental office, your dental team will be able to monitor the process and help ensure your comfort throughout the appointment.
Take-Home Teeth Whitening
For take-home whitening, your dental team creates custom-fitted trays for your teeth. You then use the professional-grade whitening gel at home according to the instructions provided by your dental team.
This option allows you to whiten your smile at your own pace and can also be useful for maintaining your results over time.
Does Teeth Whitening Cause Sensitivity?
Some people experience temporary tooth sensitivity during or after whitening. Sensitivity can vary depending on the individual, the whitening product, and the treatment approach.
If you have sensitive teeth, let your dentist know before beginning treatment. Your dental team can take your sensitivity into consideration when recommending a whitening option and can provide guidance for managing temporary discomfort. The office of Alex Martin, DDS, also offers desensitizing treatments as part of our preventive dental services.
Can Whitening Damage My Teeth?
Professional teeth whitening is designed to safely brighten natural teeth. However, whitening products should always be used according to the manufacturer's and dental professional's instructions.
It's also important to understand that whitening is not appropriate for every dental concern. Your dentist can evaluate your teeth before treatment to determine whether whitening is a suitable option for you.
Will Whitening Change the Color of Crowns, Veneers, or Fillings?
Whitening treatments work on natural tooth structure. They do not whiten dental restorations such as porcelain veneers, crowns, or tooth-colored fillings in the same way they whiten natural teeth.
If you have visible restorations and are considering whitening, talk with your dentist beforehand. Your dentist can help you plan your treatment so that the final shade of your natural teeth and any existing restorations are considered together.
How Can I Keep My Teeth White After Teeth Whitening Treatment?
Teeth naturally accumulate new stains over time. Certain foods, beverages, and lifestyle habits can contribute to discoloration.
To help maintain the results of your teeth whitening treatment, Dr. Martin recommends:
- Brush your teeth twice a day.
- Clean between your teeth daily.
- Keep up with regular dental cleanings.
- Drink water regularly.
- Be mindful of foods and drinks that can stain teeth.
- Avoid tobacco products.
- Follow your dentist's recommendations for whitening touch-ups.
If you choose take-home whitening, your custom trays may also be useful for maintaining your brighter smile with periodic treatments as recommended by your dental team.
How Long Do Teeth Whitening Results Last?
There isn't a single amount of time that whitening results will last for everyone. Results can gradually fade as your teeth are exposed to foods, beverages, tobacco, and normal daily wear.
Your oral hygiene habits and lifestyle can influence how long your smile stays bright. Periodic touch-up treatments may help maintain your results, but these should be performed according to your dentist's recommendations.
Can Anyone Get Professional Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is not necessarily appropriate for every patient. Your dentist should evaluate your oral health and the cause of your tooth discoloration before treatment.
For example, tooth discoloration caused by certain dental conditions or restorations may not respond to traditional whitening in the same way as surface staining on natural teeth.
A dental evaluation can help determine whether whitening is right for you or whether another cosmetic treatment, such as veneers or dental bonding, would better address your concerns.
Is Professional Teeth Whitening Worth It?
For patients who want to brighten their natural smile, professional whitening can be a convenient cosmetic treatment. Alex Martin, DDS offers both in-office and take-home Opalescence whitening, allowing patients to choose an approach based on their desired results, schedule, and preferences.
Professional whitening can also be part of a larger smile makeover. If you're considering veneers, bonding, or another cosmetic treatment, your dentist can help coordinate your treatment so your smile looks balanced and natural.
Learn More About Professional Teeth Whitening in Scottsdale, AZ
If you're ready for a brighter smile, Alex Martin, DDS offers professional teeth whitening in Scottsdale using Opalescence in-office and take-home treatments. The team can evaluate your smile, discuss your goals, and help you determine which whitening option is right for you.
Ready to brighten your smile? Contact Alex Martin, DDS, to schedule a professional teeth whitening consultation in Scottsdale, AZ.
