Do you feel like your teeth could be whiter? Do you have a wedding coming up? Have you considered exploring your options but unsure if it is safe or right for you? Professional tooth whitening is a safe way to whiten the overall appearance of teeth. Adams, Cheek, and Holt Dentistry offer two options when it comes to tooth whitening. We offer at-home whitening as well as in-office whitening.
How Tooth Whitening Works
Tooth whitening is a process that whitens the tooth structure from the inside out. Peroxide in the whitening gel moves into the tooth structure where it breaks down molecules that cause discoloration. The gel lightens the entire tooth even if the entire tooth is not covered in whitening gel. Fortunately, this process does not break down the structure of the tooth. The gel used simply lightens the color of the tooth. Additionally, the gel lightens only the natural portion of the teeth. Whitening gel does not change the color of fillings or crowns.
At-Home Whitening
Custom fit trays are a great option to ensure optimal whitening results.
- An assistant takes impressions of both the top and bottom teeth.
- We fabricate custom fit trays for each individual in about a week.
- Patients return to the office to make sure the whitening trays fit properly, and we review instructions for using the whitening gel.
In-Office Whitening
Adams, Cheek, and Holt Dentistry offers ZOOM! whitening as an in-office whitening option. This treatment achieves whiter teeth in about 45 minutes. Patients will leave the office with a whiter, brighter smile.
- An assistant isolates teeth by prepping gums and mouth.
- A layer of whitening gel is applied to the teeth.
- Your dental professional shines a blue LED lamp on the teeth to speed up the whitening process.
- This process is repeated three times.
- Post treatment gel is applied to help with sensitivity.
Whitening and Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of whitening. Fortunately, this sensitivity is temporary and should not last after whitening is completed. Most whitening gels we offer at Adams and Cheek Dentistry are available with desensitizing agents to help reduce sensitivity.
How Long Whitening Lasts
Rarely does a patient return to the initial shade prior to whitening. Nutrition and lifestyle habits can play a role in how long the whitening effects last. For optimal results, we recommend patients touch up whitening, by whitening once or twice, after cleanings. However, not all patients require whitening touch ups after every cleaning.
The staff at Adams, Cheek, and Holt Dentistry are always happy to discuss any questions you have about changing the shade of your teeth. We are currently offering a whitening special of $100 any whitening treatment through the end of May! You may reach us at 919.866.1360 or click here to schedule an appointment.
