Cosmetic Dentistry |3 min read

Teeth Whitening: Your Top 5 Questions – ANSWERED!

before and after teeth whitening

Curious about teeth whitening services to liven up your smile?

If you’ve tried teeth whitening kits at home, you might’ve been disappointed with the results. But did you know you can lighten your teeth up to several shades in just one visit under professional care?

That’s right – dental offices DO offer whitening services, and ultimately they may be the best option for you to brighten your smile.

But:

We know you’re doing your due diligence and researching as much as you can about teeth whitening and what it’s like.

That’s why we’ve gathered your most frequently asked questions about the treatment and will answer them in this blog.

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is one of the many cosmetic dental services we offer that brightens your smile and confidence.

Using a professional whitening solution, we can safely whiten your teeth up to several shades. With dentist-approved methods, it’s quick, convenient, and won’t damage your teeth or gums.

What is the procedure like?

In-office teeth whitening can brighten your smile up to several shades in one visit.

Step 1: We’ll check your teeth and gums to make sure they’re healthy before beginning treatment. Then, together we’ll look at your current tooth color and decide how bright you want your smile to go. Your teeth are then cleaned to remove plaque.

Step 2: The teeth are dried, and a retractor may be used to keep your lips and tongue from interfering with the whitening products. We’ll use a gel or shield to protect your gums.

Step 3: The front surface of your teeth is covered with a whitening solution, and a special light will activate the whitening process! We’ll closely monitor the progress of your treatment until your desired result is reached.

Step 4: We’ll rinse off the solution and may apply fluoride for tooth sensitivity.

Step 5: After we’re done, we’ll discuss post-care, including food and drinks to avoid for the next few hours to maximize your new smile’s whiteness.

It’s that easy!

How long does teeth whitening last?

When done by a professional, it can last 2-3 years. Over-the-counter home whitening products may only last a few months.

Keep in mind:

Tooth whitening treatments depend on your lifestyle habits as well! Good oral habits can keep your newly whitened smile around for longer.

Why are my teeth stained?

There are a few factors that contribute to stained or discolored teeth.

Some common causes are:

  • Foods and liquids you consume
  • Dental hygiene
  • Smoking
  • Age

Unfortunately, there are some factors we can’t control, such as age. Teeth tend to change color as we age due to the natural wear and tear of the enamel.

Brushing your teeth twice a day with an FDA-approved toothpaste can help reduce stains, but if you’re still concerned, schedule a consultation to discuss how you can achieve your desired white shade.

Where can I get teeth whitening in Seattle, WA?

Do you need a brighter smile for a special event, reunion, or for your own confidence?

Good news – you can whiten your teeth up to several shades in just one visit at Love Your Smile. We know how important it is to have a smile you’re proud of, and that’s why we’ll work with you to find what works best with your desired shade, budget, and timeline.

As one of the most cost-effective cosmetic dental treatments, we believe teeth whitening may be the solution you’re looking for. However, we’re not just cosmetic based – we offer other dental services, including:

Get started with teeth whitening treatments!

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Areas served include Downtown Seattle, Lake Union, and Belltown.