Answers to Your Top Questions About Professional Teeth Whitening

If you want a brighter, more attractive smile, professional teeth whitening is the perfect solution!

Professional teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dentistry service due to a combination of effectiveness, quick results, and minimal invasiveness. By removing stains and discoloration on your tooth enamel through the whitening process, your smile will look more youthful and healthy, giving you a boost of self-confidence.

Whether you’ve never whitened your teeth before or your experience is limited to at-home teeth whitening kits, here’s what you need to know!

Does professional whitening cost more than at-home teeth whitening?

The upfront cost of a professional teeth whitening session is generally more expensive than at-home teeth whitening kits.

However, consider two major benefits that come with a professional service. Firstly, your tooth enamel and overall oral health will be protected under the supervision of a skilled dentist. Secondly, your whitening results will last longer, requiring fewer maintenance appointments.

The extra expense of professional care is always worth the investment when all factors are considered.

Why should I do professional whitening instead of at-home whitening?

Whitening strips are easily available in most stores, but they don’t quite compare to professional teeth whitening.

At-home whitening kits can cause severe sensitivity when improperly used or simply not even yield noticeable results. In a worst-case scenario, DIY attempts at whitening can even permanently harm your enamel.

Professional teeth whitening is done under the supervision of your dentist. You’ll see incredible results in less time and with a reduced risk of side effects.

How long will it take to start seeing results from professional teeth whitening?

You’ll see results from your professional teeth whitening appointment the very same day. For many patients, it only takes a few hours to see incredible results with a professional whitening treatment.

In some cases, patients with sensitive teeth that need a reduced strength treatment may need two or three appointments to achieve their ideal whiteness. Either way, rest assured your smile will be much brighter after just your first appointment.

If I’m receiving other treatment, like crowns or implants, should I wait to get my teeth whitened?

Nope! Teeth whitening should always be done before you get a dental crown, implant, or any other type of restorative or cosmetic dentistry service.

Dental materials like composite resins and porcelain don’t lighten, so you want to be sure your smile is the ideal brightness level so your dentist can accurately color-match.

If you already have a dental crown or implant that’s too dark, don’t worry. It’s possible to either replace the crown or remove some of the material to add a lighter overlay to help your smile blend.

Will my results look overly white or fake?

Professional teeth whitening is very customizable, and because it’s brightening your natural teeth, it’s very difficult to make your smile look fake or too white.

If you’re concerned about too stark of a contrast, let Dr. Sexton know and he will tailor your whitening session to match your needs. If you find your smile isn’t quite white enough, simply book a follow-up appointment for another session.

My teeth have been sensitive before, will professional teeth whitening hurt?

Some sensitivity is normal with professional teeth whitening. Some patients may find that their teeth are quite sensitive while others can undergo an intense professional whitening session without any sort of side effects.

If you’ve experienced sensitivity before, Dr. Sexton will make note of this during your session to ensure you’re kept as comfortable as possible. A reduced strength whitening treatment coupled with shorter sessions is often the best way to help patients get a white smile without lingering sensitivity afterward.

How often will I need to make appointments to maintain my results?

Once your smile is at the brightness level you want, you’ll need to return for maintenance appointments. Maintenance appointments typically range between six months to one year, though this is highly varied from person to person.

Most professional whitening treatment results can last two to three years in total. Maintenance appointments ensure your results don’t wear off and require you to start from scratch, so to speak.

What can I do to make my results last as long as possible?

Be sure you’re brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings every six months are most important for plaque removal.

If you enjoy coffee, tea, or wine, be aware that these drinks and some foods can easily stain teeth over time. You might choose to limit your consumption or simply be aware that your whitening results may not last as long if you’re a coffee or tea lover.

Is there anything I should do before booking a teeth whitening appointment?

Before your teeth are professionally whitened it’s a good idea to first have them thoroughly cleaned by a hygienist. The cleaner your teeth are prior to whitening, the better the whitening solution can work!

You can book your first professional teeth whitening appointment with Dr. Sexton right now.

Ready to get started on a professional teeth whitening program?

You can take the first step right now by calling our office to book an appointment with Dr. Sexton. From there we can either book your whitening visit right away or, if you’re a new patient, we may first see you for a general check-up.

If our office is closed, you can still start the process of booking your appointment by filling out this online form.