What Is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a quick, painless procedure that restores the natural color of your teeth. There are two main methods of professional whitening: in-office whitening and at-home tray whitening.

In-Office Whitening

Our in-office whitening uses a powerful gel that dramatically whitens your teeth and reduces stains. Because of how effective it is, you can add this service to any regular dental appointment.

Professional whitening systems use a stronger concentration of hydrogen peroxide than over-the-counter products, so it only takes one visit for a noticeably whiter smile!

Tray Whitening

If you’d prefer to whiten your teeth at home, our take-home trays might be a better option for you. Here’s how it works.

Our dentist, Dr. Mullaney, will take impressions of your teeth to create custom whitening trays. Then, you’ll receive a whitening gel to use at your convenience. Dr. Mullaney will show you how to apply the gel as well as how much to use.

The trays are usually worn for about an hour a day for two weeks. However, this depends on your needs and the type of bleaching product used. You can stop wearing the trays once you’ve reached your desired shade of whiteness.

Not sure which is right for you? Contact our Alexandria dental office today! We can help you decide which method is more suited to your needs.

What Causes Tooth Discoloration?

There are various causes of tooth discoloration, including your lifestyle, poor dental hygiene, and disease. Another common culprit is the consumption of teeth-staining substances, such as:

• Tobacco products
• Coffee and dark tea
• Wine
• Carbonated drinks
• Dark fruits, like raspberries, blackberries, and cherries

Who Is a Candidate for Teeth Whitening?

Almost anyone is a candidate for teeth whitening! Dr. Mullaney will tell you if you’re eligible for whitening at your initial consultation. In most cases, professional whitening can remove stains caused by the following:

• Age – Our teeth darken with age. This is emphasized by hereditary factors or lifestyle habits.
• Lifestyle – As mentioned above, certain foods and drinks can result in stained or discolored teeth. That said, teeth with yellow tones tend to respond better to treatment.

Whitening isn’t recommended for patients with worn enamel, exposed roots, or gum disease. Pregnant or nursing women and those with medical conditions or diseases are also unsuited.

Cosmetic appliances, including dental implants, crowns, or porcelain veneers, will not respond to whitening treatment. 

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

How long teeth whitening lasts depends on the application and type of bleaching agent. Your lifestyle can also affect this timeframe. For example, whitening may be less effective if you continue to eat the same foods that stained your teeth in the first place.

Recently whitened teeth are more susceptible to discoloration, so avoid teeth-staining foods the first week after treatment. We recommend using a straw for dark-colored beverages, brushing your teeth twice a day, and seeing us for regular cleanings for the best results.