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A brighter smile can make you feel more confident in photos, at work, and in everyday conversations. However, teeth can lose their natural brightness over time due to aging, genetics, and common staining foods and beverages. At Westerville Dental Associates, we offer professional teeth whitening to help reduce discoloration and refresh your smile. Whether you want to address years of staining or brighten your teeth, our dental team can help you explore the right option for your needs.
What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment that uses bleaching agents to lighten the color of natural teeth. These agents break down the compounds responsible for discoloration in the enamel and dentin. Common causes of staining include coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco use, although some discoloration occurs naturally with age.
At Westerville Dental Associates, we use the Opalescence Boost whitening system for in-office treatment. We also offer professional take-home whitening gel, allowing patients to discuss options that fit their preferences and goals. Before treatment, our dentist can evaluate your teeth and gums to determine whether whitening is appropriate and what results you may reasonably expect.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening offers several benefits for patients who want to improve their smile's appearance.
- A brighter smile: Whitening can reduce many stains and help your natural teeth look lighter and cleaner.
- Noticeable results in less time: In-office whitening can brighten teeth in about an hour, while take-home options allow you to whiten gradually.
- Dentist-supervised care: Your dental team can help determine whether whitening suits your oral health and recommend products for your needs.
- A noninvasive cosmetic treatment: Whitening changes the appearance of natural tooth color without changing the tooth's shape.
- Options for maintaining results: Professional take-home gel and good oral hygiene habits can help you maintain a brighter smile.
Whitening does not change the color of crowns, veneers, or tooth-colored fillings, and some types of discoloration may respond less predictably. A consultation can help you understand what treatment can achieve.
In-Office Whitening vs. Over-the-Counter Products
Both professional whitening and store-bought products can help lighten natural teeth, but they differ in treatment time, whitening strength, and professional guidance.
In-office Opalescence Boost
Westerville Dental Associates uses Opalescence Boost, a professional whitening system that uses a high-concentration bleaching gel to lighten discoloration in approximately one hour. The gel is chemically activated, so a separate heat-producing light is not needed. The formula also contains potassium nitrate and fluoride, which help reduce sensitivity and strengthen enamel. Your teeth may continue to lighten for 12 to 24 hours after treatment.
Over-the-counter whitening products
Store-bought whitening strips, brush-on gels, and toothpastes are widely available and can be convenient for home use. However, they typically take weeks or months to produce noticeable changes, and results may be more limited. Using whitening products too often or leaving them on longer than directed can irritate the gums and increase tooth sensitivity. A dental consultation can help you decide whether an over-the-counter product is appropriate for your teeth.
Teeth Whitening FAQ
Why whiten your teeth?
Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. A whiter, brighter smile will do wonders for your self-confidence and first impressions!
Who is a good candidate for teeth whitening?
Adults with healthy teeth and gums who want to reduce discoloration may be good candidates for professional whitening. We will first check for concerns such as cavities, gum inflammation, or exposed tooth roots that could affect your comfort. Whitening may not be suitable for everyone, and the practice advises against Opalescence Boost for children under 13, pregnant women, and those who are breastfeeding. Our team can help you determine whether treatment is appropriate.
Is tooth whitening safe?
Teeth whitening is generally safe when performed under dental supervision and used as directed. At Westerville Dental Associates, your dental team can evaluate your oral health before recommending treatment. Opalescence Boost® contains potassium nitrate and fluoride to help reduce sensitivity while strengthening enamel. Follow your dentist's instructions and avoid using whitening products more often than recommended.
How long will results last?
How long your results last depends on your diet, oral hygiene habits, and exposure to staining substances. Coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco can contribute to discoloration over time. Brushing twice daily, flossing, and keeping up with regular dental cleanings can help maintain your brighter smile. Westerville Dental Associates also offers professional take-home whitening gel for touch-ups when appropriate.
Are there negative side effects to teeth whitening?
Some patients experience temporary tooth sensitivity, especially when consuming cold foods or drinks. Gum irritation can also occur, particularly if whitening products contact the soft tissues or are used incorrectly. The practice notes that sensitivity after Opalescence Boost generally resolves within one to three days. Contact us if discomfort is severe, persists, or concerns you.
Is it possible to over-whiten my teeth?
Yes. Using whitening products too frequently or for longer than directed can increase sensitivity and irritate your gums. More whitening does not necessarily mean a better result, and some types of discoloration may not respond as expected. Follow our instructions or the product manufacturer's rather than repeating treatments to reach a specific shade. Our dental team can help you set a realistic whitening goal and determine whether touch-ups are appropriate.
Is there any difference between over-the-counter tooth whiteners and Opalescence Boost®?
Yes! Consulting our dentist is always the first step to whitening your teeth safely. Over-the-counter tooth whitening strips, brush-on gels and toothpastes take weeks or months to whiten your teeth a few shades. Opalescence Boost® is clinically proven to whiten your teeth in just one hour.
Is the In-Office Whitening procedure painful?
No. During the procedure, patients can actually watch Netflix® or listen to music. Many patients fall asleep. Opalescence Boost® contains potassium nitrate and fluoride which have been shown to reduce sensitivity while strengthening enamel.
Brighten Your Smile at Westerville Dental Associates
If you want to reduce stains and enjoy a brighter smile, Westerville Dental Associates can help you explore professional teeth whitening options. Call 614-882-1135 to schedule an appointment and discuss whether Opalescence Boost® or professional take-home whitening is right for you.
