Professional teeth whitening removes stains and discoloration from the surface of the teeth using a high-concentration bleaching agent applied under controlled conditions. The results are significantly more dramatic and longer-lasting than over-the-counter whitening products, which use lower-concentration formulas and produce gradual, limited improvement at best.
Dentcare Now in Fairfax, Virginia offers professional in-office teeth whitening and custom take-home whitening trays. Contact us or walk in to schedule a whitening appointment.
What Causes Tooth Discoloration
Surface stains from coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco are the most common cause of gradual tooth darkening. These stains accumulate in the microscopic pores of the enamel over time. Aging also causes natural darkening as the outer enamel layer thins and the yellower dentin beneath shows through more prominently. Some discoloration is intrinsic, meaning it originates inside the tooth, and is caused by certain medications, excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development, or trauma. Intrinsic staining does not respond to bleaching and requires a different approach such as veneers or bonding.
In-Office Whitening
In-office whitening uses a high-concentration hydrogen peroxide gel applied directly to the teeth. The process takes approximately one hour and produces noticeable results in a single visit. It is the fastest way to whiten teeth and is a popular choice before a special event or for patients who want immediate results.
Take-Home Whitening Trays
Custom take-home trays are fabricated from impressions of your teeth and fit precisely over each tooth. A professional-strength whitening gel is dispensed into the trays and worn for a specified period each day, typically one to two hours, over a course of two to three weeks. Custom trays produce more even results than over-the-counter strips because the gel contacts every surface of every tooth uniformly. The trays are reusable and can be used with refill gel to touch up results in the future.
How Long Do Results Last
Whitening results are not permanent. Teeth will gradually restain with continued exposure to coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco. Most patients find that results last one to three years with good oral hygiene and periodic touch-ups. Avoiding heavily staining foods and beverages in the days immediately following treatment helps extend the initial results.
Is Whitening Safe for Everyone
Whitening is safe for most patients with healthy teeth and gums. Patients with active cavities or gum disease should have those treated before whitening. Whitening does not change the color of crowns, veneers, or composite bonding, so existing restorations may stand out after the natural teeth are whitened. We assess your teeth at the consultation to make sure whitening is appropriate and will produce the result you are expecting.
Why Choose Dentcare Now for Teeth Whitening in Fairfax, VA
Dentcare Now offers both in-office and custom take-home whitening options. We are open every day of the year and can begin whitening on the same day in most cases. We accept most major insurance and offer financing through CareCredit, Cherry, Affirm, Sunbit, LendingClub, and Alphaeon.
Book a whitening appointment at Dentcare Now in Fairfax, VA today.