Are you unhappy with the shade of your teeth? You can make your smile “pop” by brightening your teeth with whitening services. A few improvements in the shade of white can go a long way to give you the dazzling smile you want. Advanced Laser & Cosmetic Dentistry provides teeth whitening in Crystal Lake, IL, and Carpentersville, IL, as one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments for enhancing the brightness of your smile.
If you’re interested in teeth whitening but would prefer the “at the dental office” option, please get in touch with us to schedule a free consultation. Our specialists will explain in detail how the “in-office” option works and whether home or in-office tooth whitening is best for you.
What Is Professional Teeth Whitening?
Professional tooth whitening is a dental procedure designed to lighten the color of your teeth. Our dentist uses bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These agents penetrate the enamel to break down stains and discoloration. The result is a brighter, whiter smile that can significantly boost your confidence.
Professional whitening is different from over-the-counter whitening products. Store-bought kits may seem convenient, but they often lack the strength and effectiveness of professional treatments. Cosmetic dentists have access to higher concentrations of bleaching agents, which can yield better results. Professional supervision also ensures the procedure is safe and tailored to your specific needs.
Why Choose Professional Teeth Whitening?
Choosing professional teeth whitening over store-bought options offers many advantages. The benefits of teeth whitening in our Carpentersville, IL, and Crystal Lake, IL dental office include:
- Better and Longer-Lasting Results: Professional whitening can make your teeth several shades whiter in just one visit. The results are more noticeable and last longer than over-the-counter whitening strips or toothpaste. With good oral care, your whiter smile can last for months or even years.
- Customized Care: Not everyone’s teeth are the same. Your dentist will look at your teeth and talk to you about your goals. They can adjust the strength of the whitening gel and focus on areas that are more stained or sensitive. This means you’ll get the best results possible for your unique smile.
- Safe and Comfortable Experience: Professional whitening is much safer. Our dentist will protect your gums and soft tissues during the process to help prevent irritation or damage. Professional whitening is a great option if you have sensitive teeth.
- Fast Results: Store-bought whitening kits can take weeks before you see a difference. With professional whitening, you can walk out of the office with a noticeably whiter smile after just one office visit. It’s a great option if you’re getting ready for a wedding, job interview, or any special event.
You can meet with us before treatment so we can review your options. We may also need to ensure you’re in good oral health before your care. We can provide treatments for cavities or gum disease before cosmetic dental care.
The Teeth Whitening Process
Professional teeth whitening involves several steps for the best whitening results. Our team will customize treatment to your needs. We’ll also make sure you’re comfortable during the process.
Consultation
The first step is a consultation with our experienced cosmetic dentists. During this visit, we examine your teeth and gums to determine if you are a good candidate for teeth whitening. We also encourage you to discuss your goals. Our team will first treat dental issues, such as cavities or gum disease, which could affect the whitening process. Then we can create a phased approach to these problems before cosmetic treatment.
Preparation
Once we determine you’re a good candidate, we’ll prepare your mouth for the whitening procedure. This involves a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar. A clean surface allows the whitening agent to work more effectively. We also take steps to protect your gums and lips. We’ll use a protective gel or a rubber shield to cover these areas and minimize the risk of irritation.
Application
The next step is to apply the whitening agent to your teeth. This is typically done using a special brush or a custom-fitted tray. The agent contains hydrogen peroxide that breaks down stains on your enamel. The whitening agent will remain on your teeth between 15 and 30 minutes.
Rinsing and Final Touches
After the whitening agent has done its job, we will rinse your mouth to remove any residue. We may repeat the application process two more times. Finally, our dentist will evaluate the results to ensure your satisfaction. We’ll also provide you with aftercare instructions to help maintain your newly whitened smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dental service. Learn more with answers to common questions about teeth whitening in Crystal Lake and Carpentersville, IL.
How long does professional teeth whitening last?
The results of professional teeth whitening usually last from six months to two years. How long your smile stays bright depends on your daily habits, how well you care for your teeth, and the type of whitening treatment you had.
- To keep your smile looking great:
- Brush and floss every day.
- Avoid foods and drinks that stain your teeth, like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries.
- Don’t smoke, as it can quickly stain your teeth.
- Ask our dentist about touch-up treatments if you notice your teeth starting to fade.
Keeping up with healthy habits after teeth whitening can make a large difference in how long your smile stays bright. These simple steps not only help your teeth stay white, but also keep your mouth healthy. You can enjoy the results of your whitening treatment for a longer time when you stick to these good habits.
Is professional teeth whitening safe?
Professional teeth whitening is considered safe when performed by a licensed dentist. Our office uses high-quality whitening agents that are carefully applied to minimize risk and discomfort. While you may feel side effects like tooth sensitivity, they are usually temporary and resolve shortly after the procedure. Our dentist will also assess your teeth and gums before treatment to ensure it’s right for you.
How long does it take to see results from professional teeth whitening?
You can get results from teeth whitening after one session, which can take between 30 minutes and an hour. Some people may notice a brighter smile right after the procedure, while others may require a follow-up session for the best results. We’ll assess your progress and determine if you need more treatment.
Can professional teeth whitening work on crowns or veneers?
No, professional teeth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel. Crowns, veneers, and other dental restorations don’t respond to whitening agents in the same way as natural teeth. We recommend replacing old and stained restorations first. Then we can whiten your natural teeth.
How often can I have professional teeth whitening?
How often you need tooth whitening treatment depends on your needs and treatment type. You can get in-office treatment every six months to a year, while at-home whitening trays can be used more frequently. Our dentist will recommend the right schedule based on your goals and the condition of your teeth. Over-whitening can cause damage to the enamel, so you want to follow our dentist’s guidance.
Can professional teeth whitening remove all stains?
Professional tooth whitening removes most stains caused by foods, drinks, or tobacco. But it may not be effective for intrinsic stains, or stains within your tooth. Dr. Patel will evaluate the type of stains on your teeth and recommend the best approach. In some cases, you may need treatments like veneers or dental bonding to treat stubborn stains.
Request a Consultation
Lift tooth stains for a brighter look. Call our Carpentersville, IL office at 224-701-3052 or our Crystal Lake, IL dental office at 779-244-6264. You can also request an appointment with us online. We’re here to help you meet your cosmetic goals.