Do you have stained or discolored teeth? Are you looking for a treatment that can immediately brighten your smile?
At Seaside Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer professional teeth whitening treatment to brighten our patient’s smiles. There are multiple common causes of tooth discoloration, including beverages such as coffee, tea, wine, and soda. These beverages contain pigmented molecules called chromogens that attach to the enamel.
Certain medications, illnesses, improper oral hygiene, smoking, and tobacco use also cause the tooth enamel to look yellowed or discolored. Visiting Dr. Lauren Francis for cosmetic dental treatment can remove stains caused by these conditions.
Teeth Whitening in Hampstead, NC
Professional teeth whitening is typically a take-home treatment. Take-home whitening treatments consist of a kit that includes a custom mouthpiece, whitening gel, and curing light.
We can provide alternatives if you have single or multiple discolored teeth. Sometimes patients have severe tooth stains that do not react well to whitening. Porcelain veneers and dental bonding are great for patients who want a brighter smile fast. Veneers cover the front of teeth and tooth bonding can be molded onto the affected tooth.
Dental crowns can also address discolored teeth. Crowns fully cover teeth and can also protect weakened teeth from further damage.
Teeth Whitening FAQS
Read answers to common questions our office often receives from patients about professional teeth whitening treatments:
How does professional teeth whitening compare to over-the-counter options?
Whitening strips, toothpaste, and gels are often not as effective as professional whitening treatments. Our high-quality, professional teeth whitening treatment contains active whitening concentrate formulated to address tooth sensitivity.
What options do I have for professional teeth whitening?
At our office, we offer take-home whitening treatments. Take-home teeth whitening is a more gradual process.
Custom bleaching trays are made from molds of your teeth. We give you these trays and professional-grade whitening gel to go in them. They’re worn for a few hours each evening for a period of a few weeks.
Will teeth whitening treatment cause my teeth to be more sensitive?
Tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of teeth whitening treatment. Dr. Francis or a member of her trusted dental team will supervise your teeth whitening treatment to ensure your comfort throughout.
How long does whitening last?
Professional whitening treatments typically last six to twelve months. Take-home touch-ups help extend your results. Avoiding pigmented foods and beverages as well as abstaining from smoking or using tobacco products also keeps the teeth white and bright. Remember to schedule biannual checkups so we can clean your teeth and keep track of your progress.
How many shades whiter can my teeth get?
On average, your teeth can usually get about three to seven shades whiter. Everyone has different teeth and the results of professional whitening are different for everyone. Teeth can become up to nine or ten shades whiter with the best conditions and results.
How long does it take for me to see the full results of professional whitening?
You should see full results from take-home whitening in about two to three weeks.
Am I an ideal candidate for professional teeth whitening?
With any of our cosmetic treatments, we have a cosmetic consultation first. We’ll do a full oral exam and talk to you about your budget and cosmetic goals for your smile. There are some stains and conditions where professional whitening isn’t effective. We’ll determine if whitening is the right choice for you. We offer options like dental bonding and porcelain veneers to whiten your smile if whitening isn’t a great option for your specific case.
How often can I get my teeth whitened?
It’s recommended that you limit professional teeth whitening treatments to once or twice a year. Even with professional gel and precautions taken, too frequent whitening can cause you to have sensitivity in your teeth. Too much teeth whitening can also make your teeth look unnaturally white and unnerving when you smile.
Schedule a Dental Appointment
Want a brighter smile? Are you tired of ineffective whitening products? Contact us at 910-335-4392 or request a dental consultation with Dr. Francis and her team online. Please let our dental team know if you have any more questions about teeth whitening treatment. We will be happy to help. Seaside Family and Cosmetic Dentistry serve patients in Hampstead, Wilmington, and the surrounding area.