Our teeth whitening treatment in Chicago, Illinois, is a safe and effective way to remove stains and discolorations from your teeth, resulting in a brighter, more attractive smile. The treatment involves the application of a prescription-strength whitening gel to your teeth. As you relax in our office, the gel works to break down stubborn stains and brighten your teeth by several shades. Experience the benefits of expert teeth whitening services and achieve the smile you've always wanted.
A sparkling white smile is not just associated with dental health; it is also viewed as an important asset in terms of an individual’s self-esteem, social interaction, and career success. Not everyone is lucky enough to have naturally beautiful pearly whites. However, thanks to developments in the area of cosmetic dentistry over the past few decades, less-than-perfect smiles can be dramatically improved. Among the most sought-after and popular dental cosmetic treatments available today is teeth whitening.
Our dental practice offers a convenient, one-hour teeth whitening treatment to help you achieve the brighter, more radiant smile you've always wanted. Our trained staff uses a patient-friendly, prescription-strength gel to whiten your teeth while you relax in our comfortable office setting. Whether you're preparing for a special event or simply want to boost your confidence, our professional teeth whitening treatment can help you achieve your goals.
There are two major groups of teeth whitening products:
These products and procedures can be dispensed, managed, and supervised by your dentist, or independently purchased over-the-counter products that you self-direct.
Although over-the-counter teeth whitening systems purchased in stores or online have become popular, there are health concerns and limitations with these products. Teeth whitening products can damage the teeth and soft tissue in the mouth, and without professional monitoring, they can be easily misused or abused. While some over-the-counter products may work when healthy teeth and gums are present, they can be ineffective or problematic when sensitive teeth, exposed roots, cavities, broken fillings, cracked teeth, or loose dental work are present. As a rule, the healthiest and most effective methods of teeth whitening are the ones managed and supervised by your tooth doctor.
An in-office teeth whitening procedure by your dentist is the best and safest way to get the maximum results immediately. In as little as one hour a professional strength in-office whitening system can give you a more pleasing smile with teeth that are several shades whiter than their original shade. Under the careful supervision of your dentist the surrounding soft tissues, gums, as well as any sensitive areas of the teeth are carefully isolated and protected from the effects of the bleaching agents.
A home whitening system from your dentist, along with custom trays that have been fitted to your teeth, is also an excellent option. The trays fabricated by your dental care provider help to keep the bleaching agents in maximum contact with the teeth and away from the other areas of your mouth. Performing a home teeth whitening is a more subtle and gradual process. Maximum results are less rapid than an in-office procedure and are typically achieved over a longer period of time. In certain instances, an at-home whitening system may be recommended by your dentist as a follow-up regimen to the in-office procedure to perfect or maintain your results.
To maintain your newly whitened smile, avoid consuming foods and beverages that are known to stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored fruits and vegetables, for at least 48 hours after your treatment. Brush your teeth twice a day with whitening toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent new stains from forming. Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings to keep your teeth healthy and bright. Touch-up whitening treatments may be necessary every 6-12 months to maintain your results.
Yes, yellow teeth can become white again through various methods, such as professional dental treatments or at-home whitening kits. Professional treatments usually offer the fastest and most effective whitening results. It's best to consult with a cosmetic dentist to determine the most suitable whitening process for your needs and to ensure a brighter smile safely.
Teeth whitening or bleaching simply refers to any process that will make the teeth appear whiter. The options for teeth whitening run the gamut from over-the-counter toothpastes, rinses, strips, or gels to professionally supervised in-office and take-home procedures. There are in fact so many products on the market addressing teeth that are stained or discolored, that the choices can be both confusing and overwhelming. This is why it is a good idea to speak with your dental care provider when considering teeth whitening. He or she can explain how each product works and if it is safe and appropriate for your situation.
How white a tooth looks is determined by how light is reflected and scattered off the enamel, the outermost layer of the tooth. Teeth can appear dark or discolored for any number of reasons. An imperfect appearance can be the result of either surface stains or discolorations inside of the tooth. While external tooth discoloration is typically due to certain foods and tobacco, internal tooth discoloration is mainly the result of genetics, certain medications, tooth decay, restorations, and trauma. Aging also plays a big role in tooth color. This is because, over time the outer layer of enamel becomes thinner, allowing more influence on tooth appearance by the inner layer of yellowish dentin.
How long your teeth whitening lasts depends on your lifestyle. Your eating, drinking, and smoking habits can have a big impact on maintaining your results. Of course, the best way to ensure that your smile stays healthy and beautiful is a good daily oral healthcare regimen along with regular dental checkups and cleanings.
When performed by a trained dental professional, teeth whitening is a safe and effective treatment with minimal side effects. Some patients may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation, which usually subsides within a few days.
Most patients can expect their teeth to become 2-8 shades whiter after a professional teeth whitening treatment, depending on the severity of their initial discoloration and other individual factors.