Over time, our teeth become discolored or stained. Professional teeth whitening is a fast and effective way to accomplish a fresh, youthful smile. Laser whitening is done in the office in as little as 20 minutes with little or no sensitivity. We apply a whitening gel to the teeth and activate it with a laser. Patients notice significant results immediately after the procedure. Custom trays may be fitted to your teeth and worn at home for a few hours at a time for maximum whitening or future touch-ups.
A bright smile is often seen as a sign of good health and confidence. However, teeth can become stained or discolored over time due to various factors such as diet, smoking, and aging. Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can help restore the natural brightness of your smile. At Mohr Smiles, we offer several teeth whitening options to suit the needs of our Tucson, AZ, patients.
Professional Teeth Whitening
We have several whitening options for our patients. We want to make their cosmetic choices as simple as possible.
In-office Whitening Procedures
One of the most effective ways to achieve a brighter smile is through in-office whitening procedures. These treatments are performed under the supervision of a dental professional and use stronger whitening agents than over-the-counter products. The main benefits of professional whitening include faster results and a more even distribution of the whitening product. During the procedure, Dr. Mohr applies a whitening gel to your teeth and uses a Waterlase laser to activate the gel. The entire process usually takes about an hour, and you can see immediate results.
Take-home Whitening Kits
If you prefer to whiten your teeth at your own convenience, Dr. Mohr also offers take-home whitening kits. These kits include custom-fitted trays and a professional-grade whitening gel. To use the kit, you simply fill the trays with the gel and wear them for a specified amount of time each day, usually for a couple of weeks. The custom trays ensure that the gel covers your teeth evenly, providing a consistent whitening effect.
Over-the-Counter Whitening Products
There are many over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products available, each with varying degrees of effectiveness. Whitening toothpastes are a common choice. Many people use them as part of their daily oral hygiene routine. These toothpastes contain mild abrasives that help remove surface stains. Another popular option is whitening strips, which are thin, flexible plastic strips coated with a peroxide-based whitening gel. You apply the strips to your teeth and leave them on for a specified amount of time, usually about 30 minutes.
Comparing OTC Options with Professional Treatments
While OTC whitening products can be convenient and less expensive, they typically offer less dramatic results compared to professional treatments. The main difference lies in the concentration of the whitening agents used. Professional treatments contain higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which can achieve more significant whitening in a shorter period. Additionally, professional treatments meet your specific dental needs, ensuring a more consistent and safer whitening process.
Maintenance and Aftercare
Maintaining your newly whitened smile requires some effort. Dr. Jennifer Mohr recommends regular dental check-ups and cleanings to keep your teeth in optimal condition. At home, brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using a whitening toothpaste can help prolong your results. It’s also important to follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by your dentist.
Foods and Habits to Avoid Post-Whitening
Certain foods and habits can cause your teeth to become discolored again. To maintain your bright smile, try to avoid foods and beverages that can stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored berries. Smoking is another major cause of tooth discoloration, so quitting smoking can help maintain your whitening results. By making these small lifestyle changes, you can enjoy a brighter smile for a longer time.