Nov
If whiter teeth and a brighter smile are your immediate goals, consider professional teeth whitening. Most people can achieve instant whitening results in one dental visit through in-office cosmetic dental whitening treatment. Unfortunately, not everyone is a viable candidate for teeth whitening. Learning more about whitening procedures will help you determine if this cosmetic treatment is right for you.
Here, your Aldie, Virginia dentists, Drs. Mallory Grossman, Kelly Lincoln, and Sanam Kheirieh from Stone Ridge Family Dentistry explore six interesting facts about teeth whitening you should be aware of before proceeding with this treatment:
Teeth whitening works best on stains caused by smoking and stain-causing food and drinks. This excludes stains caused by dental trauma or medication use. Teeth whitening should also be avoided if you have worn tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots, as the whitening solution’s ingredients can aggravate these conditions.
Professional whitening gives you optimal whitening results, free of stains and discolorations that mar your smile’s natural beauty. Dental professionals use high-grade whitening products and advanced whitening techniques to help you obtain your best smile. In-office whitening treatments are conducted within a controlled, hygienic dental environment to minimize oral and general health risks. Your treatment will also be tailored to meet your specific dental needs.
Dentists prioritize your safety when whitening your teeth to avoid accidental injury to your soft tissues or teeth. In addition to using safe products and techniques, we take precautions to protect your gums and cheeks during your procedure and control the timing of your treatment to minimize the risk of damaging your gums or teeth.
It’s normal to experience some sensitivity both during and after your treatment, as the whitening agent penetrates your enamel to break down stains inside the dentin of your teeth, triggering nerve endings within. Your teeth may be sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet food or drinks for a day or two following your procedure. This sensitivity is temporary and will cease within a few days.
Restorations like crowns, veneers, and implants can’t be whitened. If you have one or more dental restorations, we may recommend whitening your teeth to match the color of your restorations or matching your restorations to the new color of your smile using bonding or dental veneers.
How long does teeth whitening last? Well, the results aren’t permanent, but they can last up to a year or longer with good oral care. Good brushing and flossing habits, along with routine dental cleanings, can help you retain your smile’s brighter appearance. Avoiding smoking and stain-causing food and drinks will also go a long way towards keeping your smile whiter and brighter long-term.
To schedule a consultation for professional teeth whitening in Aldie, VA, contact Stone Ridge Family Dentistry at (703) 570-1356.
Dr. Mallory Grossman is a highly skilled and compassionate dentist known for her gentle and comprehensive approach to oral health. She graduated magna cum laude from Binghamton University in 2010 and earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine in 2014. Following a comprehensive General Practice Residency at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Dr. Grossman developed expertise in minimally invasive, esthetic, and functional dentistry. She is an active member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, Northern Virginia Dental Society, and Virginia Dental Association and continually enhances her skills through ongoing education.
