Have you tried over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments with minimal results? You can erase years of stains and yellowing with one of our premier whitening treatments. We offer in-office and take-home options using professional Zoom and Opalescence™ teeth whitening in our Washington, DC, office.
At Dupont Dental, we work with patients to find the correct teeth whitening treatment for their needs, considering their tooth sensitivity and the cause of their discoloration. Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment that can lift tooth stains and create brighter smiles.
What Causes Tooth Discoloration?
There can be multiple common causes of discolored and yellowed teeth:
- Foods and Drinks: Berries, coffee, wine, tea, tomatoes, and other foods and beverages can dye the tooth enamel. Coffee and tea are rich in tannins, which can also contribute to staining. Red wine contains both chromogens and tannins. Tomatoes, especially when used in sauces or juices, have natural acids and pigments that can impact the color of your teeth.
- Tobacco Products: Nicotine, which is found in tobacco products, can seep into the enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Over time, this can cause your teeth to develop a brownish or yellowish tint. The tar in cigarettes can also add to these stains, making them more noticeable. While vape pens might not contain tar, they still have nicotine and other chemicals that stain.
- Medications: Antihistamines, antipsychotics, and other medications can have tooth discoloration as a side effect. Some drugs might lead to staining or a change in the tooth’s surface. Others may reduce the flow of saliva, which helps keep your teeth clean and can lead to discoloration.
- Injuries: Tooth wear, fractures, or chips and cracks in the teeth can affect the pulp within the tooth and create a discolored look. Injuries to the outer tooth layer, or enamel, expose dentin, the underlayer. Dentin is a darker shade than your enamel, which means it can make your teeth appear darker.
Teeth Whitening Treatment in Washington, DC
We offer two different types of teeth whitening treatments for patients who want either in-office or take-home care:
Zoom Teeth Whitening
Our Zoom in-office whitening system can brighten your smile by six to eight shades within one hour. When you visit our office for Zoom treatment, we will isolate the teeth and cover the gums to minimize sensitivity. Then, we will apply whitening gel evenly to each tooth.
We use light to activate the ingredients in the whitening gel, allowing hydrogen peroxide and other active ingredients to penetrate the teeth. After about fifteen minutes, we remove the gel and repeat the process. We can repeat this process twice until you receive your desired results. Because Zoom whitening delivers quick results, it’s an excellent option for patients attending special events.
Opalescence Teeth Whitening
The Opalescence teeth whitening system offers a convenient way for patients to whiten their smiles at home. During a visit to our office, we will take dental impressions to ensure that the tray conforms to your teeth. Then, we will fit you with a comfortable, custom-made whitening tray and provide whitening gel.
At home, you will evenly fill the tray with whitening gel and wear the tray while you sleep. Opalescence delivers the choice of five different concentrations of active ingredients for the whitening gel, which makes treatment ideal for patients with tooth sensitivity.
Alternatives to Teeth Whitening
We offer other cosmetic options to whiten teeth if you have deep tooth stains or discolored teeth because of dental injuries. Materials like porcelain or composite resin can improve the color and shape of your teeth. Dental veneers are a great choice if you have stubborn stains or if you want to correct uneven or chipped teeth.
Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin to your teeth to improve their appearance. We shape and polish the resin to match the natural look of your teeth. Bonding can fix minor imperfections. It offers a quicker and less expensive option compared to veneers.
How to Keep Teeth White
After you get your teeth whitened, you want to maintain your results. After whitening treatment, you should:
- Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks: Avoid foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries. If you do consume them, ensure you also drink water and clean your teeth afterward. Water will help rinse away any lingering pigments and acids from your mouth. Brushing your teeth removes residue and prevents the pigments from settling into your enamel.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily with a whitening toothpaste to help remove stains and keep your teeth clean. Don’t forget to floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth. Brushing and flossing twice a day is essential to keep teeth bright.
- Use a Straw: When drinking beverages that can stain your teeth, use a straw. This helps the liquid bypass your teeth and reduces the chance of staining. When staining compounds have less contact with the surface of your teeth, it can significantly reduce the risk of stains.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking can cause your teeth to become yellow and stain over time. Quitting smoking will not only help keep your teeth white but also improve your overall oral health. When you stop using tobacco products, you also help reduce your risk of oral cancer and gum disease.
- Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit our dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. Removing plaque and tartar from your teeth can help keep your teeth bright. At these visits, our dentist can also offer advice on how to maintain your whitening results.
- Touch-Up Treatments: If needed, consider getting touch-up treatments. Our dentist can recommend how often you might need them to keep your teeth looking bright. The right schedule for you can ensure your results last.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of the most frequently asked questions concerning teeth whitening treatments.
How long after teeth whitening can I eat normally?
You can eat normally for about 24 to 48 hours after teeth whitening. During this time, avoid staining foods and drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine, as your teeth are more porous and prone to discoloration. After this period, you can resume your regular diet.
Should I get my teeth cleaned before whitening?
Yes, getting a teeth cleaning before whitening ensures better results. Cleanings remove plaque and tartar that can block the whitening agent from evenly penetrating your teeth. This step helps achieve more effective and uniform whitening.
Does teeth whitening remove plaque?
No, teeth whitening does not remove plaque. Whitening treatments focus on changing the color of your teeth by bleaching stains, but they don’t actually clean or eliminate plaque buildup. To remove plaque, you’ll need to brush, floss, and get professional dental cleanings.
Will teeth whitening work on fillings?
Teeth whitening does not work on fillings or other restorations like crowns or veneers. The whitening agents only affect natural tooth enamel. If fillings appear discolored after whitening, they may need replacement to match your brighter teeth.
Can you use teeth whitening strips with Invisalign?
You shouldn’t use whitening strips while wearing Invisalign aligners. Strips won’t adhere properly, and the aligners can trap whitening gel, leading to uneven results. Instead, consult your dentist about whitening solutions designed for aligner users.
How many shades does in-office teeth whitening whiten?
In-office teeth whitening can lighten your teeth by 3 to 8 shades in a single session. The exact result depends on the starting color of your teeth and the type of stains. Professional whitening offers the most noticeable and immediate improvement.
Whiten Your Smile
Do you have dull or discolored teeth? Brighten your smile with in-office or take-home teeth whitening treatment in Washington, DC. Call Dupont Dental for a brighter smile today at (202) 946-4720.
You can also schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Banks online. If you have questions about whitening treatment, please let Dr. Banks know; he will gladly assist you.