Teeth whitening is the most requested cosmetic dental procedure worldwide — and for good reason. A brighter smile creates an immediate, noticeable improvement in appearance that studies consistently show boosts confidence and social perception.
How Whitening Works
Your appointment begins with an assessment and baseline photo. A protective barrier is applied to shield the gums and soft tissues. The whitening gel — a carefully formulated hydrogen peroxide solution — is applied to the tooth surfaces and activated by the LED light. We complete three 15-minute cycles in a single sitting, checking progress between each cycle. After the final cycle, a post-whitening fluoride treatment is applied to reduce sensitivity.
Take-Home Maintenance Trays
Every in-office whitening patient receives custom-fitted take-home trays and professional whitening gel for ongoing maintenance. Unlike off-the-shelf trays, custom trays fit precisely, ensuring even gel distribution with no gum irritation. Most patients use their take-home trays for one to two nights every few months to maintain results.
Managing Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity during and after whitening is common and temporary. We apply a desensitizing agent at the end of each in-office session. If you have a history of sensitivity, we can prescribe a pre-treatment protocol using potassium nitrate gel in your custom trays for one week prior to the appointment.
Longevity & Touch-Ups
Professional whitening results typically last 1–3 years, depending on diet and lifestyle. Avoiding dark-colored beverages (coffee, red wine, cola) immediately after whitening and using a whitening toothpaste for daily maintenance significantly extends results.