A bright, white smile boosts self-confidence and can make a great first impression in social and professional settings. Unfortunately, over time, coffee, tea, wine, red fruits, smoking, and aging can cause teeth to become discolored.
If you're looking for a way to restore your smile's brilliance, professional teeth whitening in Seattle offers safe and practical solutions to return the wattage to your smile!
Professional Teeth Whitening Options in West Seattle
There are several methods for whitening teeth, ranging from over-the-counter products (whitening strips or toothpaste) to professional treatments. Professional whitening is the fastest and most effective method, providing noticeable results. The two main options within this category are:
- In-office whitening — Performed by a dentist using high-concentration bleaching agents accelerated by (often) LED or laser light, in-office whitening can lighten teeth several shades in about an hour.
- Take-home whitening kits — Custom trays and professional-grade whitening gel provided by your dentist allow you to whiten your teeth at home over a couple of weeks with more gradual results.
Your West Seattle dentist offers KöR teeth whitening and Opalescence teeth whitening.
What to Expect from the Teeth Whitening Process
For in-office treatments, your dentist or hygienist will first apply a barrier to protect your gums before applying the whitening gel. Once the gel is in place, a specialized light may be used to activate and accelerate the process. After the treatment, you will see immediate results, though some patients may experience mild sensitivity for a brief period afterward.
At-home whitening requires wearing trays filled with gel for a set period each day. While results take longer to develop, they are still highly effective with consistent application as recommended by your dentist.
Maintaining Your White Smile Post-Whitening
To keep your teeth bright after whitening treatments:
- Brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup.
- Be cautious when consuming stain-causing foods and drinks like coffee, red wine, and dark berries.
- Avoid tobacco products.
- Touch up with professional whitening treatments as recommended by your dentist.
Finding the Best Seattle Teeth Whitening Dentist
If you’re looking for a cosmetic dentist in West Seattle to safely and effectively elevate your smile to its youthful and brilliant best, contact Dr. Tamara Holliday and the friendly and knowledgeable Holliday Dental Wellness team today to schedule a consultation!