Teeth whitening is a simple and non-invasive dental treatment that changes the color of tooth enamel to improve your smile. Teeth whitening is ideal if you have healthy, unrestored teeth and gums. Teeth with yellow tones respond best to whitening treatment.
According to a recent survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, “close to one in two (48%) people believe that a smile is the most memorable feature after first meeting someone—more so than the first thing a person says (25%).” That same survey also found that “more than a third of respondents view people with a flawed smile to be less attractive (37%) and less confident (25%) than those with perfect teeth.” Smiles make a lasting impression and a bright, white, beautiful smile won’t be forgotten. People seem to agree—nothing beats a beautiful smile!
Why do teeth turn yellow?
Your teeth may become stained over time even if you are on top of your oral care routine. Here are the most common reasons for your teeth to yellow over time:
- Consumption of acidic drinks such as coffee, tea, wine, soda.
- Smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products.
- Thinning tooth enamel that shows the dentin layer underneath.
- Use of certain antibiotics or excessive exposure to fluoride during childhood.
- Aging also plays a factor as the above conditions can worsen with time.
How to brighten your teeth?
First, start with practicing a good oral hygiene routine. This will not only help prevent dental problems such as gum disease and tooth decay, but will also help prevent plaque or tartar from building up.
Second, avoid foods known to stain your teeth such as red wine, berries, and coffee. If you do consume those foods, brush your teeth shortly after.
Third, if you have healthy, unrestored teeth (no fillings), consider getting teeth whitening treatments either at home or at your dentist’s office. Some types of discoloration cannot be corrected by teeth whitening systems. Your dentist can help recommend the system that works best for you.
Teeth whitening options at Dental Innovations of Virginia
Whether you need professional teeth whitening results in the comfort of our own home, or instant results in the dental office, we have the best way to whiten your teeth. Dental Innovations of Virginia currently offers three teeth whitening options from Opalescence. With over 100 million smiles brightened and 30 years of experience, Opalescence Teeth Whitening is the global leader in professional teeth whitening.
Opalescence Go ™
Ready to go teeth whitening
Actual results from 10 days of Opalescence Go 10% whitening
Frequency of use: 1x day
for 10 days or until desired shade
Wear time:
30-60 mins. 10%
15-20 mins. 15%
% Hydrogen Peroxide
Cost: $
Application method: Universal UltraFit™ Tray
Varieties: Mint / Melon
Opalescence™ PF
Custom Tray Whitening
Actual results from 30 days of Opalescence PF 10% whitening
Frequency of use: 1x day
for 10 days or until desired shade
Wear time:
* 8-10 hrs / overnight 10%
* 4-6 hrs. 15%
* 2-4 hrs. 20%
* 30-60 mins. 35%
* 15-20 mins. 45%
% Carbamide Peroxide
Cost: $$
Application method: Custom-made Tray
Varieties: Regular / Mint / Melon
Opalescence™ Boost™
In-office Teeth Whitening
Actual results from 1hour treatment using Opalescence Boost
Frequency of use: 2 or 3
20-minute applications by a dental professional
Wear time:
About 1 hr
20 minutes per application by dental professional
Cost: $$$
Application method: Applied by Dental Professional
Opalescence Go™ – Ready to Go Teeth Whitening
Opalescence Go™ pre-filled whitening trays pair professional strength teeth whitening with unrivaled convenience! The innovative UltraFit™ tray easily conforms to any smile and is ready to use right out of the box. It’s fast, simple and effective.
Opalescence™ PF Custom Tray Whitening
With teeth whitening trays hand sculpted to fit your smile, Opalescence™ PF teeth whitening offers a customized professional teeth whitening experience in the comfort of your own home. Plus, five concentrations give you the flexibility to whiten when you want, day or night.
Opalescence™ Boost™ In-office Teeth Whitening
Opalescence™ Boost™ professional teeth whitening is applied by your dentist right in the dental office to give you a white smile fast! No hot or uncomfortable LED teeth whitening lights are necessary because it is chemically activated, and you’ll have a brighter smile with only two or three 20 minute treatments.
See also:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is teeth whitening for everyone?
Teeth whitening is a safe and non-invasive treatment to brighten your smile. However, composite fillings, crowns made of resin or ceramic/porcelain do not respond to whitening. People with gum disease, worn enamel, or cavities may not be good candidates for whitening. Your dentist can help you choose the whitening option that is best for you.
How does Opalescence™ teeth whitening work?
Teeth whitening is the removal of stains and discolorations from the enamel and dentin. The outer layer of the tooth is enamel, and beneath the enamel is dentin. Enamel is thin and typically much lighter in color, while dentin is darker in color and makes up the bulk of the tooth. Enamel can be discolored over time simply from age, but also from outside sources like coffee, tea, tobacco, and other foods and beverages. Also, as we age, our enamel thins, causing more dentin to show through, making the overall appearance of the tooth look darker.
Whitening your teeth removes these stains and discolorations, giving you a whiter, brighter smile. The active ingredients in Opalescence™ teeth whitening gels pass into your teeth to oxidize the discolored molecules deep down in your teeth, removing stains and whitening your smile. Opalescence’s original, patented formula contains PF (potassium nitrate and fluoride) for patient comfort and is sticky and viscous, so it stays where it’s placed. This unique feature prevents the teeth whitening gel from seeping out during treatment, ensuring both the gel and tray stay in place and work effectively for the duration of your treatment.
Are There Any Side Effects from Teeth Whitening?
A relatively common side effect from teeth whitening is tooth sensitivity. The sensitivity is often temporary and will go away after you have completed the whitening process.
If you do experience tooth sensitivity, there are ways to treat it using desensitizing toothpastes and gels. Consult with your dentist to determine the best treatment for your needs.
How long does it take to whiten teeth?
Every patient is different. People respond differently to whitening treatments and everyone will whiten at different rates. Yellow or brown teeth are easier to whiten than teeth that are gray-ish. Younger patients typically whiten more quickly than older patients.
How long do teeth whitening results last?
Teeth whitening can leave you with a stunning smile long after the whitening treatment is over. There are a few factors that can affect how long your treatment lasts. Genetics, diet, age, some medications (like tetracycline), and certain habits (like smoking) may affect the length of your whitening results. Fortunately, touch-up treatments are quick and easy, helping you get that bright, white smile back.
About DIVA/Contact
Dr. Joon Coe, Dr. Julie Coe, and the rest of the DIVA team look forward to helping you achieve a brighter smile and the highest possible dental health. Please call us if you have any questions about teeth whitening.
We’re located at 19490 Sandridge Way, Suite 160, Lansdowne, VA 20176. Our hours are Monday through Friday from 9 am to 6 pm. Contact us to schedule an appointment or ask us a question.
Dental Innovations of Virginia provides comprehensive dental services, and preventive dentistry for the whole family. In addition to our Lansdowne office serving the Leesburg, Lansdowne, Ashburn, Loudoun County areas, we also come to you via our DIVA Mobile Clinic service for patients living in long-term care facilities, and our DIVA Home Visit service for patients who prefer to receive treatments in the comfort of their own home.
