At Dr. Rick Dentistry, we offer professional teeth whitening to lift stubborn teeth stains and discoloration, revealing a smile several shades whiter in a single office visit. Dr. Rick and his team have put together a guide outlining the dos and don’ts of teeth whitening to help you achieve your brightest smile safely and effectively. We look forward to getting you on track to a smile you love.

What Is Teeth Whitening and Does It Work?

Over time, the natural aging process, dark foods and beverages such as coffee, wine, and berries, and using tobacco products can leave your smile looking dull and discolored. Professional teeth whitening involves the use of professional-grade carbamide or hydrogen peroxide gel to break down deep-set stains, revealing a dazzling smile.

Professional whitening is highly effective for most patients, particularly those with yellowish discoloration. If, however, you have grayish or brownish stains resulting from trauma or medication, your teeth may not show the desired results. If you are not a candidate for professional whitening treatments, Dr. Rick may recommend an alternative cosmetic dentistry solution, such as cosmetic bonding or porcelain veneers.

What Can You Expect with In-Office Professional Whitening?

At Dr. Rick Dentistry, we use professional-grade whitening agents that penetrate into the inner layers of your teeth, breaking down the stains at their source. During your visit, Dr. Rick will protect your gums with a shield before applying the whitening gel and activating it with a special laser to effectively lift stubborn stains. He will conclude your treatment with a fluoride application to strengthen your teeth and gums. Just one office visit can leave you with a stunning smile transformation.

The Dos and Don’ts of Teeth Whitening

Here is a look at what you should and shouldn’t do to achieve the safest and most effective teeth whitening results:

Teeth Whitening Dos: 

• Before considering teeth whitening treatments, talk to our team at Dr. Rick Dentistry to ensure you achieve the safest and most effective results.
• Make sure to brush and floss regularly to remove plaque from your teeth and gumline, prevent it from hardening and dulling your smile.
• Drink plenty of water to flush away food debris and bacteria, neutralize acids, and lower your risk of dry mouth, helping keep your smile bright.
• Snack on crunchy fruits and veggies, rather than sugary or acidic treats, because these healthy options act like nature’s toothbrushes, keeping your smile clean and bright.
• Keep up with your twice-yearly dental cleanings to remove plaque, tartar, and surface tooth stains, helping maintain a bright smile.
• You may require occasional touch-up whitening treatments to help maintain your smile’s natural sparkle.

Teeth Whitening Don’ts:

• Avoid using over-the-counter or do-it-yourself whitening kits, as they often contain harsh chemicals and come with one-size-fits-all delivery systems that can leave you with tooth sensitivity and gum damage.
• Do not overuse whitening strips or gels, as this can cause enamel damage and severe sensitivity.
• Limit dark foods and beverages that can stain your teeth once again, and if you must have a favorite dish, rinse with water right after to prevent new stains from setting.
• Steer clear of smoking or using tobacco products to safeguard your health and also prevent new staining.
• If you experience tooth sensitivity during or after whitening, let our team at Dr. Rick Dentistry know, so we can provide guidance to safeguard your smile.

Teeth Whitening Near Me in Scottsdale, AZ

Contact Dr. Rick Dentistry to learn more about transforming your smile with professional teeth whitening. Dr. Rick will recommend the most conservative cosmetic dentistry solutions to deliver your brightest smile. We invite you to call our Scottsdale practice at 480-585-4244 to schedule your appointment or request one online today.