A radiant smile makes a lasting impression. Teeth whitening from Cheek Dental in Marietta is a fast, safe, and effective way to brighten and rejuvenate your smile.
Benefits of Teeth Whitening from a Dentist
There are plenty of online and over-the-counter products for whitening your teeth at home. So why would you choose to have your teeth whitened by one of our dentists?
- Individualized care – What’s best for someone else’s teeth might not be best for yours. Before whitening your teeth, one of our dentists will examine them to determine the cause of the stains. In some cases, bleaching gel will make stains more noticeable. Drs. Cheek or Chandler will anticipate the results of teeth whitening and decide if alternative cosmetic treatment will give you the best results.
- Limitations of over-the-counter and online products – Whitening toothpaste can be abrasive. If it helps at all, only surface stains will be removed. Whitening strips are ¼ to ½ the strength of the professional bleaching gel our dentists use. And it’s often difficult to assess the safety, contents, and effectiveness of online products.
- Predictable results – Our dentists use professional-strength gel that will penetrate your teeth and break down deeply embedded stains. The gel is so effective that your teeth will be whiter than their natural pigmentation. You’ll receive comfortable treatment and long-lasting results.
After whitening, we also widened this patient’s teeth slightly using porcelain veneers to give her the smile she’d always wanted.
Treatment Options
Dr. Cheek and Dr. Chandler offer in-office and take-home teeth whitening.
In-office
Zoom® in-office whitening will give you a brilliant smile in a single visit. You’ll sit in a comfortable dental chair for three or four 15-minute sessions as a powerful bleaching gel is applied to your teeth. In a little over an hour, your teeth will sparkle and be several shades lighter than when you arrived at our office. Visit our Zoom whitening page to learn more about this process.
Take-home
ZOOM® Take-home
We will take impressions of your mouth to make custom bleaching trays. The trays keep whitening gel away from your gums and sealed against your teeth for deep penetration. It’s easy.
- Each night, you’ll place a small amount of gel in the trays.
- Wear the trays for the amount of time specified.
- After two weeks, your smile will sparkle.
- You can continue treatment if you want your teeth even brighter.
Opalescence Go
Opalescence Go will brighten your smile. While it’s convenient and inexpensive, it’s not as effective as Zoom or traditional Opalescence whitening because it contains a lower concentration of bleaching gel. Instead of customized trays, you’ll receive a set of ten disposable prefilled trays.
- Each day, you’ll place a set of trays on your teeth.
- Suck down or swallow to loosen the outer tray from the inner tray.
- Remove the outer tray and swallow again to tighten the inner tray.
- Keep the trays on for 30 to 60 minutes.
- Remove the trays, throw them away, and brush your teeth.
- Continue the next day with the next set of trays.
During the ten-day treatment, you’ll notice your teeth getting brighter. If you want an even whiter smile, you can repeat the treatment with another set of trays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the differences between professional teeth whitening and over-the-counter products?
When it comes to achieving that dazzling white smile, the options can be overwhelming. Many people wonder about the real differences between professional teeth whitening and over-the-counter (OTC) products. The distinctions are significant and can greatly impact the results you achieve.
Professional teeth whitening, such as the services offered by Dr. Cristi Cheek at Cheek Dental in Marietta, GA, provides a level of customization and effectiveness that OTC products simply can’t match. Professional treatments use high-concentration bleaching agents that are only available through dental offices. These agents are more potent than what you’ll find in drugstore products, meaning they can remove deeper stains and provide more dramatic results.
Professional whitening is also tailored to your specific needs. Dr. Cheek can assess the condition of your teeth and gums, ensuring that the treatment is safe and effective for you. This personalized approach minimizes the risk of sensitivity and uneven whitening, common issues with OTC products.
On the other hand, over-the-counter products, such as whitening strips, gels, and toothpaste, offer convenience and affordability. However, they often contain lower concentrations of whitening agents, which means they may take longer to achieve noticeable results. Additionally, since these products are not customized, they may not address specific areas of discoloration effectively.
How long do the results of professional teeth whitening typically last?
The longevity of your teeth whitening results can vary based on several factors, including your lifestyle and oral hygiene habits. However, professional teeth whitening generally offers longer-lasting results compared to OTC alternatives.
After a professional whitening treatment at Cheek Dental, many patients enjoy a brighter smile for several months to a couple of years. The key to maintaining these results lies in your daily habits. Avoiding foods and beverages that stain, such as coffee, red wine, and tobacco, can help prolong the effects. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are also essential to keep your smile looking its best.
It’s important to note that while professional whitening can significantly lighten your teeth, it doesn’t make them immune to future staining. Touch-up treatments can help maintain your desired level of whiteness over time. Dr. Cheek can recommend a maintenance plan tailored to your needs, ensuring your smile stays radiant for as long as possible.
Is teeth whitening safe for sensitive teeth?
For individuals with sensitive teeth, the thought of teeth whitening can be daunting. However, professional teeth whitening is generally safe for sensitive teeth, especially when performed under the guidance of a skilled dentist like Dr. Cristi Cheek.
During a consultation at Cheek Dental, Dr. Cheek will assess your dental health and discuss any concerns you may have about sensitivity. She can recommend specific treatments that are gentle on sensitive teeth, ensuring your comfort throughout the process. Additionally, professional whitening products often contain desensitizing agents that help minimize discomfort.
It’s crucial to communicate any history of sensitivity with your dentist before undergoing whitening. This way, Dr. Cheek can tailor the treatment to your needs, using techniques and products that reduce the risk of exacerbating sensitivity.
What should I avoid eating or drinking after a teeth whitening treatment?
After investing in a professional teeth whitening treatment, it’s essential to make mindful choices to maintain your bright smile. Immediately following the procedure, your teeth are more porous and susceptible to staining, so avoiding certain foods and drinks is crucial.
For the first 24 to 48 hours after treatment, steer clear of dark-colored beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and cola. These drinks can quickly undo the whitening effects by staining the enamel. Instead, opt for water, milk, or clear beverages.
Similarly, avoid foods with strong pigments, such as berries, tomato sauce, and soy sauce. These can also contribute to discoloration. Stick to light-colored, non-acidic foods like chicken, rice, and pasta without heavy sauces.
It’s also wise to avoid tobacco products, as they are notorious for causing stubborn stains. By making these temporary dietary adjustments, you can ensure your teeth whitening results last longer and your smile remains brilliantly white.
Interested in Brightening Your Smile?
If you’re interested in reviving your smile with teeth whitening, call us or schedule an appointment online.