Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening provides an affordable and effective way to transform your smile. At Smiles for Maple Valley, in Maple Valley, Washington, Narges Lotfi, DDS, offers teeth whitening to teens and adults. A single visit can make your smile up to four shades lighter. To request a teeth whitening consultation, call the office today or book online.

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening uses FDA-approved solutions, like hydrogen peroxide gel, to remove stains from the surfaces of your teeth. 

When applied to your teeth, hydrogen peroxide infiltrates the enamel, oxidizing the molecules within. The oxidation process affects the way light reflects off your teeth, making your smile appear significantly whiter.

Why do teeth change color?

All people experience tooth discoloration because of the aging process. Routine motions, like biting and chewing, wear down your enamel, revealing more of the yellow dentin underneath. 

Other factors that may cause tooth stains include:

• Using tobacco
• Taking certain prescription medications
• Drinking beverages like coffee or cola
• Eating certain foods, like tomato-based sauces

You’re also more likely to develop tooth stains because of poor oral hygiene. 

What does teeth whitening involve?

Smiles for Maple Valley provides in-office chairside teeth whitening.

Your provider reviews your dental records, asks about your treatment goals, and completes an oral exam. Next, they cover your gums and tongue with a protective dam and apply a special tooth whitening gel to the surfaces of your teeth.

Your teeth absorb the gel for between 20-30 minutes. Then, your provider points a light at them, triggering a whitening reaction. Sometimes, a single treatment makes a significant improvement. However, if you have deep stains, your provider might repeat the same steps multiple times.

How long will the results of teeth whitening last?

The results of teeth whitening treatment last between four and six months on average, but you can extend them by practicing good oral hygiene. Smiles for Maple Valley recommends brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting the office every six months for an oral exam and preventive teeth cleaning.

You can also prevent stains by quitting tobacco and drinking dark beverages, like coffee, with a straw.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Professional teeth whitening is safe and usually well-tolerated. After treatment, you might experience some tooth and gum sensitivity for a day or two. Follow your provider’s recovery instructions and brush more gently than usual. Your mouth should feel fine within 48 hours, but if your symptoms persist, contact Smiles for Maple Valley.

To see if you can benefit from teeth whitening, call Smiles for Maple Valley or book online today. 

*Individual results may vary.