Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure offered at Woodard Family Dentistry aimed at lightening the color of your teeth and removing stains and discoloration. It is one of the most sought-after treatments for enhancing the appearance of your smile. While there are various over-the-counter whitening products available, professional teeth whitening can provide superior results and is performed under the supervision of a dental expert.

Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening has numerous advantages over at-home whitening kits and other methods. Some of the key benefits include:

• Effective results: Professional teeth whitening can achieve significantly whiter teeth compared to over-the-counter products.
• Quick procedure: The treatment is relatively quick, often completed in a single visit, with immediate results.
• Customizable: The whitening process can be tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a uniform and natural-looking result.
• Safe and controlled: The procedure is performed under the supervision of a dental professional, minimizing risks and ensuring safety.
• Boosts confidence: A brighter smile can enhance your confidence and improve your overall appearance.

Causes of Tooth Discoloration

Understanding the causes of tooth discoloration can help you maintain a brighter smile. Some common factors contributing to stained or discolored teeth include:

• Food and beverages: Consuming coffee, tea, red wine, and certain foods can stain your teeth over time.
• Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can lead to significant tooth discoloration.
• Aging: As you age, the outer enamel layer of your teeth wears down, revealing the yellowish dentin beneath.
• Medications: Certain medications such as antibiotics and antihistamines can cause tooth discoloration.
• Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar, causing teeth to appear yellow.
• Trauma: Injury or trauma to the teeth can cause discoloration, especially if the inner pulp is damaged.

Types of Teeth Whitening

There are several types of teeth whitening treatments available, each with its own advantages. At Woodard Family Dentistry, we offer the following professional whitening options:

In-Office Teeth Whitening

In-office teeth whitening is the most effective and fastest way to achieve a brighter smile. The procedure is performed in the dental office under the supervision of Dr. Woodard. This method typically involves the application of a powerful whitening gel to the teeth, which is then activated using a special light or laser. The entire process usually takes about an hour, and patients can see results immediately.

Take-Home Whitening Kits

For patients who prefer to whiten their teeth in the comfort of their own homes, we offer custom take-home whitening kits. These kits include custom-fitted trays and a professional-grade whitening gel. Dr. Woodard will provide instructions on how to use the kit effectively. While take-home kits may take longer to achieve the desired results compared to in-office treatments, they are convenient for home use and can be used to maintain the results of in-office whitening.

Combination Whitening

Combination whitening involves a mix of in-office and take-home treatments. This approach allows for an initial boost in whitening with the in-office procedure, followed by maintenance and additional whitening at home. Combination whitening can provide optimal results and ensure long-lasting whiteness. Call us to learn more.

The Professional Teeth Whitening Procedure

The teeth whitening procedure at Woodard Family Dentistry is straightforward and designed to provide maximum comfort and results. Here is a step-by-step overview of what to expect:

Consultation and Assessment

The first step in the teeth whitening process is a consultation with Dr. Woodard. During this appointment, he will assess your oral health, discuss your whitening goals, and determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. This may involve a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, as well as taking photographs and possibly X-rays.

Pre-Treatment Preparation

Before the whitening treatment begins, Dr. Woodard will clean your teeth to remove any plaque or tartar buildup. This ensures that the whitening gel can penetrate the teeth evenly. He may also take impressions of your teeth to create custom-fitted trays if you opt for a take-home whitening kit.

Application of Whitening Gel

For in-office whitening, Dr. Woodard will apply a protective barrier to your gums to prevent irritation from the whitening gel. The whitening gel, which contains a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, is then applied to your teeth’s surface. A special light or laser may be used to activate the gel and enhance the whitening process.

Whitening Process

The whitening gel is left on your teeth for a specified amount of time, usually 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the desired level of whitening. During this time, you can relax and listen to music or watch TV. The gel may be reapplied several times during the session to achieve the best results.

Post-Treatment Care

After the whitening treatment, Dr. Woodard will remove the gel and protective barriers from your mouth. He will provide you with post-treatment instructions, including any dietary restrictions and tips for maintaining your newly whitened smile. You may experience some tooth sensitivity following the procedure, but this typically subsides within a few days.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Maintaining your bright smile after professional teeth whitening is essential to prolonging the results. Here are some tips to help you keep your teeth white and healthy:

• Good oral hygiene: Maintain good dental hygiene — brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent staining.
• Avoid staining foods and beverages: Limit your consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, and other staining substances. If you do consume them, rinse your mouth with water afterward.
• Use a straw: When drinking beverages that can stain your teeth, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
• Regular dental visits: Schedule regular checkups and cleanings with Dr. Woodard to maintain your oral health and catch any potential issues early.
• Touch-up treatments: Consider periodic touch-up treatments with take-home whitening kits to maintain your results.
• Avoid tobacco: Quit smoking or using tobacco products to prevent staining and improve your overall oral health.

Conclusion

A bright, white smile can significantly enhance your confidence and overall appearance. At Woodard Family Dentistry, Dr. Christopher S. Woodard, DMD, and our team are dedicated to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams through professional teeth whitening services. Whether you choose in-office whitening for immediate results or a take-home kit for convenience, we are here to provide you with the highest quality care and support.

Are you ready to experience top-quality dental care for your entire family? Visit Dr. Christopher S. Woodard, DMD, at Woodard Family Dentistry, conveniently located at 1020 S Pines Rd, Spokane Valley, WA 99206. Don't wait any longer to take care of your oral health.Call us today at (509) 924-8585 to schedule your appointment or to learn more about our comprehensive dental services.