Teeth Whitening In Silver Spring & Germantown, MD
If your pearly whites need a touch-up or a little whiteness boost, you may want to consider teeth whitening at R3 Dental Group. We offer effective teeth whitening treatments to match the needs of every patient, with flexible in-office or at-home treatments. Residents of Germantown, Silver Spring, Frederick, and the surrounding cities of Maryland can trust R3 Dental Group for their teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry needs.
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Teeth Whitening Techniques
There are many products and techniques available for patients who want to achieve a brighter smile, and with so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the method that is right for you. The best way to begin any teeth whitening regimen is to schedule an appointment and talk to your doctor about the differences between in-office professional whitening and at-home whitening.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
The first professional option is commonly referred to as in-office whitening. This procedure is performed in a dental office. During an appointment, your dental professional will apply a whitening gel to the surface of your teeth. The entire office visit generally takes about 90 minutes and you will be able to see results immediately.
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At-Home Teeth Whitening
Tray Whitening
Tray bleaching is a type of professional whitening that uses custom-made trays and whitening gel only available through your dentist. The whitening gel is placed in custom-fitted trays that fit perfectly over your teeth. As the peroxide in the gel breaks down, hydroxyl radicals help whiten stained teeth. Unlike strips, this process whitens all your natural teeth and may contain ingredients intended to provide maximum comfort. At-home professional tray whitening generally takes 10 to 14 days, although you may notice results in as little as three to five days.
Paint-On Teeth Whiteners
There are many over-the-counter teeth whitening options, and one type of readily accessible whitening product is commonly referred to as a “paint-on” teeth whitener. Paint-on whiteners can be purchased over the counter and generally are less expensive and less effective than whitening strips or professional options. Paint-on teeth whiteners consist of a gel that is applied to the tooth using a small brush. Paint-on whitening gel hardens into a film that coats the teeth and dissolves in the mouth. As with any teeth whitening regimen, it is wise to consult with a dental professional before use.
Teeth Whitening Strips
Teeth whitening strips are thin, flexible plastic (polyethylene) strips with a thin film of hydrogen peroxide on one side. Whitening strip kits come with two types of strips: strips for the upper teeth and strips for the lower teeth. The whitening agent is applied by placing the strips across your teeth and gently pressing the strips to ensure contact with all your teeth. Teeth whitening strips are typically worn for 30 minutes a day, twice a day. The duration of treatment will vary.
Whitening Toothpaste and Mouthwash
The least expensive options are whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes. Designed to have “whitening” capabilities, toothpastes and mouthwashes work to remove surface stains using mild abrasives. However, unlike the materils used in professional whitening procedures, these products do not lighten the actual color shade of the tooth. Whitening toothpaste affects surface stains and will mildly lighten your teeth.
Teeth Whitening FAQ
Patients who experience the most benefit from having their teeth whitened:
- Are in good dental health
- Maintain good dental health (i.e. brush three times a day, floss, receive regular dental checkups every six months, etc.).
- May suffer from slightly discolored or yellow teeth.
- Wish to improve the look of their smile for aesthetic purposes.
- Are in good physical health.
Teeth whitening is a safe, effective procedure, and does not typically include any negative side effects. Minor side effects may consist of:
- Increased tooth sensitivity to hot or cold.
- White spots on the surface of the teeth (a potential side effect of at-home whitening systems).
- Nighttime whitening trays may cause additional gum sensitivity or irritation.
To learn more about our teeth whitening options or schedule an appointment, contact us today. We offer teeth whitening and a breadth of other dentistry services at R3 Dental Group, proudly serving patients from the Silver Spring, Germantown, Bowie, and Bethesda areas.