Professional Teeth Whitening for a Brighter Smile at Schaefer Dental Group in Lansing, Michigan
It’s hard to imagine anything more appealing than a sparkling, white smile. Fortunately, professional teeth whitening services are available at Schaefer Dental Group in Lansing, Michigan to safely and effectively brighten your smile. It’s also perhaps the most economical cosmetic dental procedure.
Professionally supervised whitening works faster and protects sensitive gums and tooth-root surfaces better than over-the-counter products. Depending on the method you choose, results can be dramatic: in-office whitening, for example, can lighten teeth three to eight shades in a single hour.
Having an oral exam before you begin any whitening process is an important first step to ensure your tooth discoloration is not the result of a dental condition in need of treatment. If you have any questions about which whitening method would be best for you, talk to us first.
Professional Whitening Methods
Professional whitening uses high-concentration bleaching gels that are not available over the counter.
-
In-Office Whitening: This technique offers the fastest results with the most powerful whitening solutions available.
-
Your gums and tooth-root surfaces will first be covered with a protective barrier.
-
A thin plastic retractor holds your lips and cheeks away as a professional-strength hydrogen peroxide gel is applied.
-
The gel is left on for about an hour, and the results are obvious immediately.
-
-
Take-Home Whitening: This is another effective way to whiten your teeth, though several weeks may be needed to achieve your desired level of whiteness.
-
A mold of your teeth is taken, and then two thin, flexible plastic mouth trays are custom-made for you.
-
You fill the trays with the prescribed whitening gel and position them over your teeth.
-
The trays are typically left in for about an hour at a time.
-
Caring for Your Whitened Smile
To make sure your whitening results last as long as possible (which can range from six months to two years or longer), follow these tips:
-
Maintain Routine Care: Continue your conscientious routine of brushing and flossing every day, and keep up with your regular schedule of professional cleanings at Schaefer Dental Group.
-
Avoid Staining Agents: Limit or avoid foods and beverages that stain, including red wine, tea, and coffee.
-
Quit Smoking: Use your newly whitened teeth as an impetus to quit—a great idea for your health in any event!
A minor touch-up every so often, either at home or at Schaefer Dental Group, can keep your smile bright and beautiful for years. Contact your Lansing dentist today to discuss your whitening options!