As we age, our teeth slowly collect stains from foods and beverages we consume daily. Anything from coffees and teas to hard candy and tomato sauces can leave staining agents on our teeth. It’s normal for your teeth to dull and yellow as time goes on, but that doesn’t mean it’s a permanent blemish you have to live with. As your trusted cosmetic dentist in Westminster, MD, Dr. Bowersox offers Opalescence teeth whitening solutions to brighten your smile.
Teeth Whitening at Bowersox DDS Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
Patients love our Opalescence teeth whitening options because they are easy to use and give you choices. You can whiten your teeth during an appointment in our office or from the comfort of your home. This flexibility makes it convenient for busy schedules. Plus, Opalescence whitening is an affordable and effective way to brighten your smile.
Unlike over-the-counter whitening products, Opalescence systems are prescription-strength, which means they are much stronger and work better to remove tough stains. These professional-grade treatments are only available through a certified provider like Dr. Bowersox, so you can trust that you’re getting safe and reliable results.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
Here are some common questions we get about teeth whitening in Westminster, MD:
How long after whitening my teeth will I see results?
This depends on the type of treatment you opt for. Our office provides a full slate of whitening options for patients to choose from depending on their lifestyle and budgetary needs. These options include Opalescence, Opalescence Treswhite Supreme™, Opalescence BOOST, and Opalescence after-care toothpaste, toothbrushes, and OpalPix.
For our in-office procedures, you should notice a difference in an hour. A take-home kit can provide results after just one night, although results may vary and can take up to a week before you experience noticeable changes.
What are the benefits of Opalescence?
Opalescence teeth whitening solutions are customized to meet your smile’s unique needs. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach like over-the-counter options, Opalescence whitening trays are customized to fit over every one of your teeth. This provides a more consistent and predictable whitening treatment. It also helps avoid any splotchy distribution of the bleaching product.
How can I keep my teeth white after treatment?
Stick to a good oral hygiene routine to keep your smile bright and white after treatment. Brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that can lead to stains. Pay extra attention to brushing after eating or drinking things that are known to stain teeth, like coffee, tea, red wine, or dark sodas.
If you enjoy these beverages, consider drinking them through a straw. This helps minimize how much the liquid touches your teeth and reduces the risk of stains. You can also rinse your mouth with water after you drink or eat to wash away staining particles before they have a chance to stick to your teeth.
Even with the best care, your teeth may naturally lose some of their brightness over time due to aging and everyday wear. When this happens, don’t worry—you can always schedule another whitening treatment to bring back your bright, beautiful smile. Regular touch-ups can help you maintain the look you love.
How long does a teeth whitening appointment last?
When scheduling a professional teeth whitening appointment, patients can expect it to take about 90 minutes to 2 hours. This may vary depending on the level of whiteness you are looking to achieve and the number of sessions you have had in the past. An in-office appointment usually lasts around two hours.
The dentist may also take x-rays to ensure you have enough tooth structure left for the procedure. If not, they may recommend a different treatment plan.
Can teeth whitening damage teeth?
Teeth whitening does not damage teeth. It attacks dentin, which controls tooth color. If done correctly, teeth whitening does not damage tooth enamel. Our dentists are trained professionals who ensure that your teeth are safe during the procedure.
Can I whiten dental crowns?
No, you can’t whiten dental crowns. Crowns are made from materials like porcelain or ceramic, which don’t respond to whitening treatments like natural teeth.
If your crown no longer matches the color of your teeth after treatment, we may recommend that you replace it to match your new tooth shade. We will recommend that you discuss teeth whitening with us before you get a crown so we can match the color from the start.
Will teeth whitening work on all types of stains?
Teeth whitening works best on surface stains from coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco. However, it may not work as well on deeper stains inside the tooth, like those caused by injury, medications, or tooth decay.
Other treatments like dental veneers or tooth bonding may be better options for these types of stains. Dr. Bowersox provides porcelain veneers and tooth bonding. Veneers are shells that we bond to the front of teeth to change their shape, size, and color. Bonding uses tooth-colored materials to cover chips and stains. Talk to Dr. Bowersox to find the best solution for your specific type of tooth discoloration.
How does professional teeth whitening compare to store-bought options?
Professional teeth whitening is stronger and more effective than store-bought options. When you get whitening from a dentist, the whitening gel is more powerful, which means you’ll see better results faster. Dentists can also customize the treatment to fit your needs and ensure it’s safe for your teeth and gums.
Store-bought options, like whitening strips or gels, can work but usually take longer and may not give the same bright results. They are less strong and not tailored to your teeth. For the best and safest results, professional whitening is a better option.
Get a Brighter Smile
Treat dull, stained, and yellow teeth. Call Dr. Bowersox today at 410-642-5634 for same-day teeth whitening treatment in Westminster, MD. We also welcome you to schedule an appointment online. Let us know if you have questions about treatment. We’ll be glad to help.