Our Services / Teeth Whitening

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening uses bleaching solutions, like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to eliminate stains from your teeth. 

When these solutions are applied to your teeth, they infiltrate your enamel and oxidize the minerals inside. The oxidation process makes your teeth appear whiter, eliminating years of discoloration.

Who can benefit from teeth whitening?

If you have discolored teeth, you can benefit from teeth whitening. Many people develop yellow teeth due to the aging process. Over the years, your enamel wears down, revealing more of the dentin underneath.

You might also develop tooth stains due to:

• Tobacco use
• Drinking coffee and red wine
• Poor oral hygiene
• Taking medication with tetracycline
• Oral trauma

You’re also more likely to experience stained or discolored teeth if you consume certain foods like tomato-based sauces or berries.

What are the types of teeth whitening?

At Dentistry of Kingwood, the team offers several types of teeth whitening, including:

In-office teeth whitening

In-office whitening can make your teeth up to eight* shades lighter in one appointment. During this type of treatment, your provider applies a whitening gel to your teeth. After the gel sits, your provider directs a special light at your teeth to begin a whitening reaction. They do this several times until you achieve your desired results. 

Take-home teeth whitening trays

Take-home teeth whitening trays are plastic mouthpieces that snap snugly over your teeth. You line the mouthpiece with the whitening solution and wear them for several hours a day, whenever it works best with your schedule.

Are the results of teeth whitening permanent?

Teeth whitening isn’t permanent, but the results last an average of four months* and sometimes longer. To extend your results, the team at Dentistry of Kingwood recommends brushing your teeth twice daily, visiting the office every six months for an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning, and drinking dark beverages from a straw.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Teeth whitening is safe and usually well-tolerated. The solution used during in-office teeth whitening can irritate the tissues inside your mouth. To reduce the risk of this and other issues, your provider covers your gum and tongue with a protective dam before moving forward with treatment.

To learn more about the benefits of teeth whitening, make an appointment at Dentistry of Kingwood by calling the office today or clicking the online scheduling feature.

*Individual results may vary.