Professional Whitening vs. Store-Bought Products
Over-the-counter whitening strips and toothpastes typically use lower-strength ingredients and can take weeks to show modest results. Professional in-office whitening uses a stronger, dentist-supervised whitening gel that delivers noticeable results in a single visit. Because our team protects your gums and monitors the treatment, professional whitening is also safer and more even, with less risk of irritation or uneven results.
What to Expect During Your Whitening Appointment
- Exam and shade check. Your dentist checks the health of your teeth and gums and records your starting shade. For the best results, we recommend a professional teeth cleaning before whitening to remove surface plaque and tartar.
- Protecting your gums. A protective barrier is placed over your gums and soft tissues.
- Applying the whitening gel. A professional-strength whitening gel is applied to your teeth and activated in timed sessions.
- Revealing your new smile. The gel is removed, and we compare your new shade to your starting shade. Most patients see results several shades brighter in one visit.
Is Teeth Whitening Right for You?
Teeth whitening works best for patients with healthy teeth and gums and natural enamel discoloration. Whitening does not change the color of dental crowns, veneers, fillings, or bonding, so if you have visible restorations, your dentist will help you plan for a consistent shade. If you're planning cosmetic work, we recommend whitening first so new restorations can be matched to your brighter smile.
Professional whitening is often one of the quickest ways to refresh your appearance and is frequently included as part of complete smile makeover services in Lansdale.
Keeping Your Smile Bright
While whitening results are long-lasting, occasional touch-up treatments may be needed, especially for patients who smoke or regularly drink coffee, tea, or wine. To help your results last:
- Avoid coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored foods for 48 hours after whitening
- Drink staining beverages through a straw when possible
- Rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking staining foods
- Brush twice a day, floss daily, and keep up with regular cleanings
Teeth Whitening Cost and Insurance
Professional teeth whitening is one of the most affordable cosmetic dental treatments. Because whitening is cosmetic, it's typically not covered by dental insurance, but we offer flexible payment plans through Smile Now, Pay-Over-Time. Be sure to check our seasonal offers for current specials.
