Professional Teeth Whitening in Wilmington, NC
Over-the-counter teeth whitening products can work well enough, but they often won’t provide the even, consistent shade of white that professional teeth whitening services offer. Working with a dentist like Dr. Garrett is one of the best ways to ensure that you actually achieve the results that you are looking for. To learn more about our safe and effective teeth whitening services and to schedule your professional teeth whitening consultation, please get in touch with our office!
What kind of professional teeth whitening treatments are available?
Our practice offers take-home teeth whitening kits through Opalescence whitening. Patients can use a whitening gel that is the precise strength that they need and our take-home kits to achieve their ideal shade of white at home in about 14 days. Custom whitening trays can be made in-office, or patients can utilize pre-filled trays that evenly distribute whitening gel across each tooth. Opalescence whitening can be used by anyone with healthy teeth and gums, which makes it a great product for virtually any patient who wants to enhance the appearance of their smile!
Does teeth whitening cause tooth sensitivity?
One of the great benefits of using a professional teeth whitening product like Opalescence whitening is that it provides patients with their ideal shade of white with very little to no tooth sensitivity afterward. If your teeth are currently very sensitive, please let our team know during your consultation. After your teeth whitening treatment, we recommend avoiding very hot and very cold foods for a little while, as that can trigger tooth sensitivity in sensitive teeth that have just been whitened. Any tooth sensitivity that you happen to experience should quickly subside after a few days.
How can I keep my smile bright white?
No one wants to go through the trouble of whitening their teeth just for them to go right back to how they were. It’s important to note that certain foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and berries are known to stain teeth more frequently than other foods. Regularly using tobacco products makes the effects of teeth whitening fade faster as well. Take-home teeth whitening kits allow you to touch up the appearance of your teeth whenever necessary, which makes it easy to ensure that your smile stays the exact color that you want from the comfort of home!
Teeth Whitening FAQs
How does Opalescence whitening differ from over-the-counter products?
Opalescence is a professional-grade whitening system available through dental practices like Wilmington Smiles. Unlike store-bought options, Opalescence provides personalized treatment using custom-fit trays or pre-filled ones designed for safe and even gel application. The formulation is more effective and longer-lasting than over-the-counter kits, and the results are supervised by a dental professional like Dr. Garrett, ensuring both safety and optimal results. Patients often notice brighter, more uniform smiles in less time, with less sensitivity than cheaper alternatives.
Is teeth whitening suitable for individuals with sensitive teeth?
Yes, many patients with tooth sensitivity can still benefit from professional whitening. Opalescence products are specifically formulated to reduce discomfort, and any sensitivity experienced is typically mild and temporary. Dr. Garrett often recommends avoiding extremely hot or cold foods and using desensitizing toothpaste before and after treatment. For those with a history of significant sensitivity, he may suggest a slower, gentler approach that still yields excellent cosmetic results without unnecessary discomfort.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have dental restorations like crowns or veneers?
Professional whitening treatments work best on natural teeth. The whitening agent will not respond to crowns, veneers, or composite fillings. Dr. Garrett will examine your restorations before beginning treatment to determine the best course of action. If needed, he may recommend whitening your natural teeth first, then replacing any restorations to match the new shade. This ensures a consistent, natural-looking smile across all visible teeth.
How long do the results of professional teeth whitening last?
The longevity of whitening results depends on your lifestyle habits and oral hygiene. Avoiding stain-causing substances such as coffee, red wine, tea, and tobacco can help preserve your results. Dr. Garrett also recommends brushing regularly, using a straw for colored drinks, and scheduling occasional touch-up treatments. With good habits and periodic maintenance, many patients enjoy brighter smiles for a year or more after professional whitening.
What precautions should I take before undergoing teeth whitening?
A dental check-up is essential before starting any whitening treatment. Dr. Garrett will inspect your teeth and gums to ensure they’re healthy and free of conditions like decay or gum disease, which could cause irritation or uneven results. Professional cleaning before whitening also improves the effectiveness of the treatment by removing surface stains and buildup. Personalized care is key to both safety and success.
Are there any dietary restrictions during the whitening process?
Yes, to maintain the whitening effects, it’s best to avoid foods and drinks that are dark or acidic during and shortly after treatment. These include coffee, tea, berries, red sauces, and soda. Dr. Garrett often suggests following a “white diet” consisting of non-staining foods like chicken, rice, potatoes, and bananas. This helps ensure the whitening agents aren’t compromised and that teeth remain bright for longer.
How does Dr. Garrett ensure the safety of the whitening process?
Dr. Garrett prioritizes patient safety and long-term results. Before any whitening begins, he thoroughly evaluates each patient’s oral health and selects the most appropriate Opalescence product. Instructions for use are clearly explained, and patients are monitored during and after treatment. Whether using in-office or take-home trays, every step is designed to achieve noticeable whitening without damaging the enamel or irritating the gums.
