A smile is a gift of God, and it impacts our lives every day. In our daily activities, a smile plays an important role in making us feel happier, more confident, and more powerful. A smile gives a friendly vibe when we meet new people and have conversations with our team. But sometimes, even after having good brushing habits on a regular basis, our teeth may lose their natural color and look due to age, types of food consumed, medications taken, and many other factors of our lifestyle. 

At Kathy Jacobsen Contemporary Dentistry, many patients come and ask why their teeth are not looking as white as they used to and what can be done to bring that whiter smile back. Nowadays, cosmetic treatments have some very popular professional whitening teeth cleaning treatments that are very effective, and for a good reason. These treatments are very safe, predictable, and give fast and noticeable results compared to other products. Patients who prefer a gentle and long-term approach, Perio Protect treatments are more comfortable and accessible.

This detailed guide helps you to understand the various benefits, process, and science behind the professional teeth whitening treatment, and what all options are available for you to get that brighter and healthier smile.

What Is Professional Teeth Whitening?

The professional teeth whitening treatment needs to be performed or supervised by a licensed dental professional only. The procedure requires the use of high-quality whitening agents – usually peroxide-based gels- that lightens the tooth color, thus offering faster and safer results than the over-the-counter methods.

Compared to the store bought tripes, pastes, or any other DIY kits, professional teeth whitening involves stronger and more controlled ingredients, resulting in outcomes that are:-

• More consistent
• Long lasting
• Enamel safe
• Customized according to your sensitivity
• And, tailored for your smile goals

At Kathy Jacobsen Contemporary Dentistry, your dentist will perform an exam and, depending on your requirements, whether you require teeth whitening for a special occasion or just need a regular cleaning, she will perform the whitening, which has noticeable results. 

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

We often answer the most common question asked by our patients, “How does teeth whitening work”?

The explanation is very simple – most whitening gels have hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide in them. The oxygen molecules from these peroxides penetrate the outer porous layer of the teeth enamel and act as an oxidising agent. These oxygen molecules then react with the molecules that cause stains and break their molecular chain, thus making them smaller and less pigmented. This process results in brighter and whiter teeth, without damaging the tooth structure.

Professional whitening addresses both extrinsic and intrinsic stains.

• Extrinsic Stains:- These are the surface stains which are caused by foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, wine, or by smoking.
• Intrinsic Stains:- These are the deeper stains caused by medications, aging, trauma, or genetics.

Since the whitening agents used at dental offices are stronger and applied in controlled conditions, they produce results that can’t be achieved by at-home products.

Types of Professional Whitening Treatments

At Kathy Jacobsen Contemporary Dentistry, we offer a variety of options for the teeth whitening process, as each and every smile is unique and special. The main professional teeth whitening we offer are –

1. In-Office Professional Teeth Whitening

This is the most effective, accurate, and safe way to brighten your smile with fast results. Your smile may brighten up to several shades in just one visit, depending on your teeth’s condition. 

How it works:-

• Firstly, a protective barrier is used to shield your gums.
• Next, a high-strength gel is applied to your teeth.
• Then, a light or laser may be used depending on the requirement.
• Lastly, the gel is removed and rinsed. If required it may be reaplied in cycles till the desired result is achieved.

Ideal for patients who:-

• Wants fast results
• Prefer professionally monitored treatmet
• Have deeper staining
• Need whitening before an event

The outcomes from this method are more powerful, predictable, and reliable. This is one of the main reasons why most patients search for “teeth whitening at dentist”.

2. Perio Protect Whitening – A Gentle and Effective Alternative

Perio Protect is more known for its gum health improvement, but it is also used for teeth whitening. It uses custom-fitted trays, which allow the gel to go deep below the gum line where brushing and flossing can’t reach.

How it works:-

• Designing custom trays according to each patient’s mouth impression.
• Place the Perio Gel in the tray and wear it for a short time (10-15 minutes) daily.
• The gel has peroxide, which releases oxygen molecules. These molecules act as an antimicrobial and reduce bacterial growth.
• Naturally brightens up the teeth along with the gum health.

It does not instantly whiten up the teeth like the professional whitening treatment, but it still provides:-

• A whiter appearance over the time period
• Helps freshen up your breath
• Improves your gum health
• Provides support for your overall oral hygiene
• A great option for patients who are sensitive

Perio Protect is a great option for people who prefer a low-sensitivity whitening approach or for those who want a healthy gum and brighter smile at the same time. At Kathy Jacobsen Contemporary Dentistry we do offer the Perio Protect Treatment, please consider to discuss with our experts to know more about Perio Protect.

3. Take Home Professional Whitening Kit

These are the dental whitening kits designed and supervised by dentists to whiten your teeth from the convenience of your home. There are a few components included in a professional whitening kit designed by a dentist, like:-

1. Custom-fitted trays – these are the clear, flexible trays made after taking your teeth impressions in the dental lab.
2. Whitening gels – this is an active agent that has a higher concentration of peroxide in it than the over-the-counter products.
3. Desensitizing agents – ingredients like potassium nitrate and fluoride are included in the gels to reduce the side effects of sensitivity.
4. Shade guides – a small chart to track your progress from starting shade to end result.
5. Instructions – a detailed instruction and safety guide is provided to help you in your journey.

The benefits of using these kits are:-

• Results in even whitening
• Causes low sensitivity
• Gradual shade improvement
• Dentist-monitored progress

If you are among the patients who prefer whitening at your own pace, then a professional whitening kit is an excellent option for you.

Does Teeth Whitening Really Work?

One of the most common questions that we hear at Kathy Jacobsen Contemporary Dentistry is “Does teeth whitening work?” 

Yes, professional teeth whitening absolutely works when done under the supervision of your dentist. The results may depend on several factors, such as which method is opted for, the type of stains your teeth have, and the overall oral hygiene condition of your teeth. The Professional Teeth Whitening done by an expert dentist is definitely worth more than the over-the-counter products.

Teeth whitening done under the guidance and supervision of an expert ensures:-

• The right strength gel is used
• Sensitivity is taken care of
• Results are uniform and upto the requirements of the patient
• The gums and enamel remain protected
• The whitening results last long

Depending on your oral condition, your dentist will suggest the best option for you to choose.

Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening

As compared to over-the-counter products professional teeth whitening has some major advantages such as:-

• It is totally Safe for enamel and gums
• The results are more faster and real
• This is fully customizable according to your requirements
• The whitening achieved lasts more longer than the OTC products
• It also helps you to improve your oral hygiene routine
• It easily compliments with other cosmetic treatments
• Perio Protect adds additional gum health benefits

This approach mproves both wellness and cosmetic appearance – something which home kits can not achieve.

What happens during a Teeth Whitening Procedure?

If you want the best results from professional teeth whitening, choose in-office treatments. Since these services are provided by dental experts, the results can be exceptional! Plus, compared to at-home teeth whitening, these specialists handle the entire process for you!

Professional in-office whitening typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes for each session. To begin, the provider takes note of the current shade of your teeth. Then, pumice is used on the surface of your teeth to remove plaque. Once cleaned, the experts add gauze and protective materials inside your mouth to keep certain areas away from the whitening solution.

The next step in the process is to apply the whitening solution to the front surface of your teeth. This substance is typically made of a bleaching agent, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. After the application, a curing light or laser is often used to activate the peroxide. Most providers will leave on the whitening solution for 30 to 60 minutes, depending on their specific process.

Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Teeth Whitening Treatment?

Professional Teeth Whitening is best option if want:-

• Whiten your teeth safely and under proper guidance
• Remove stains from different causes like food, beverages, medication, or any other reason
• Not only whitens your teeth but improves your confidence as well
• Brighten up your smile before a special event

But, this process might not be a good option for you if:-

• You have cavities that are left untreated
• Have any kind of gum disease
• Several enamel defects
• You are a hypersensitive person
• You already have dental restorations n front teeth

You need to discuss all your conditions with your dentist, so that she can guide you and help you to choose the best option to achieve your desired results.

Aftercare Tips for Long Lasting Results

To keep your teeth whiten and brighten after the treatment you must follow some aftercare tips such as:-

• Avoid any kind of dark food or beverages for the next 48 hours
• Don’t smoke for sometime in future
• Brush and floss twice a day
• Use the whitening toothpaste which your dentist recommends
• Consider periodic touch ups
• Use Perio Protect Trays if prescribed

After your treatment, your dentist at Kathy Jacobsen Contemporary Dentistry will guide you through all the do’s and dont’s that you need to take care of your teeth.

Why Choose Kathy Jacobsen Contemporary Dentistry for Professional Teeth Whitening?

At our dental office in Gilbert, Arizona patients trust our dental experts for:-

• Advanced whitening technologies we offer
• A gentle and personalized approach
• We focus on long term results
• A calm and comfortable dental experience
• Our comprehensive dental care treatment

We understand that achieving a whitening teeth is not just a cosmetic – but it is an important part of your lifestyle and makes you feel more confident and gives you a big reason for smiling.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we can say that going for a professional teeth whitening procedure offers a safer, faster, and superior option as compared to at home kits. The procedure provides a customizable, real, and long lasting results under the supervision of your dental expert. 

Our experts at Kathy Jacobsen Contemporary Dentistry are always ready and happy to help you through your whitening journey and achieving your desired results. Our experts makes you understand the procedure and gives you tips to maintain your smile as bright and white as you want. 

Book your whitening consultation today at Kathy Jacobsen Contemporary Dentistry or give us a call at +1 480 507 1807, and we will be more than happy to help you.

Frequently asked questions

Q1. How long does professional whitening lasts?

Ans 1. The professional whitening results can last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years depending on your oral condition, habits, and your aftercare process.

Q2. Will whitening make my teeth sensitive?

Ans 2. Yes, a mild sensitivity can be there but it gradually subsidies after few days or once the procedure is completed.

Q3. Can all teeth be whitened?

Ans 3. No, all teeth and types of stains can not be whitened. Your dentist will discuss the options with you.

Q4. How fast will I see results?

Ans 4. Results from an in office treatment can be seen immediately, however the results from Perio Protect and take home trays can be gradually.

Q5. Is dental whitening safe?

Ans 5. Yes, it is very much safe when done under the guidance and supervision of the dental expert.