Hooper General and Cosmetic Dentistry
is proud to specialize in state-of-the art teeth whitening procedures and we are happy to give you an overview of the best and the brightest options here.
If you have been hiding your smile for months or years due to tooth discoloration caused by aging, genetics, medications, or poor oral care, give yourself the gift of a professionally brightened, whitened smile. We love to see our cosmetic patients’ smiling bright with a boost from Dr. Hooper.
Teeth Whitening Options
Multiple tooth whitening options exist, differentiated by cost and how quickly and effectively they work. The three primary options when considering tooth whitening are: applying a dental-grade bleaching agent at home using trays made for you by your dentist (known as the take-home system); having your teeth bleached in a dentist’s office; or purchasing an over-the-counter bleaching system to apply at home. At Modern Smiles, we recommend our in-office whitening procedure, as it is safe, effective and proven to create the beautiful, bright smile you deserve!
Take-Home Systems
Take-home systems allow the bleaching products to be applied evenly over the tooth’s surface because the bleaching tray, fitted by a dentist, is custom-made to align with your teeth. Patients can apply them during the day or overnight. It generally takes 2-6 weeks to see results.
Over-the-Counter
Over-the-counter products are used similarly to the take-home, but the results are less reliable because the provided strips or trays do not fit as precisely as a custom-made bleaching tray. While they may be a good option for people to maintain their professional whitening results, over-the-counter teeth bleaching systems are not approved by the ADA (American Dental Association).
In-Office Bleaching
In-office bleaching typically utilizes more highly concentrated bleaching agent than the take-home methods; and the results are visible immediately after treatment. In-office bleaching is a good choice for people desiring instant whitening, as the previous options may take weeks for results to be visible.
What to Expect
Side effects involving tooth whitening are typically mild and temporary. Some of the more common problems are gum irritation or sensitive teeth. Poorly fitting whitening trays, or using the teeth bleaching agent for longer than recommended sessions, may lead to irritation.
Patients can reduce temporary sensitivity by using a fluoride toothpaste, placing fluoride gel in the tray prior to whitening, or spacing out their whitening treatments. Some take-home products are designed to reduce sensitivity, though they may be less potent and yield results more slowly.
Superior Whitening Results with Professional Expertise
Opting for professional teeth whitening at Hooper General and Cosmetic Dentistry ensures the most effective and immediate results. Our in-office whitening treatments use advanced techniques and high-potency bleaching agents that deliver brighter, more uniform results compared to over-the-counter options. This professional approach not only speeds up the whitening process but also provides long-lasting results, making it a reliable choice for achieving a stunning, radiant smile.
Customized Whitening Solutions
We recognize that every patient has unique needs and preferences when it comes to teeth whitening. At Hooper General and Cosmetic Dentistry, we tailor our whitening treatments to suit your individual goals. During your initial consultation, Dr. Hooper will evaluate your dental health and discuss your desired outcomes to recommend the best whitening option for you. Whether you choose our in-office treatment or a custom take-home kit, we ensure that your treatment plan aligns with your lifestyle and delivers optimal results.
Long-Term Maintenance for Your Bright Smile
To keep your smile looking its best after whitening, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene and make a few lifestyle adjustments. Steering clear of foods and beverages that can stain your teeth, like coffee, tea, and red wine, will help maintain your whitening results. Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste and routine visits to our office will help maintain your bright smile. We can provide additional advice and products to help you prolong the effects of your whitening treatment and keep your smile looking fresh and vibrant.
Weighing Costs and Benefits
Professional teeth whitening is an investment in your appearance and self-confidence. While it may come with a higher price tag compared to over-the-counter products, the benefits of professional treatment—including faster, more noticeable results and enhanced safety—make it a valuable choice. At Hooper General and Cosmetic Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care and ensuring that your investment yields significant rewards. We also offer flexible payment options to make achieving a brighter smile more accessible.
Teeth Whitening: Contact Us Today
Please contact us at (757) 417-7300 to learn more about our teeth whitening services at Hooper Dentistry in Virginia Beach. Our team is happy to discuss the benefits of our in-office teeth whitening system, and will schedule your appointment to get started!
