Cosmetic dentistry
Professional teeth whitening.
The simplest cosmetic upgrade in dentistry — done with the right concentration, the right timing, and the right care for your specific teeth.
Teeth darken gradually over time. Coffee, tea, red wine, certain medications, and the simple passage of years all add staining to the enamel and the dentin layer beneath it. Whitening lifts that staining and brings teeth back several shades brighter than they’ve been in years.
In-office whitening
In-office whitening is the fastest option. The session takes about 60 to 90 minutes. We protect your gums with a barrier, apply a professional-strength whitening gel, and accelerate it with a specialized light. Most patients leave several shades whiter the same day, with some additional brightening continuing over the next 24 to 48 hours as the enamel stabilizes.
This option works well for patients who want a visible result before an event — a wedding, a class reunion, a milestone photograph — and don’t want to wait three weeks for take-home trays to finish.
Custom take-home trays
Take-home whitening uses custom-made trays designed from impressions of your teeth. You wear them overnight or for a few hours during the day, with a professional-strength gel that gradually whitens over two to four weeks. The fit is precise — gel stays where it should, doesn’t leak onto your gums, and gets the most even result.
Custom trays are also the easiest way to maintain whitening long-term. Once you have your trays, an overnight touch-up once or twice a year keeps your smile looking the way you want it.
Realistic expectations
Whitening works on natural tooth enamel. It does not change the color of crowns, veneers, or composite fillings. If you have tooth-colored work on visible teeth, we’ll plan around it — sometimes whitening first and then replacing older restorations to match the new shade.
Results typically last one to three years, depending on your habits. Patients who drink a lot of coffee or red wine may see some yellowing return sooner. Touch-up treatments are easy and quick, especially with custom trays at home.
Frequently asked
Whitening — common questions.
Does whitening hurt?
Most patients feel mild sensitivity to cold for a day or two after whitening. It settles on its own and tends to be less noticeable with each subsequent treatment. If you have sensitive teeth to begin with, tell us — we'll use a lower concentration or adjust the timing to keep you comfortable.
How long do the results last?
Typically one to three years before a touch-up is needed. Coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco all shorten that timeline. Take-home tray whitening makes touch-ups easy — just a single overnight application once or twice a year keeps the result fresh.
Will whitening change the color of my crowns or veneers?
No. Whitening only works on natural tooth enamel — porcelain crowns and veneers won't change shade. If you have crowns or veneers on your front teeth and you're considering whitening, we'll talk through what to expect so the final result looks natural and even.
Is in-office whitening better than take-home?
Both work well. In-office whitening uses a stronger concentration and a special light, and gets you most of the way to your final shade in a single 60–90 minute appointment. Take-home tray whitening goes more gradually over two to four weeks but often reaches a similar final shade. The right choice depends on your timeline, sensitivity, and budget.
What about over-the-counter whitening strips?
They work, but they go several shades less white than professional whitening, and the trays don't fit your teeth precisely — which is why the gel leaks onto the gums. Professional whitening is more effective, more even, and safer for your gum tissue.
Ready for a brighter smile?
Plan a short consult and we’ll talk through which whitening option suits you best.