Teeth Whitening

If you live in the Monterey Bay area or the surrounding communities, you can benefit from our teeth whitening services. At Lois Lagier, DDS, we are known for improving the appearance of our patients' smiles. Our natural teeth are meant to be white, bright, and attractive. But over the years, the color of our teeth become dull and discolored. The reason? Wear and tear, and because certain foods and beverages have stained our teeth. The truth is, over-the-counter whitening pastes, rinses, strips and other home remedies can only do so much.  We often recommend teeth bleaching treatments because it is by far the easiest way to transform your smile. Cosmetic dentistry patients who have come to us with the same problem, walk out later feeling like a million bucks because their smiles have been restored! 

Types Of Whitening 

There are several types of teeth bleaching that you can try. People typically start by using whitening toothpaste at home. This can help to brighten your teeth but is typically not enough to actually whiten them. We recommend toothpaste as part of an overall teeth whitening treatment but not by itself. After professional whitening, the toothpaste can help your teeth stay bright.

Many people may try over the counter solutions like whitening trays or strips. These treatments work but not as well as professional solutions. As with most things, what you buy in the store is simply not as strong as what you can get from a medical professional. Additionally, store bought whitening trays are designed to fit everyone's teeth, not your teeth specifically. This means that they can become loose, and the solution can leak, leading to gum irritation.

We recommend that patients schedule an appointment with Dr. Lagier instead. Our professional tooth whitening solutions can transform the appearance of your teeth in a dynamic way. This is partially due to the strength of the solution that we use. Professional grade whitening gel can whiten teeth by eight shades or more vs. around two shades with store bought solutions. If you are looking for immediate and dramatic results, in-office whitening is a far better option.

Teeth Whitening Options

Philips Zoom Whitening is a popular professional teeth whitening treatment that can be performed in a dental office and at home. Here’s a general overview of the process:

In-Office Whitening:

Consultation and Assessment:

• The dentist will examine your teeth and gums to ensure they are healthy enough for whitening.
• They will discuss your desired results and determine the appropriate shade of white.

Preparation:

• A cheek retractor is used to expose your teeth and protect your lips and gums.
• A protective covering is applied to your gums to prevent irritation from the whitening gel.

Application of Whitening Gel:

• A hydrogen peroxide-based whitening gel is applied to the teeth.
• The Zoom light is positioned over your teeth to activate the gel and enhance the whitening process.

Whitening Sessions:

• The gel is left on your teeth for about 15 minutes while the light is on.
• This process is typically repeated 3-4 times in one visit, depending on the desired level of whitening.

Rinsing and Fluoride Treatment:

• After the final session, the gel is removed, and your teeth are rinsed.
• A fluoride treatment may be applied to help reduce sensitivity.

Post-Treatment Care:

• You will receive instructions on how to care for your teeth post-treatment.
• You may be given a touch-up kit with custom-fitted whitening trays for at-home maintenance.

At-Home Whitening:

Initial Consultation:

• A dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create custom-fitted whitening trays.

Receiving the Kit:

• You will receive the custom trays along with a professional-strength whitening gel.

Application:

• You will fill the trays with the gel and wear them for a specified amount of time each day, usually for a few hours or overnight, depending on the dentist's instructions.

Duration:

• The at-home treatment typically lasts weeks to months depending on frequency of use.

Monitoring:

• The dentist will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure you are achieving the desired results.

Benefits of Philips Zoom Whitening:

• Fast Results: Significant whitening can be achieved in a single office visit.
• Customizable: Treatment plans can be tailored to individual needs.
• Professional Supervision: Ensures safety and effectiveness.
• At-Home Convenience: For those who prefer a more gradual whitening process.

Potential Side Effects:

• Tooth Sensitivity: Temporary sensitivity to hot and cold can occur.
• Gum Irritation: The whitening gel may cause temporary irritation to the gums.

Aftercare Tips:

• Avoid staining foods and beverages (coffee, tea, red wine) for at least 48 hours post-treatment.
• Maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing.
• Use a whitening toothpaste to help maintain results.

Schedule Your Teeth Whitening Today!

Are you interested in having whiter teeth and a radiant smile? Now is the time to talk to Dr. Lagier about a teeth whitening solution that is best for you. Schedule your appointment today to discuss options with our dental team!