Achieve a Brighter, Whiter Smile
Do you wish to have a brighter, more confident smile? Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can help remove stains and discoloration, caused by age, smoking and certain foods or drinks. Our Farmington Hills, MI dentist, Dr. Roman Shlafer, offers two teeth whitening options, including in-office treatments and at-home kits.
It’s important to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shlafer by calling (248) 720-5618 to determine which option is best for your individual needs and to ensure that the treatment is safe and effective. With a brighter, more confident smile, you can feel more comfortable and confident in social and professional settings.
What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves removing stains and discoloration from teeth to reveal a brighter, whiter smile. It is a popular and effective way to enhance the appearance of your teeth.
Types of Teeth Whitening
There are two main types of teeth whitening: BriteSmile® In-Office Whitening and Nite White® Take-Home Whitening Kits.
BriteSmile® In-Office Whitening
BriteSmile® In-Office Whitening is a professional teeth whitening treatment that is performed in our Farmington Hills dental office. Dr. Shlafer applies a whitening gel to the teeth and uses a special light to activate the gel, which helps to break down stains and discoloration.
Nite White® Take-Home Whitening Kits
Nite White® Take-Home Whitening Kits are custom-made trays that are filled with a whitening gel and worn at home for a specified amount of time. These kits are convenient and effective, allowing you to achieve a brighter smile in the comfort of your own home.
Benefits of Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that offers several benefits, including:
- A brighter, more youthful-looking smile: Teeth whitening can effectively remove stains and discoloration from the teeth’s surface, leaving you with a brighter, more radiant smile. This can help you look younger and more vibrant.
- Increased confidence and self-esteem: Having a brighter, more attractive smile can boost your confidence and self-esteem, making you feel more comfortable and self-assured in social and professional situations.
- A more polished and professional appearance: A brighter, more radiant smile can help you look more polished and professional, which can be particularly beneficial in business and networking scenarios.
- Improved oral hygiene habits: Undergoing a teeth whitening procedure can encourage you to take better care of your teeth and maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly.
Who is a Candidate for Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is suitable for most people who want to enhance the appearance of their smile. However, it may not be suitable for everyone. You may not be a candidate for teeth whitening if you have:
- Sensitive teeth or gums
- Tooth decay or gum disease
- Restorations such as crowns or veneers
- A history of allergic reactions to dental products
BriteSmile® In-Office Whitening Process
The in-office teeth whitening process typically involves the following steps:
Consultation: Dr. Shlafer will examine your teeth and gums to determine if teeth whitening is right for you.
Preparation: If you are a candidate for teeth whitening, your Farmington Hills dentist will prepare your teeth by cleaning them and removing any plaque or debris.
Protection: He will protect your gums, lips, and cheeks by applying a barrier and using a special retractor to keep your mouth open.
Whitening: Dr. Shlafer will apply a high concentration of whitening gel to your teeth and use a special light to activate the gel. This process is usually repeated a few times during the appointment.
Evaluation: After the final round of whitening, he will clean your teeth again and evaluate the results.
Nite White® Take-Home Whitening Kits Process
While the BriteSmile treatment is quicker, Dr. Shlafer provides you with everything you need to whiten your teeth from the comfort of your own home. This kit is just as effective as the BrightSmile treatment and you can expect to see a brighter smile within just 7 to 10 nights of use.
The Nite White® Take-Home Whitening Kit includes a patent gel that is specially designed to eliminate stains from your teeth. According to Dr. Shlafer’s recommendation, you can fill your customized trays with the bleaching gel and wear them overnight while you sleep. This allows for a convenient and comfortable way to whiten your teeth without having to spend a lot of time at the dentist’s office.
Maintaining Teeth Whitening Results
To maintain your teeth whitening results, it is important to follow these tips:
- Brush and floss regularly
- Avoid foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, and red wine
- Use a straw when drinking dark-colored beverages
- Quit smoking or using tobacco products
- Visit our Farmington Hills dental office for regular checkups and cleanings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Teeth whitening is a safe and effective cosmetic dental procedure when done by a trained professional. However, it’s important to follow the instructions provided by the dentist or dental hygienist during the procedure to avoid any potential risks.
Teeth whitening results can last up to two years with proper maintenance. However, the longevity of the results depends on several factors, including the type of treatment, the original color of your teeth, and your lifestyle habits.
Teeth whitening does not damage teeth when done properly. However, overuse or misuse of whitening products can cause tooth sensitivity and damage to the enamel. This is why it’s important to follow the instructions provided by the dentist or dental hygienist during the procedure.
Teeth whitening is considered a cosmetic dental procedure and is not usually covered by insurance. However, some insurance plans may cover the cost of teeth whitening if it’s deemed medically necessary. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to see if they cover this procedure.
