If you’re looking for professional teeth whitening in Columbia, Maryland, our team at Columbia Smiles is here for you. We know that a bright, white smile can boost your confidence, and we can help you achieve the look of your dreams. If you don’t like how your teeth look in photos or you’re self-conscious of your smile, professional teeth whitening is a cost-effective, safe way to get the smile you want.

What is Professional Teeth Whitening?

Over time, certain foods and beverages can stain teeth. Coffee, red wine, and even berries can leave stains on your teeth, and a diet high in acid-producing foods can soften or weaken your enamel. When your enamel is weakened, your teeth will be more prone to stains. Smoking can also discolor your teeth. Additionally, it’s natural for teeth to yellow with age. Dentin, the material that coats our teeth, starts as off-white, and yellows over time.

Our smile is part of the first impression we make. Stained, discolored, or yellowed teeth might make you feel self-conscious, but professional teeth whitening can quickly give you a radiant smile. Our safe, professionally administered teeth whitening procedures work faster than over-the-counter treatments.

Generally, bleaching is successful in at least 90 percent of patients, though it may not be an option for everyone. Consider tooth bleaching if your teeth are darker from age, coffee, tea, or smoking. Teeth darkened with the color of yellow, brown, or orange respond better to bleaching. Gray stains caused by fluorosis, smoking or tetracycline can be lightened, but results are not as dramatic. If you have very sensitive teeth, periodontal (gum) disease, or teeth with worn enamel, you may be discouraged from bleaching. If your teeth have been affected by an injury, we’ll talk with you about whether you’re a good candidate for bleaching.

The Teeth Whitening Process

First, we will determine whether you are a candidate for tooth bleaching and what type of bleaching system would provide the best results. When you come in for your consultation, feel free to bring a list of any questions that you may have. While bleaching is a simple and straightforward procedure, it’s important to us that you feel comfortable throughout your treatment. You are in charge of your care, and we are here to answer any questions you have along the way.

You may decide to have your teeth lightened immediately. We can use an in-office bleaching system while you sit in the dental chair. Some patients choose at-home bleaching for similar results. If you’re not sure which approach makes the most sense for you, we can work with you to explain the benefits of each option. We’ll help you decide whether in-office or at-home treatment is a better fit for your needs.

The active ingredient in most whitening agents in carbamide peroxide. Whether water comes into contact with this white crystal, the release of hydrogen peroxide lightens the teeth. Our teeth whitening services in Columbia, Maryland are safe and effective, and we use similar products to what you’d find in whitening kinds of toothpaste. And at our dental practice, we’re able to use products that are stronger than you’d get over the counter.

Caring for Your Teeth After Whitening

Good oral hygiene habits such as brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings will help you maintain your newly radiant smile. When you’re trying to keep your teeth white, avoid brushing your teeth for at least 30 minutes after eating or drink ing acidic foods These can weaken your enamel and leave you more susceptible to stains. Using a straw can also help you keep beverages from discoloring your teeth.

Some sensitivity after the whitening procedure is common. This should disappear after a couple of days. Meanwhile, a toothpaste designed to help sensitive teeth can help.

Teeth Whitening Services in Columbia, Maryland at Columbia Smiles

Results should last from one to five years, depending on lifestyle habits such as smoking and drinking coffee or tea. At this point, you may choose to get a touch-up. The retreatment time is much shorter than the original treatment time.

When you’re ready to become confident in your smile, contact us for our professional teeth whitening in Columbia, Maryland. Contact Columbia Smiles Family Dentistry today at 410.690.4855, or contact us online to set up your first whitening appointment. We’re looking forward to working with you and helping you get the smile you’ve always wanted.