Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. But over time, everyday habits can stain your teeth. Professional teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental treatment and easy way to bring back your smile’s natural brightness. At Carol Stream & Elgin Dental Associates, we help you get great results without the guesswork of store-bought products.
Our professional whitening works better than what you can buy at the store. It gives you faster, more even results that last longer. We use Opalescence whitening with custom trays that fit just your teeth. This means no messy strips or uneven whitening. You’ll get a brighter smile you’ll love showing off.
What Causes Teeth to Stain?
Your teeth can lose their bright white color over time from everyday things. Dark drinks are big causes of stains. Foods like berries, pasta sauce, and soy sauce can also leave marks on your teeth. If you smoke or use tobacco, you might notice yellow or brown stains that regular brushing can’t remove.
Other things can change your tooth color too. As we get older, the white outer layer of teeth gets thinner, showing more of the yellow layer underneath. Some medicines and antibiotics can discolor teeth. Even your family history can play a role because some people’s teeth stain more easily than others.
Professional teeth whitening can remove most stains and give you back a youthful smile. Whether your stains come from food, age, or other causes, our Carol Stream and Elgin dentists can help your smile look its best again.
Professional Teeth Whitening in Carol Stream & Elgin, IL
One of the main reasons patients choose professional teeth whitening in our dental practices is the results. Our whitening treatments are more powerful and effective than over-the-counter products. Here are some of the benefits of choosing professional whitening:
- Quick and Noticeable Results: Our whitening treatments provide dramatic results in just one treatment. In-office whitening sessions typically last about an hour, so you’ll leave with noticeably whiter teeth after just one visit. This makes it a convenient option for anyone who wants fast results without wasting time with at-home whitening strips and trays.
- Even and Consistent Whitening: One common problem with over-the-counter whitening kits is that they can cause uneven results. This is because the trays or strips provided don’t always fit perfectly, leaving some areas untreated. Custom bleaching trays in a dental office will fit your teeth, so the whitening gel goes on even. This results in a consistent color and no uneven patches across your smile.
- Reduced Sensitivity: If you have sensitive teeth, you might worry that whitening will cause pain. The good news is professional whitening treatments are made with this in mind. We add special ingredients to help prevent sensitivity during and after your treatment.
- Customized Treatments: Everyone’s teeth are different, and the causes of staining can vary. We customize whitening treatments to suit your specific needs. Our dentists will look at the color of your teeth and recommend a treatment plan that will give you the best outcome. Whether you need a single session for mild discoloration or multiple treatments for deeper stains, a customized plan ensures you get the perfect shade of white.
The Teeth Whitening Process
Opalescence whitening gives you a brighter smile using custom trays made just for your teeth. First, we take impressions of your mouth to create trays that fit perfectly. This means the whitening gel stays right where it needs to be and won’t irritate your gums.
You’ll take the trays home with professional-strength whitening gel. Just fill the trays with gel and wear them for a short time each day. The gel works deep to break up stains from coffee, wine, and other foods. Most of our patients see noticeable results in just a few days.
Unlike store-bought kits, our professional whitening is safer and more effective. We control the strength of the gel so it works without causing too much sensitivity. The custom trays prevent the gel from leaking like one-size-fits-all strips do. Plus, your results will last much longer than what you can get from drugstore products.
We’ll give you simple instructions and be available if you have questions. The whole process is easy, and you’ll love how your smile looks when you’re done. With proper care, your bright smile can last for months before you need a quick touch-up.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
How long will my teeth stay white after treatment?
Professional whitening results typically last between 6 months to 2 years. What you eat and drink can stain your teeth again faster. Brushing twice daily and getting regular cleanings helps maintain the brightness. We’ll give you tips to help your results last as long as possible.
Is professional teeth whitening safe for sensitive teeth?
Absolutely! We use special formulas designed for sensitive teeth. We can adjust the whitening gel strength to make sure you stay comfortable. Many of our patients with sensitivity are surprised by how gentle professional whitening can be. Just let us know about your sensitivity so we can customize your treatment.
Will whitening work on my crowns or veneers?
Whitening only works on natural teeth, not dental work like crowns or veneers. If you have these restorations, we can match them to your newly whitened teeth. This way, everything blends together naturally. It’s best to whiten first, then we’ll adjust any dental work to match your brighter smile.
Is professional whitening better than store kits?
Professional whitening works much better than anything you can buy at the store. Our treatments use stronger whitening gel in custom trays that fit your teeth perfectly. Store-bought strips often whiten unevenly and don’t last as long. You’ll see better results in less time with our professional system.
Can I whiten my teeth while wearing braces?
It’s better to wait until after your braces come off to whiten your teeth. The brackets will block the whitening gel and leave uneven spots if you did try. Once your orthodontic treatment is complete, we can give you a beautifully even whitening result. Your patience will pay off with a perfectly straight and bright smile.
Will teeth whitening make my teeth look unnaturally white?
Professional whitening gives you a brighter version of your natural tooth color, not a fake-looking white. We customize the treatment to match what looks best for your smile. Most people achieve a shade that looks clean and vibrant while still looking like real enamel. You’ll be able to choose how white you want to go during your consultation with us.
How soon after whitening can I drink coffee or wine?
Wait at least 48 hours after whitening before having dark drinks. Your teeth are more likely to absorb stains right after treatment. If you can’t resist, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth. Water is always the safest choice for keeping your smile bright.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have cavities?
It’s best to fix cavities before whitening. The whitening gel can irritate teeth with untreated decay and cause painful sensitivity. We’ll check for cavities during your exam and take care of them first. Whitening works best on healthy teeth, so this ensures you get great results without pain.
Does whitening work on gray or brown stains?
Whitening works best on yellow stains, but can still improve some gray or brown discoloration. The results may take longer for these tougher stains. If whitening doesn’t fully remove them, we can discuss other options like veneers and bonding. Bring photos of your smile goals so we can suggest the best treatment.
How old do you need to be to whiten your teeth?
We recommend waiting until at least age 16 for whitening treatments. Teen teeth are still developing and may be more sensitive. Younger patients should focus on good brushing habits first. Parents can bring teens in for a consultation to see if whitening is right for them.
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Keeping Your New White Smile
After your teeth whitening treatment, you’ll want to keep your smile looking its best. Here are some tips to maintain your bright teeth:
- Brush and floss more than twice a day to remove surface stains and prevent new discoloration
- Use a whitening toothpaste to help elongate the results
- Avoid or limit staining foods and drinks like coffee, tea, wine, and dark-colored sauces
- Use a straw as much as possible when drinking beverages that can stain your teeth to minimize contact with the enamel
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to keep your teeth healthy and bright
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
Are you ready to brighten your teeth in Carol Stream and Elgin, IL? Call one of our local dental offices today or request an appointment online anytime. We are your dental home for patient-centered care.