Teeth Whitening in North Carolina

Providing quality cosmetic dentistry in Durham, Raleigh, and Goldsboro.

Are you preparing for an upcoming event? Do you wish you had a whiter smile? If so, we can help. At Carolina Dental Arts, our professional teeth whitening treatments brighten your teeth quickly and effectively, surpassing over-the-counter products. Whether you choose our in-office or at-home whitening systems, you can achieve a smile that’s several shades lighter. If you’re dissatisfied with other whitening methods, don’t worry—you can trust that our expert solutions will beautifully enhance your smile.

Why Do Teeth Stain?

There are many causes of tooth staining—some that are within our control and others that are not.

Extrinsic stains are those that we generally have some control over. They affect the tooth’s enamel and result from lifestyle habits and dietary choices. Smoking tobacco, drinking beverages like coffee, tea, and soda, and eating certain foods like vibrant berries and dark sauces can cause stains and discoloration. Once you’ve had your teeth whitened, it’s important to avoid or limit these products to maintain your beautiful results.

Intrinsic stains affect the deeper layers of the tooth beneath the enamel. These are often harder to treat, and you may be unable to prevent them. Some causes of these internal tooth stains are excessive fluoride use, taking tetracycline during tooth development, or tooth injury. Tooth decay or cavities can also affect the color of your teeth. With tooth-colored fillings, we can treat cavities, protecting the tooth from further damage and restoring its appearance.

Additionally, as you age, you may notice that your teeth aren’t as white as they once were. This is a result of both extrinsic and intrinsic factors. While it’s natural for enamel to thin with age, enjoying stain-causing foods and beverages over the years can also affect the whiteness of your teeth.

Taking certain medications and having poor oral hygiene can also make teeth appear dull and discolored. However, while stains and discolorations are common, you don’t have to settle for them.

Understanding Teeth Whitening at Carolina Dental Arts

Teeth whitening is an incredibly popular cosmetic dentistry procedure because it is safe, quick, and effective. At Carolina Dental Arts, we use the Philips Zoom! whitening system. The gel used in this system is formulated to penetrate beyond the tooth’s surface, removing stubborn stains quickly.

We provide both in-office treatments and at-home kits so that you can pick an approach that works best for you.

In-Office Teeth Bleaching

Our in-office teeth whitening procedure gives you a brighter smile in about an hour. During the process, we will apply a specially formulated whitening gel to your teeth. Activated with a special light, the gel effectively breaks down the molecular bonds holding the stains to your teeth. To ensure your comfort and safety, we use a special covering that goes over your gums and mouth so that only your teeth are exposed to the teeth-bleaching agent.

This treatment can make your teeth up to 8 shades whiter in just one visit. After the procedure, a post-treatment gel reduces sensitivity, ensuring a comfortable experience. The results are long-lasting and customized to meet your specific needs, giving you a dazzling smile that lasts.

At-Home Whitening Kits

At-home whitening kits also use an advanced whitening gel to break the stain’s molecular bonds. However, you can apply the solution from the comfort of your own home and at your convenience.

This system uses trays customized to fit your teeth exactly. This precise fit ensures that the whitening gel is applied evenly. You wear the trays for 30-90 minutes per day, once or twice daily. In as little as two weeks, you’ll see a noticeable difference in the whiteness of your smile!

Professional Teeth Whitening vs. Store-Bought Products

Store-bought whitening products, such as over-the-counter whitening toothpaste, may seem like a convenient and affordable option for brightening your smile. However, these products often fall short compared to professional whitening treatments. Did you know that some over-the-counter whitening toothpaste can actually harm your teeth? While they can lighten your smile to some extent, they frequently contain harsh substances that wear away at your enamel. This erosion can lead to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of cavities, ultimately compromising your dental health.

At Carolina Dental Arts, we offer whitening options that are both safe for your enamel and highly effective. Our professional treatments, such as the Philips Zoom procedure, use advanced formulas specifically designed to protect your teeth while delivering impressive results. Unlike store-bought products, our treatments are customized to your individual needs, ensuring optimal whitening and long-lasting outcomes. By choosing professional whitening, you can achieve a brighter, healthier smile without the risks associated with over-the-counter products.

Try One-Hour Teeth Whitening at Carolina Dental Arts

Professional teeth whitening enhances your smile safely and effectively, providing results that over-the-counter products simply can’t match. At Carolina Dental Arts, we offer both at-home and in-office whitening options tailored to meet your individual needs. As part of our comprehensive range of cosmetic dentistry services, our whitening treatments ensure that your teeth look their best while maintaining their health.

We invite you to schedule a visit with us to explore how we can help you achieve a brighter, more confident smile. Contact us today to learn more about our services and to book your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does teeth whitening last?

Our in-office treatment provides immediate results that can last for years with proper care. Maintaining your stunning new smile requires you to:

Commit to a consistent oral hygiene routine
Maintain regular dental cleanings
Avoid or limit common stain-causing foods, beverages, and habits

Our at-home kits are a great option for addressing stains and maintaining the results of in-office whitening treatments.

If you are looking for a more permanent whitening solution, you may be interested in porcelain veneers. These thin shells cover your natural teeth, allowing you to design your perfect smile.

Does teeth whitening hurt?

Teeth whitening is generally a comfortable procedure for most people. While some may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or mild gum irritation, these effects are typically short-lived and manageable. The sensitivity is usually due to the whitening agents temporarily opening the pores of the teeth, but this is easily addressed with desensitizing toothpaste or gels.

If you have sensitive teeth and gums, let us know, and we will help you determine the best path forward. With proper care and guidance, teeth whitening can be a smooth and effective way to achieve a brighter smile.