Teeth Whitening in VA

Teeth whitening is suitable for most people, especially those with stains or discoloration due to smoking or dietary habits. However, if you have discolored teeth due to medications or other reasons, we can recommend procedures that will provide the same gleaming white teeth. Dental restorations can also prevent tooth whitening because they won't whiten to the same shade as your natural teeth. However, we have other products and procedures that may help you. Call our VA office for more information on teeth whitening, and we'll be happy to answer all your questions.

Which Is Better, Professional Teeth Whitening or DIY?

 You may have used the DIY tooth whitening products available at your local pharmacy or box store and been less than satisfied with the results. If this is the case, then professional tooth whitening can be your answer. The products we use in the office are stronger and more effective than those you buy over the counter, so you'll achieve better results in less time with an in-office procedure than you would at home.

Sometimes, after a procedure, your dentist will recommend follow-up treatments either at home or in our office. If they recommend at-home treatments, you'll be provided with customized trays and the same professional-grade tooth bleaching gel that we use in our office. Many patients can lighten their teeth up to six shades when they use our professional kits at home. If you opt for at-home treatment only using our professional kit, you'll still need an office appointment for the dentist to examine your teeth and recommend the best whitening product for your unique needs.

What's the Procedure for In-Office Teeth Whitening?

 When you come to our office for your teeth whitening procedure, you can generally expect the following procedure:

1. Your teeth bleaching dentist will examine your teeth and then clean them.
2. We'll take photos to determine the best tooth shade and to help us monitor your progress during the procedure.
3. Your dentist will put a cheek retractor in your mouth to protect your lips and expose your teeth.
4. We'll apply a layer of protective liquid to your gums.
5. We'll apply the first of several layers of bleaching gel, and each layer will be removed before we apply the next one.
6. We may use a special light to enhance the whitening and speed up the process.
7. When we've applied the predetermined number of layers of bleaching gel, your dentist will evaluate your progress. We'll then determine how many follow-up treatments you need. Most patients require at least one follow-up visit.

What's the Teeth Whitening Cost?

Your teeth whitening cost will be unique to you and will be determined by several factors, including:

• The degree of whiteness desired
• The number of treatments you'll need
• The number of follow-up treatments you'll need
• The type of product selected
• Any insurance coverage you have

Typically, insurance doesn't cover teeth whitening because it's considered an elective cosmetic procedure. However, there are exceptions, and cosmetic insurance is available, so check with your provider to determine the extent of your benefits.

During your initial consultation, we'll provide you with a comprehensive estimate of your teeth bleaching cost. If financing is an issue, let us know, and we'll work with you. Call our VA office if you have any questions.

What's the Comparison of At-Home Teeth Whitening Products vs Professional Whitening?

 A professional tooth whitening is quicker and more effective than the teeth whitening at-home products you can buy at the local pharmacy. In addition, if you have reconstructive dentistry, such as fillings, crowns, implants, and so forth, they won't respond to the bleaching gel, so you'll have unevenly colored teeth. When you have the whitening procedure in our VA office, we'll monitor your progress to ensure you have a quality outcome, and we'll make sure not to get the bleaching gel on your gums or teeth. If you have additional questions, be sure to call us, and we'll be happy to answer them.

Need to Schedule Teeth Whitening in VA?

 If you'd like to schedule tooth whitening in our VA office, call Dental Care of Alexandria & McLean at , and we'll put you on the schedule. Our dentists are among the best for tooth whitening, and we're sure you'll be happy with your beautiful white smile.

Call us today. We look forward to speaking with you.