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If you’re unhappy with dull, yellow, or darkening teeth, you’re not alone; many people yearn for brighter smiles as they age. Rainier Dental proudly provides multiple teeth whitening solutions at their four offices in Bonney Lake, Sumner, Puyallup, and Tacoma, Washington. The expert dental team works with you to ensure your newly whitened teeth align with your lifestyle, budget, and expectations, helping you achieve the radiant smile you deserve. Call today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.
Teeth Whitening Q&A
What is teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening lightens the shade of your teeth for a more attractive appearance. This quick cosmetic treatment delivers instant results that can significantly brighten your smile.
While over-the-counter (OTC) whitening solutions can help remove extrinsic (surface) stains, they’re not as effective as professional treatments. Chairside whitening and custom-made trays contain higher concentrations of whitening agents to target extrinsic and intrinsic (deep) stains.
Rainier Dental offers several professional-grade teeth whitening treatments to suit your needs, goals, budget, and lifestyle.
How does teeth whitening work?
Teeth whitening removes stains through a chemical process that involves applying hydrogen or carbamide peroxide to your teeth. The whitening agent penetrates the hard enamel that protects your teeth and causes a reaction that breaks down stain molecules, making them easy to remove.
This process is safe and effective when performed by experienced dental professionals, like the team at Rainier Dental.
What happens during teeth whitening?
There are two types of teeth whitening the Rainier Dental team may recommend:
Chairside whitening
Chairside whitening is the fastest solution for dramatic results. When you arrive at Rainier Dental, your dentist places a barrier that protects your lips and gums. Next, they apply a whitening solution, which they activate with a laser or LED light. Your dentist may repeat this process until you achieve your desired results.
Take-home whitening trays
Take-home trays are custom-made and molded to the shape of your teeth. Your dentist provides the trays and a professional-grade whitening solution that you can wear for a few minutes a day, overnight, or as directed. This method offers a flexible, convenient solution that allows you to whiten your teeth on your own terms.
After an initial consultation, the dental team can recommend the best type of teeth whitening for your needs and goals.
How can I extend my teeth whitening results?
Taking a few steps can help you maintain your newly whitened smile. These tips include:
- Using a straw to drink red wine, coffee, and tea
- Limiting consumption of tooth-staining foods (soy sauce, berries, curry, etc.)
- Avoiding smoking and chewing tobacco
- Brushing and flossing regularly
- Getting regular teeth cleanings
- Returning for touch-up treatments
If you visit for chairside whitening, the dental team may recommend getting take-home trays to maintain your results.
Call Rainier Dental today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about teeth whitening.