Teeth Whitening Washington, DC - Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. (2024)

Teeth Whitening Washington, DC - Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. (1)

Have you noticed that your teeth are more discolored than they used to be?

Teeth discoloration is a natural part of aging and lifestyle choices, but professional teeth whitening can help you turn back the clock.

The dentists at Thornton Dental Associates, P.C., help Washington DC patients safely achieve whiter teeth.

Benefits Of In-Office Teeth Whitening

There are hundreds of whitening products on the market, from toothpaste to whitening strips, that promise to whiten your teeth. However, these products aren't the most effective way to whiten your teeth when compared to the many benefits of our DC in-office whitening:

Accuracy

With at-home products, the accuracy of whitening is not guaranteed. That's because these products aren't customized for each user. With in-office whitening, the doctor can adjust the strength of the whitening gel to meet your desires.

Safety

Your lips and gums are protected with coverings before whitening. Also, the dentist will apply a post-treatment gel to your teeth to prevent tooth sensitivity and enamel damage after bleaching. This is a perk you don't get with at-home whitening.

Speed

The entire process of in-office teeth whitening takes 45 minutes in total, and patients leave with stunning results. This differs from at-home products, like whitening strips, that often take multiple 30-minute or longer sessions to see the same results.

Up-Front Cost

At first, this may seem more expensive than buying whitening toothpaste and strips, but you'll have to use these products for several months to see results that are accomplished immediately with in-office teeth whitening at an up-front cost.

What Causes Discoloration?

Poor dental hygiene isn't the sole cause of discoloration, unlike many other oral health concerns. While plaque buildup can make your teeth appear yellow, other factors are involved in tooth discoloration:

Age

Yellowing teeth are a natural part of aging. As we age, our enamel wears down, exposing the yellow dentin underneath.

Beverages

Dark beverages, like wine and coffee, can stain your teeth.

Tobacco

Tobacco products, including cigarettes and chewing tobacco, can stain your teeth.

Medication

Certain medications, like antibiotics, can stain your teeth. If you notice sudden discoloration, see if your medicine is to blame.

Trauma

Broken, cracked, and chipped teeth can cause internal bleeding that makes your teeth appear darker.

Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Stains

Extrinsic stains are caused by external factors that you can control, such as what you drink, eat, and if you smoke. The stain is on the external layer of enamel, making whitening an ideal treatment to correct the discoloration. Intrinsic stains are often caused by factors you can't control, such as dental trauma, medical conditions and treatment, and genetics. These stains are located on the inside of the tooth and aren't often responsive to teeth whitening and benefit more from veneers or dental crowns.

Do You Qualify For Teeth Whitening? Request a Consultation

If you have good oral health and want a brighter smile, you likely are a good candidate for in-office teeth whitening at our DC location.

Our dentists are here to customize your teeth whitening treatment to your needs. Using the highest standard of dental technology, our team can help you get the smile you've been dreaming of.

To see if you qualify for teeth whitening, call to request a whitening consultation at our Washington, DC, office:

(202) 293-5805

Send Us a Message

Teeth Whitening Washington, DC - Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. (2)

"They are careful with my sensitive teeth!" 5-Star Reviews From DC Patients

Teeth Whitening Washington, DC - Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. (3)

Samantha Forcum

2022

Teeth Whitening Washington, DC - Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. (4)

I absolutely love this dentist and all the hygienists! They are so professional but also fun and friendly. The office is clean, the music is enjoyable to bop along to while you’re in the chair, and they are informative about the process/careful with my sensitive teeth!

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Jenn N

2022

Teeth Whitening Washington, DC - Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. (6)

I've been a patient here for going on 14 years, and the staff and dentists are phenomenal. I've always been a nervous, on-edge patient at the dentist, but the folks are compassionate, non-judgmental, and gentle, and they've made it possible for me to get regular dental care instead of avoiding it as I used to do.

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We Offer Zoom! In-Office Teeth Whitening About the Product

Using a hydrogen peroxide gel and a whitening lamp, Zoom! allows even patients with sensitive teeth to experience a brighter smile.

Teeth Whitening Washington, DC - Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. (7)

Whitening Gel

Zoom! uses a 25% hydrogen peroxide gel to whiten teeth. This percentage of hydrogen peroxide has been proven to whiten teeth by several shades while providing comfort for patients with sensitive teeth.

Teeth Whitening Washington, DC - Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. (8)

Whitening Lamp

We use the WhiteSpeed blue LED lamp to activate the whitening gel. This activation breaks down hydrogen peroxide to allow oxygen to enter the enamel and dentin of your teeth, bleaching stains, and discoloration.

Teeth Whitening Timeline With Zoom! In-Office Whitening Treatment

With our whitening treatment, patients can improve the whiteness of their smile in just 45 minutes.
With our whitening treatment, patients can improve the whiteness of their smile in just 45 minutes.

Shade Evaluation

Our dentists will begin the process of whitening your teeth by evaluating your current shade and determining the strength of the gel to get your desired shade results.

Prepping The Mouth

Your dentist will then prep your lips and gums with a protective covering to avoid the gel harming these areas of your mouth during the procedure.

Applying The Gel

Your dentist will then apply a layer of whitening gel along your teeth and use a WhiteSpeed blue LED lamp to activate the whitening gel. The lamp's settings are adjustable, so your dentist can select the right amount to get you to your desired shade without harming your teeth.

Waiting Period

Each session under the lamp is 15 minutes, and three sessions are required to see results, making the treatment a total of 45 minutes.

Revealing Your Smile

Once your time under the lamp is complete and you've reached your desired shade, your dentist will apply a post-whitening gel that protects your enamel and reduces tooth sensitivity.

Request a Consultation

Maintaining Your Results

Watch What You Drink

Dark liquids, such as red wine and coffee, can stain your teeth, making them appear discolored. To keep your smile white for longer, avoid these beverages or drink through a straw and rinse your mouth with water after consuming them.

Quit Smoking

Smoking and tobacco use can cause deep dental stains. Not only is smoking dangerous for you internally, but the effects can show externally. To make the most of your new white teeth, quit smoking to prevent new stains.

Maintain Good Dental Hygiene

The whiteness of your teeth isn't solely dependent on your dental hygiene. That's why you can have a healthy smile but stained teeth. However, brushing and flossing will keep your teeth clear of plaque buildup that can make your teeth appear discolored.

"Truly the best dentist I’ve ever had." 5-Star Reviews From DC Patients

Teeth Whitening Washington, DC - Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. (9)

Cecilia Papariello

2022

Teeth Whitening Washington, DC - Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. (10)

I switched here after a bad dentist experience. Truly the best dentist I’ve ever had, and the hygienists are so gentle and kind! Everyone is very patient and takes time with you to explain options.

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Alissa Swango

2022

Teeth Whitening Washington, DC - Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. (12)

I am a new patient and was referred to this office by a friend. Since the very first intake call, I have been unexpectedly over- impressed by this dental office. I have never once had a reason to say that ever in my life.

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Teeth Whitening Washington, DC - Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. (2024)

FAQs

What is the most effective teeth whitening method? ›

laser teeth whitening is the safest, quickest, and most effective option among the types of teeth-whitening treatments available. However, there are ultimately several ways to whiten teeth, and the most suitable option will depend on your timeline, budget, and priorities, as well as the nature of the discoloration.

How long does hydrogen peroxide take to whiten teeth? ›

Generally at this concentration you would need to have your teeth in contact with the 3% hydrogen peroxide for about 5 hours a day for about 2-3 weeks to have meaningful tooth whitening, which is very difficult to do with a watery liquid.

Can yellow teeth become white again? ›

What Can Be Done to Whiten Yellow Teeth? If you're looking for a radical change in the coloring of your teeth, you need professional-grade whitening to get the job done. Your cosmetic dentist can provide treatment that penetrates deep into the enamel and removes years of stains with a powerful bleaching agent.

Is 6% hydrogen peroxide safe for teeth whitening? ›

Choose the right concentration: A low concentration of Hydrogen Peroxide (around 3% to 6%) is safe to use for teeth whitening usually without any side effects. Hydrogen Peroxide can produce certain side effects like gum or tooth sensitivity if used often in high concentration.

How to whiten teeth over 60? ›

If you want to whiten aging yellow teeth, you should make an appointment and head to your dentist's office. This option is a bit more expensive than purchasing tubes of toothpaste and packages of whitening trays from the store, but it is safer and more effective overall.

What is the least damaging way to whiten your teeth? ›

Baking Soda: As long as you are careful to brush gently, baking soda can eliminate stains from the surface of your teeth without damaging them. Whitening Strips: Whitening strips mold to the shape of your teeth to whiten them. Whitening strips are both safe and effective.

What happens if you leave hydrogen peroxide on teeth too long? ›

It is not recommended that you leave hydrogen peroxide on your teeth overnight as it could cause erosion to your tooth enamel or irritation to your gums.

Does swishing hydrogen peroxide whiten teeth? ›

A simple hydrogen peroxide mouthwash may help remove mild stains. However, a person should avoid leaving hydrogen peroxide solutions on their teeth for extended periods. For people who have darker stains, stronger whitening options are available both over the counter and from a dentist.

How fast does baking soda whiten teeth? ›

But on average, it can start to remove surface stains within just 2 days. However, it may take as long as two to three weeks to notice small noticeable results. Severity of Stains. The time it takes to see results with baking soda depends on the severity and nature of the stains.

How to whiten teeth in 2 minutes? ›

Just mix a teaspoon of baking powder and a teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice and brush your teeth with the paste this mixture will work wonders in just two minutes.

Can baking soda whiten teeth? ›

Baking soda can be used with some water to remove the stains on the surface of the teeth. It can also be used with hydrogen peroxide to enhance its whitening effects. Baking soda can be used by individuals with regular toothpastes too. It is also used commercially in some teeth whitening products and toothpastes.

What vitamin deficiency causes yellow teeth? ›

In adults, low vitamin D status can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease. Does vitamin D deficiency cause yellow teeth? Yes, vitamin D deficiency can show up as yellow teeth. Yellow or brown spots on teeth are a symptom of rickets, a condition caused by chronic low levels of vitamin D.

Is it okay to brush your teeth with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide? ›

For deeper cleaning, people safely can mix baking soda with a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to create a toothpaste. However, since hydrogen peroxide can sting, people with sensitive teeth and gums should discontinue using this paste if they experience pain or discomfort.

Does coconut oil whiten teeth? ›

Some claim coconut oil offers benefits like healthier gums, plaque removal, and even whiter teeth. But before you make oil pulling part of your morning routine, it's important to ask, “Does coconut oil really whiten teeth?” It turns out that oil probably won't offer you significant oral benefits.

What strength hydrogen peroxide do dentists use? ›

Today, most dentists use hydrogen and carbamide peroxide gels between 10-40%, which are chemically activated or by different light sources, such as halogen light, laser or plasma arc [9], See (Table ​1).

References

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