Achieving a Whiter Brighter Smile

Tooth color changes for a bunch of normal reasons, including:

• Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sodas
   
• Smoking or vaping
   
• Natural aging (enamel thins; yellow dentin shows more)
   
• Certain medications or past trauma
   
• Plaque and surface stains from inconsistent cleaning

Best for: a quick glow-up before an event
What to expect: stronger whitening gel used safely under professional care

Results: typically noticeable the same day
Bonus: great if you want the most dramatic change

Best for: gradual, even whitening with less sensitivity
What to expect: custom-fit trays + professional-grade gel for home use
Results: builds over 1–2 weeks (varies by starting shade)

Best for: keeping results bright and reducing surface stains
What to expect: doesn’t “bleach” teeth dramatically, but helps prevent staining
Tip: think of this as your long-term maintenance plan

Whitening works great for:

• Yellow and light brown stains
   
• Surface stains from food/drinks
   

Whitening may not change:

• Crowns, veneers, bonding (they don’t whiten)
   
• Some deep internal stains (like gray tones or certain medication stains)
   

If you have crowns or bonding on front teeth, we can plan whitening first, then color-match restorations afterward for the most natural look.

• Use a sensitivity toothpaste (starting 1–2 weeks before whitening)
   
• Avoid very hot/cold foods right after whitening sessions
   
• Follow recommended wear times (more is not better)
   
• Ask about desensitizing gel if you’re prone to sensitivity

• Rinse with water after coffee/tea
   
• Use a straw for darker drinks when possible
   
• Brush and floss consistently
   
• Get regular cleanings (polish removes surface stains)
   
• Touch up as needed with your preferred method