Dr. Alexander offers professional teeth whitening in Jacksonville, FL. One of the most popular procedures in cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening is a quick, effective, and fairly inexpensive way to improve the look of your smile. Our dentist can also use teeth whitening in combination with other cosmetic and restorative dentistry procedures as part of a total smile makeover.
A good life is full of big moments. Maybe you’re about to walk down the aisle at your storybook wedding to the partner of your dreams? Maybe you have an interview coming up for the job you’ve always wanted? You’ll want to look and feel your best. But maybe you feel awkward when you smile because your teeth aren’t so pearly white anymore. Maybe your confidence needs a boost?
If you can relate with the above, professional teeth whitening treatments may be just what you need to smile your best smile! If you are in the Jacksonville FL area, Alexander Dentistry can help.
Dr. Alexander provides professional teeth whitening systems at his dental office. He also provides kits that you can use in the comfort of your own home. We carefully select professional bleaching brands that only boost results and decrease tooth and gum sensitivity.
What Causes Teeth Discoloration?
Even if you’ve loyally cared for your teeth by brushing and flossing as advised by your dentist, teeth stains will still occur naturally over time. Smoking, chewing tobacco, drinking coffee daily, tea, cola, and red wine can stain teeth even quicker. Even certain prescription medications can cause deep stains as a side effect.
Your dentist recommends brushing twice daily and flossing at least once daily. This can slow this discoloration down and help your smile stay brighter and healthier longer. However, it cannot reverse this process entirely.
Jacksonville FL dentist Dr. Alexander offers patients the option of in-office or take-home teeth whitening. Both treatments restore a more youthful appearance for your teeth by removing years’ worth of stains and discoloration. A fresh, white smile can boost your self-esteem and make you ready to meet whatever challenge you’re facing.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
Our most immediate method of teeth whitening is the in-office procedure. This procedure takes a little over an hour and can produce results up to ten shades lighter. Your results will vary depending on the severity and source of stains. For example certain stains from medicines are more difficult to erase completely. Dr. Alexander will discuss expected results prior to your treatment during your consultation.
The process of in-office teeth whitening is simple. First, we set up a protective barrier for your gums against the bleaching chemicals. Next, we brush a layer of maximum strength bleaching gel onto your teeth and activate the ingredients with a special UV light. We may need to repeat this procedure many times over many months if you want to keep long-lasting results.
At-Home Teeth Whitening
A more convenient method for whitening your tooth enamel is at-home teeth whitening. This method utilizes custom-fitted whitening trays that Dr. Alexander creates in the office. We use state-of-the-art software and tools to create exact-fit trays. The take-home kit provides far better results than other options for sale at your local drugstores, such as whitening strips and toothpaste.
At home, you will fill the trays with whitening gel and fit them over your teeth for the required length of time. You will usually wear them overnight while you sleep. The bleaching gel — which contains fluoride — will remove stains while also reducing sensitivity and strengthening your enamel. After about a week of regular use, your teeth will look dramatically whiter.
Our dentists only use teeth whitening products that will minimize tooth sensitivity. Dr. Alexander carefully supervises teeth whitening treatments.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
Will teeth whitening give me permanent tooth sensitivity?
No. All types of teeth whitening procedures (whether at the dentist or not) will give you some sort of tooth sensitivity. But it is not permanent! Tooth sensitivity occurs as a chemical reaction on your tooth enamel from the hydrogen peroxide reacting to stains.
What is the best way to avoid tooth sensitivity after teeth whitening?
The best way to avoid tooth sensitivity after teeth whitening is by using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Toothpaste for sensitive teeth helps to repair damaged enamel, which may have been caused by the enamel-removing process of a tooth whitening treatment. Look for toothpastes containing sodium fluoride (to help re-mineralize the surface), silica gel (to protect teeth from acid erosion) and other natural ingredients that target sensitivity.
Is teeth whitening permanent?
No. Teeth whitening is not a one-and-done treatment, and will not permanently whiten your teeth. Your teeth will not stay perfectly white forever, no matter the type of teeth whitening service you get. Teeth stain over time, so to keep your teeth white for long periods, you will need periodic follow-up treatments. Beware of services that offer permanent results.
Can dental insurance cover my teeth whitening procedure?
No, most dental insurance providers will not cover this service. They see it as an elective dental service, and not necessary for the health of your mouth and teeth.
How do I know if I’m a candidate for teeth whitening?
To be a candidate for teeth whitening, you should have healthy gums and no cavities. You should also have healthy tooth enamel and not have any dental work done in the past six months.
Schedule a Teeth Whitening Consultation
The teeth whitening procedure is a popular cosmetic dental treatment to enhance the look and beauty of your healthy smile. Visit us to discuss which teeth whitening treatment would work best for your dental hygiene goals. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Alexander and his dental care team in Jacksonville, Florida.