No matter how perfect your oral care routine is, you’ll likely experience some form of tooth discoloration throughout your lifetime. Fortunately, dental stains can be removed through a variety of teeth whitening treatments. While over-the-counter products can provide gradual enhancement, Hulse Dental reminds patients in-office teeth whitening offers the brightest and longest-lasting results. If you’re new to dentist-provided treatment, Dentist Dr. Hulse of Onalaska, WI, shares a few things to know about your options.

Your Guide to In-Office Teeth Whitening Treatments

Whitening Gels

The majority of in-office whitening treatments involve the use of specialized bleaching formulas, or gels, that are applied directly to the teeth. There are several different products your doctor may offer, but they all produce results with their own proprietary formula, with hydrogen peroxide acting as the main ingredient. The strength of hydrogen peroxide is relatively stronger than what may be found in over-the-counter strips or gels, allowing patients to experience unparalleled radiance.

Today, the treatment can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the system your dental provider uses. If you take care to brush regularly, keep up with dental cleanings, and avoid staining foods and drinks, you can enjoy results for six months or longer before a touchup is needed.

Deep Bleaching

Although in-office whitening gels are incredibly effective, they are designed to remove extrinsic staining—discoloration that occurs on the enamel surface of the tooth. If you have intrinsic staining on the inside of the teeth, it can be harder to whiten your smile. Fortunately, new deep-bleaching treatments are emerging to tackle interior discoloration.

Deep bleaching involves a multi-step process that can take a long time to achieve the maximum level of brightness. The treatment starts with an in-office session that conditions your teeth to absorb more of the bleaching formula. Next, you’ll apply a whitening gel at home every night for about two weeks using custom trays. You’ll return to your dentist again for a final review and may be instructed to continue at-home bleaching periodically for up to a year. Despite the amount of work that goes into this method, it can offer permanent results if done correctly.  

If you’re looking for reliable teeth whitening in Onalaska, WI, Hulse Dental offers a wide range of advanced cosmetic dentistry treatments that can brighten your smile. In addition to in-office bleaching, as your family dentist, Dr. Hulse offers other services that enhance your teeth’s appearance, including state-of-the-art dental crowns and veneers. To learn more about your options or schedule an appointment, contact them at (608) 783-1306.