Our practice logo
(724) 935-2100Schedule an appointment

Professional Teeth Whitening in Wexford, PA

What is Professional Teeth Whitening?

Professional teeth whitening, also known as in-office teeth whitening, is a process done by a cosmetic dentist to dramatically whiten and brighten your smile. During a professional whitening session, the dentist will apply a high-concentration peroxide-based gel to your teeth and use a specialized light to activate the whitening gel. This enables the gel to penetrate deep into the teeth to lift away years of discoloration and stains from coffee, wine, smoking, and other habits. The results are seen instantly, and teeth can become up to eight shades whiter in just one 30-60 minute treatment.

Professional whitening provides the fastest and most dramatic whitening results compared to at-home kits. With the guidance of Dr. Gabriel, professional whitening safely whitens teeth while keeping the integrity of enamel intact. The high-concentration whitening gel is carefully monitored and applied by Dr. Gabriel to avoid sensitivity or other side effects from whitening procedures. He will also customize the treatment based on your goals and level of staining.

Get Your Brightest Smile Yet with Dr. Gabriel

Achieving your brightest, most confident smile is important. If you’re unhappy with the current color of your teeth, whether from intrinsic stains, food and drink habits, medications, or simply aging over time, professional teeth whitening may be right for you. Under the care of Dr. Paul Gabrielour Wexford, PA cosmetic dentist, professional whitening provides the safest, most dramatic way to whiten your teeth quickly and effectively. Our experienced dental team uses advanced LED light technology to enhance your smile’s shade by up to eight levels in just one or two visits. 

With customized whitening treatments, we can help you reveal a smile that looks natural and illuminates your whole face. Contact us today by dialing (724) 935-2100 to schedule a smile evaluation and discussion to determine if you’re a candidate for professional take-home or in-office whitening services.

Why Do Teeth Stain?

  • Age: As individuals age, a natural transformation occurs in the composition of tooth enamel. Over time, the outer layer of enamel becomes less opaque, gradually allowing the underlying dentin, with its naturally yellowish hue, to become more visible. This age-related process is entirely normal and affects everyone to some degree. It’s important to note that while this is a natural occurrence, it can lead to a perceived dulling or yellowing of the teeth, prompting many individuals to seek teeth whitening solutions.
  • Smoking: The use of tobacco products, including smoking, introduces a host of harmful chemicals into the mouth. These substances not only pose serious risks to overall oral health, but they also lead to persistent and deeply ingrained stains on the teeth. The stains caused by smoking are particularly challenging to remove through regular brushing and flossing alone. This makes professional whitening procedures an essential option for those looking to rejuvenate their smile after tobacco use.
  • Food and Drink: Certain dietary choices play a significant role in the staining of teeth. Beverages like coffee and tea, which are widely consumed, contain pigments that can adhere to tooth enamel over time. Similarly, indulging in red wine or enjoying colorful fruits like berries can contribute to noticeable discoloration. These pigments gradually build up, resulting in stains that can detract from the natural brightness of the teeth. For many, seeking professional teeth whitening becomes a practical step in restoring a vibrant smile.
  • Medication: Some medications and antibiotics contain compounds that may alter the natural coloration of tooth enamel. Prolonged use of these substances can lead to gradual and sometimes noticeable changes in tooth color. While the therapeutic benefits of these medications are crucial, they can inadvertently contribute to staining. This underscores the importance of exploring teeth whitening solutions as a means of mitigating these effects and revitalizing one’s smile.
  • Trauma: Physical trauma to the teeth can have lasting effects on their appearance. Injuries that disrupt the enamel’s structure can lead to changes in tooth color. This is particularly true for cases where the dentin, which naturally has a yellowish tint, becomes more prominent. Additionally, certain oral infections can cause yellowing or darkening of the teeth, compounding issues related to tooth discoloration.
  • Dry Mouth: Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a condition characterized by reduced saliva production. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by helping to wash away acids and residues that can lead to stains. When saliva production is inadequate, stains are more likely to set in and become more pronounced. Factors like certain medications and medical conditions can contribute to this condition, further emphasizing the need for teeth-whitening solutions to counteract the effects.
  • Food Particles: Foods with vibrant pigments, such as berries, sauces, and fruit juices, can leave residues on tooth surfaces. Over time, these pigments can accumulate and contribute to temporary stains. Regular and thorough brushing and flossing are essential in effectively removing these particles and preventing them from causing noticeable discoloration. This daily oral hygiene routine is a critical component of maintaining a bright and healthy smile.

For residents near Wexford, PA dealing with severe intrinsic staining or gradual yellowing over time, professional whitening with Dr. Gabriel is an effective and safe cosmetic solution.

The LED Whitening Process

The professional teeth whitening procedure utilizes a specialized LED light to activate the high-concentration peroxide gel and speed up the whitening process. Here is how it works:

Preparation and Assessment

The LED whitening process kicks off with a comprehensive examination of the patient’s teeth and gums. This step is crucial in evaluating the nature and extent of staining, allowing the dental professional to formulate a tailored treatment plan. Factors such as existing dental conditions are also taken into account to ensure the procedure’s suitability. This is also the best time to ask Dr. Gabriel any questions you may have about the process

Protective Measures

Before the whitening gel is applied, protective measures are put in place. A specialized gel or shield is carefully administered to shield the gums and surrounding soft tissues. This precautionary step is vital in preventing potential irritation or damage during the whitening process, prioritizing patient comfort and safety.

Application of Whitening Gel

With the protective measures in place, a high-quality whitening gel is evenly applied to the surface of the teeth. This gel typically contains a peroxide-based solution, which acts as the primary bleaching agent. The gel is carefully formulated to break down stains and discolorations, revealing a brighter, more radiant smile.

cosmetic whitening

Activation with LED Lights

Once the whitening gel is applied, the power of LED lights comes into play. Specialized LED lamps are positioned over the treated area, emitting a safe and controlled level of light energy. This light activation accelerates the bleaching process, enhancing the effectiveness of the whitening gel and expediting the results.

Monitoring and Adjustments

Throughout the procedure, the dental professional closely monitors the progress. Adjustments may be made to the intensity of the LED lights or the duration of the treatment to ensure optimal results. This attentive approach allows for a customized experience, catering to the unique needs of each patient.

Rinsing and Evaluation

Once the designated treatment time is complete, the whitening gel is carefully removed. The patient’s teeth are then thoroughly rinsed to eliminate any residual product. This step is pivotal in preventing potential sensitivity and ensuring the patient’s comfort post-treatment.

Post-Procedure Care and Recommendations

After the LED whitening process, the dental professional may provide post-care instructions to maximize and maintain the results. This could include recommendations for oral hygiene practices and dietary habits to help sustain the newfound brightness of the teeth. Regular check-ups and touch-up treatments may also be advised to prolong the effects of the tooth whitening procedure.

How the LED Works

LED whitening is one of the most efficient ways to brighten your smile without damaging your teeth with bleach. Here’s how it works:

Speeds up the reaction and breakdown of stains by the peroxide acid

Shifts the temperature of the whitening gel to increase lightening effectiveness

Dehydrates the teeth temporarily to allow deeper penetration of the gel into enamel

As the blue LED light stimulates the gel, users may experience a slight tingling but no major discomfort. The light exposure and gel remain on the teeth for about 20 minutes. Once your dentist is satisfied with the level of whitening, the gel is suctioned away and a fluoride treatment is done to replenish mineral content in the enamel.

This professional-grade LED system provides faster whitening with less sensitivity compared to other types of whitening lights used in the dental office. Patients see dramatic results in one session, but severely stained teeth may require 2-3 appointments to reach the desired shade.

Professional Whitening vs At-Home Whitening

Both professional whitening and at-home teeth whitening kits can effectively brighten and whiten your smile. However, there are some key advantages of being whitened by your dentist.

  • Faster results: Professional in-office whitening achieves full results in just 1-3 sessions, while at-home kits require 2-4 weeks of daily application while producing underwhelming results.
  • High-concentration gel: Dentists can safely apply and monitor stronger concentrations of whitening gel around 15-40% hydrogen peroxide for better lightening. Over-the-counter kits contain less than 10% hydrogen peroxide.
  • Decreased sensitivity: Professional procedures are more likely to cause less pain or sensitivity compared to prolonged use of at-home gels.
  • Customization: Dr. Gabriel can better customize the professional treatment to accommodate different levels of staining for individual patients.
  • Stain resistance: Research shows professional whitening better resists stains long-term and keeps teeth whiter longer than the gradual results of at-home gels.

While at-home whitening kits cost less, professional whitening done properly by your dentist like Dr. Gabriel in Wexford, PA confers many benefits and dramatic, lasting results. It’s also safer for your enamel under professional care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Menu