Are you suffering from stained or discolored teeth?
Opting for professional teeth whitening services is a cost-effective and safe method to brighten your teeth several shades. Unlike over-the-counter options, professional whitening provides consistent and reliable results. We offer both in-office and take-home teeth whitening in Boise, ID, for patients who want to improve their smile.
LIFESmiles Laser & Cosmetic Dentistry provides the GLO professional teeth whitening treatment. Our experienced cosmetic dentists, Dr. Dennis Garpetti and Dr. Brock Hyder, dedicate themselves to helping patients achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. We use top-quality whitening gel that minimizes sensitivity and prevents damage to the soft tissue, resulting in exceptional outcomes. Professional teeth whitening ensures faster and more predictable results.
Teeth Whitening in Boise, ID
Dr. Dennis Garpetti and Dr. Brock Hyder will perform a complete exam prior to any cosmetic dental treatment. We will discuss you cosmetic goals, budget, and the cause of discoloration at your visit. Our team will suggest the best treatment for you, either professional teeth whitening or another cosmetic treatment.
In-office Teeth Whitening
In-office teeth whitening is a quick and effective option to whiten teeth. We can whiten your teeth by several shades and remove stains in just one hour. To protect your gums and lips from irritation or damage, we will apply a protective covering over the gums and lips. The dentist will then apply a professional-grade whitening gel to your teeth. We activate this gel with a special blue light. Patients can immediately notice a brighter and whiter smile right after the treatment.
At-home Teeth Whitening
At-home teeth whitening kits offer a gradual and effective approach to whitening your teeth. This option is best for people who prefer to achieve results at their own pace. Your dentist can create custom trays that will fit right over your teeth. Your dentist will review all aspects of your treatment to ensure you achieve the results you want. After a few uses, patients will begin to notice beautiful results.
Professional Teeth Whitening vs. Store-Bought Products
While each method offers specific pros and cons, professional teeth whitening provides the best and safest benefits. Professional teeth whitening treatments from a dentist involve using high-concentration bleaching agents. Store-bought options cannot deliver the same results since the concentration levels of the whitening agent are much lower. This also allows professional treatments to deliver much faster results.
Store-bought whitening products are one-size-fits-all treatments. Dentists can customize the whitening treatments to meet people’s specific needs. If you whiten your teeth from a dentist, they can also monitor the progress, minimizing the risk of gum irritation and damage.
It may seem tempting to use whitening treatments from a store. These products are convenient and often much cheaper, and there are many to choose from. However, they will likely not deliver the results you want, and you risk harming the soft tissues in your mouth without the advice of a dentist.
What Are Some Other Ways to Whiten Teeth?
For some people, professional teeth whitening will not work. However, we offer plenty of other options to enhance your teeth. We use advanced techniques to ensure your smile looks its best. Here are the alternatives if professional treatments do not work for you:
Porcelain Veneers
Dentists apply these thin shells to the front of your teeth. These cosmetic restorations whiten, reshape, and align your teeth. Teeth veneers offer a long-lasting solution for teeth with difficult stains. To learn more about the benefits of dental veneers, see Porcelain Veneers.
Lumineers
Similar to dental veneers, Lumeneers are ultra-thin and require less preparation. This type of cosmetic tooth covering provides a natural and bright appearance. Lumineers are popular with people who want a permanent, less invasive way to whiten teeth. To learn more about the process to get Lumineers, see Lumineers.
Tooth Bonding
Teeth bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin to your teeth. It covers stains and discolorations, giving your teeth a uniform look. Tooth bonding works well for minor imperfections such as tough tooth stains or yellow teeth. To learn more about the benefits of teeth bonding, see Tooth Bonding.
Dental Crowns
For severely damaged or stained teeth, we may suggest dental crowns. This type of tooth restoration offers a complete solution. Teeth crowns encase the entire tooth, restoring both its color and function. To learn more about the crown process, see Dental Crowns.
With other options available, we make achieving an attractive smile easier than ever. During your consultation, we will let you know if we believe tooth whitening is the best option or if you would be better off with one of the alternative options.
What Causes Tooth Discoloration?
Tooth discoloration is something that everyone experiences to some degree. Many different things can impact the color of your smile.
Extrinsic Stains from Foods and Beverages
The most common cause of tooth discoloration comes from the foods and drinks people consume daily. Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sodas contain pigments that stick to the enamel and create surface stains. Foods like berries, tomato-based sauces, and curry can also leave behind lasting discoloration. Over time, these stains build up, especially when combined with poor brushing habits.
Tobacco Use
Smoking and chewing tobacco contribute significantly to yellow or brown teeth. The tar and nicotine in tobacco products penetrate enamel, creating deep stains that are difficult to remove with brushing alone. Long-term tobacco use not only discolors teeth but also increases the risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Quitting tobacco is one of the best steps a person can take to protect both their smile and overall health.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque and tartar to build up, which can make teeth appear dull and discolored. Plaque traps food particles and bacteria, which stain the teeth over time. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings help prevent this type of discoloration. When ignored, buildup can lead to more severe dental problems beyond just staining.
Aging and Enamel Wear
As people age, their enamel naturally wears down. The outer enamel layer is translucent, and when it thins, the yellowish dentin beneath becomes more visible. This natural process makes teeth appear darker even if a person practices good oral hygiene. Professional whitening or restorative treatments can help restore a youthful brightness.
Medications and Medical Factors
Certain medications cause tooth discoloration as a side effect. Antibiotics like tetracycline and doxycycline, when given to children during tooth development, can result in permanent stains. Some antihistamines, blood pressure medications, and chemotherapy treatments can also darken teeth. Additionally, excessive fluoride exposure during childhood may lead to fluorosis, which appears as white or brown spots on enamel.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of the most commonly asked questions concerning teeth whitening treatments.
How often can I safely repeat teeth whitening treatments?
Most dentists recommend professional whitening no more than once or twice a year. Overdoing it can cause sensitivity or irritate your gums. Touch-ups with take-home trays or whitening toothpaste can help maintain results between full treatments. Always follow your dentist’s advice on when to schedule your appointments.
Will teeth whitening work on crowns, veneers, or bonded teeth?
No, whitening treatments only work on natural teeth. Crowns, veneers, and bonding material won’t change color. If you plan to whiten, it’s best to do it before getting any restorations so they match your lighter shade. If your restorations look mismatched later, your dentist may suggest replacing them.
How much whiter can I expect my teeth to get with in-office whitening?
In-office whitening can lighten your teeth by several shades in just one visit. Results vary depending on the starting color and type of staining. Some people see a difference of three to eight shades. Your dentist will show you realistic before-and-after comparisons during your visit.
What’s the difference between GLO whitening and other whitening systems?
GLO whitening uses a combination of heat and light to speed up the whitening process without causing as much sensitivity. Traditional systems may use lights alone or just a strong bleaching gel. GLO treatments are designed to be gentler while still delivering strong, noticeable results.
How soon after a cleaning can I get teeth whitening done?
You can get teeth whitening immediately after a dental cleaning. A fresh cleaning removes plaque and tartar, making whitening more even and effective. Many dentists recommend whitening right after a cleaning for the best possible results.
What can I do to maintain my whitening results longer?
Brush and floss daily, avoid staining foods and drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine, and rinse your mouth with water after consuming them. Use a whitening toothpaste a few times a week to help maintain brightness. Regular dental cleanings and occasional touch-ups also extend your results.
Does teeth whitening cause permanent damage to enamel?
No, professional teeth whitening does not cause permanent damage to enamel when done properly. Whitening products are designed to safely remove stains without weakening your teeth. Overusing at-home products or misusing high-strength products can cause temporary sensitivity but not permanent harm. Always follow your dentist’s recommendations.
Schedule a Consultation for Teeth Whitening in Boise, ID
Are you searching for a dentist who offers teeth whitening in Boise, ID? Drs. Garpetti and Hyder offer a full range of cosmetic dentistry services, including in office and take-home teeth whitening treatments. To learn more about our teeth whitening solutions, call (208) 254-6365 or request an appointment online.