Teeth Whitening
A Brighter, Whiter Smile
At Autumn Family Dentistry, we offer safe and effective teeth whitening options. You can choose from professional in-office treatments or receive guidance for at-home whitening. Our League City dentists help you achieve a radiant, confident smile while minimizing tooth sensitivity.
How to Whiten Teeth at Home
Safe and Effective At-Home Whitening
At-home whitening can be effective when done safely and consistently. Over-the-counter products, such as Crest Whitestrips, can noticeably brighten your smile in 1–2 weeks when used correctly.
Preparation Tips
Before starting at-home whitening:
Brush with sensitivity toothpaste (e.g., Sensodyne® or Colgate® Sensitive) for at least 2 weeks prior.
Avoid scheduling fillings or bonding within 2 weeks after bleaching, as peroxide can interfere with bonding strength.
How to Use Whitening Strips
Tips for Safe and Effective Use
To get the best results from hydrogen peroxide-based whitening strips (such as Crest Whitestrips):
Purchase hydrogen peroxide-based whitening strips (such as Crest Whitestrips).
Follow package directions carefully for wear time and number of days.
Apply strips only to the top ¾ of each tooth, keeping them off your gums. Don’t worry; there won’t be a visible “line” since the bleaching agent spreads naturally.
Avoid applying strips to the gums to prevent burning or irritation.
Consistency is key: bleaching works best on consecutive days. Try not to skip.
Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed for temporary sensitivity.
In-Office Professional Whitening
Fast, Dramatic Results
For faster, more noticeable results, our in-office whitening treatment delivers professional-grade whitening in about 1 hour.
What to Expect
- Appointment time: about 60–75 minutes
- A protective barrier gel is applied to the gums
- Up to four 15-minute applications of whitening gel activated by an accelerating light
- Many patients achieve excellent results and stop after 2–3 applications due to sensitivity
- A desensitizing gel is applied afterward to soothe the teeth
Before & Aftercare
Before Whitening:
1. Brush with sensitivity toothpaste for 2 weeks prior to your appointment.
2. Avoid scheduling fillings for at least 2 weeks after whitening to prevent bonding issues.
After Whitening:
1. Avoid coffee, tea, wine, berries, and dark sauces for at least 48 hours while enamel pores are open and more absorbent.
2. Take OTC pain medication if you experience temporary sensitivity.
FAQs About Teeth Whitening
Answers to Common Questions About Teeth Whitening
How old do I have to be to whiten my teeth?
There’s no strict minimum age, but whitening is best for patients with all permanent teeth (around age 12+). Teens tend to experience more sensitivity, so we usually recommend waiting until adulthood.
Are there natural or holistic whitening options?
Despite popular claims, natural remedies can’t change the internal color of your teeth.
- Hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide are the only proven whitening agents.
- Coconut oil pulling can freshen your mouth but won’t lighten intrinsic stains.
- Charcoal or baking soda pastes may remove surface stains but can be abrasive.
Avoid prolonged exposure to lemons or citrus acids that can erode enamel permanently.
How will my teeth respond to whitening?
Only natural tooth enamel responds to bleaching. Crowns, veneers, and fillings will not whiten.
Temporary sensitivity is normal and can be minimized with desensitizing toothpaste and post-op gels.
How can I reduce sensitivity from whitening?
Use potassium nitrate-based toothpaste (Sensodyne®, Colgate® Sensitive, Tom’s of Maine® Sensitive) for 2 weeks before whitening.
If sensitivity occurs, take ibuprofen or acetaminophen as needed and space out treatments.
Sensitivity is usually temporary, and no permanent tooth damage occurs if whitening is done properly.
Are over-the-counter products safe and effective?
Generally yes, if you follow instructions carefully.
Crest Whitestrips and similar products contain safe concentrations of peroxide.
Expect more gradual results over several weeks.
Avoid overuse or applying to gums.
For quicker, more even results, professional whitening is still the gold standard.
How much does whitening cost?
Our in-office teeth whitening special is $399.
Can I whiten if I have crowns, veneers, or bonded fillings?
Whitening only affects natural teeth. You may need to replace old restorations afterward to match your new shade.
Can I whiten during pregnancy?
While research shows no proven harm if not ingested, we recommend waiting until after pregnancy or breastfeeding as a precaution.
Do results last?
Yes. Results are long-lasting with proper care. Maintain them with:
- Daily brushing and flossing
- Regular professional cleanings
Occasional touch-up whitening as needed
Can I bleach if I have gum disease?
It’s best to treat gum disease first. Bleaching irritated gums can increase pain and sensitivity.
Schedule Your Visit Today
Ready for a Comfortable, Healthy Smile?
Our League City dentists can help you evaluate and manage your wisdom teeth safely and effectively. Whether it’s monitoring for potential issues or planning a gentle removal, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Call Autumn Family Dentistry in League City, TX today to schedule your wisdom teeth consultation!