Professional Teeth Whitening | Chicago, IL Best Dentist Near You

Benefits of Professional Tooth Whitening Over Drugstore Products

When it comes to whitening your teeth, you have a choice: a trip to the local pharmacy or a visit to a trusted dental professional. While over-the-counter products are readily available, in-office bleaching and professional teeth whitening in Chicago offer distinct advantages that lead to superior results.

Higher-Strength, Dental-Grade Formulas: Store-bought whitening kits contain a low concentration of bleaching agents, which means they can only address minor, surface-level stains and may take weeks to show a small difference.
Customized and Safe Treatment: “One-size-fits-all” is the mantra of drugstore products, which often leads to uneven whitening and gum irritation from ill-fitting trays or strips. Dr. Contos will create a custom whitening plan based on the unique causes of your discoloration and the health of your teeth.
Faster, More Effective Outcomes: In-office teeth whitening in Chicago provides a fast track to a dazzling smile. Imagine walking into our office and leaving about an hour later with teeth that are several shades lighter. For those who prefer to whiten at home, our professional-strength at-home whitening kits still produce more remarkable results in less time than anything you can buy in a store.

Types of Teeth Whitening Treatments Near You

In-Office Teeth Whitening Procedure

Opalescence Boost is a chemically activated treatment that accelerates your smile through shades of white in less than one hour. This safe and effective in-office solution is more advanced than a whitening gel activated by heat, lights, or lasers. It also provides more even teeth whitening results than whitening toothpastes.

At-Home Teeth Whitening

If you prefer to whiten your teeth from the comfort of your home, Opalescence offers a convenient at-home treatment option called Opalescence PF. You’ll first visit our Chicago dental professionals so we can take an impression of your teeth.

This impression helps create a plastic retainer that you can use at home. Whitening your teeth is as simple as filling the retainer with Opalescence gel and placing the tray in your mouth for the recommended time.

For patients who prefer even greater convenience, we also offer pre-filled dental trays called Opalescence Go! Depending on the strength of the gel you choose, you’ll only need to wear the plastic retainer for 15 minutes to one hour each day.

Candidacy for Professional Dental Whitening

While many people are good candidates for professional teeth whitening, considering factors like health and dental history, bleaching, and tooth sensitivity during a consultation with Dr. Contos is the best way to determine if it’s the right option for you. Here are some factors we consider:

Healthy Teeth and Gums: The most suitable candidates have good oral health. Issues like gum disease, cavities, or exposed tooth roots must be addressed before any whitening procedure. Dr. Contos will perform a thorough examination to ensure your mouth is healthy and ready for treatment.
Type of Staining: The cause of your discoloration plays a big role in the success of the treatment. Most people have extrinsic stains caused by foods, drinks, and aging, which respond very well to whitening. For patients with intrinsic stains—discoloration that comes from within the tooth—Dr. Contos may recommend alternative cosmetic dentistry treatments, such as a smile makeover with veneers. The type of tooth discoloration affects how effective whitening treatments can be; yellow teeth usually respond best, while gray or brown teeth may not bleach as effectively.
Existing Dental Work: Whitening gels only work on natural tooth enamel. If you have crowns, bridges, veneers, or fillings in visible areas of your smile, they will not change color. This could result in an uneven appearance. In such cases, Dr. Contos can discuss options for replacing these restorations to achieve a uniform, beautiful smile.

Professional teeth whitening is a transformative step toward a more confident you. If you’re ready to explore your options for whitening for stained teeth or are simply seeking an affordable teeth whitening Chicago solution, we invite you to visit us at Contos Smile Center. Call (773) 973-0531 to discover your teeth whitening candidacy.

Caring for Your Newly Whitened Smile

While the initial 48-hour period is the most important, consistent care is necessary to keep your smile looking its best. Here are some simple, long-term habits to adopt:

Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice a day and flossing daily is your first line of defense against new stains and plaque buildup. Dr. Contos recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a whitening toothpaste (though a non-abrasive one is best for the first few days).
Mind Your Intake of Staining Culprits: You don’t have to give up your morning coffee or evening glass of red wine forever, but being mindful of their impact can help. When you do enjoy these items, consider drinking them through a straw to minimize contact with your front teeth, and rinse your mouth with water immediately afterward to wash away staining agents.
Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings: Your regular dental cleanings with Dr. Contos and our Chicago dental team are essential. Professional cleanings remove surface stains and polish your teeth, which can keep them looking bright. We can also assess the state of your whitening and discuss any necessary touch-ups.
Consider At-Home Touch-Ups: If you opted for our custom whitening trays, you can use them for periodic touch-ups to combat new stains and maintain your results. The frequency will depend on your lifestyle and habits, and Dr. Contos can provide guidance on a schedule that works for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between in-office and at-home teeth whitening?

In-office teeth whitening is a fast, single-visit procedure performed by Dr. Contos using a high-concentration gel and sometimes a light to accelerate results. In-office whitening can achieve quicker tooth whitening because it delivers higher concentrations of peroxide, making it an ideal choice for those seeking immediate and dramatic improvements.

Is professional teeth whitening safe for my teeth?

When performed under the supervision of a dentist like Dr. Contos, professional teeth whitening is a safe procedure that often uses carbamide peroxide. The gels and techniques used are designed to effectively whiten your teeth while minimizing potential for tooth sensitivity. Tooth whitening can produce temporary tooth sensitivity after treatment due to peroxide exposure, but this is typically short-lived and manageable.

How long do the results from professional teeth whitening last?

The longevity of your results depends on your diet, oral hygiene habits, and avoiding poor oral hygiene. With proper care, including regular brushing, flossing, and avoiding staining foods and drinks, your newly whitened smile can last for one to three years. Teeth whitening effects can last for several months but may vary based on individual lifestyle factors such as diet and oral care routines.

Will my dental insurance cover the cost of professional teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is generally considered a cosmetic procedure, so it’s typically not covered by dental insurance. We’re committed to making your new smile accessible and can discuss financing options during your consultation.

For Reliable Results Every Time, Whiten Your Smile With Our Dentist!

It’s time to stop hiding your smile. We understand the longing for a smile that truly reflects the joy you feel inside. Imagine walking through the city with newfound confidence, your bright, white teeth lighting up every room you enter. Don’t put off this life-changing decision any longer. The smile you deserve is waiting. Call our top Chicago dentist at (773) 973-0531 today to schedule your consultation. We happily welcome new patients from all across the area, including the communities of Skokie, Evanston, and Lincolnwood.