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Cosmetic dentistry

Teeth whitening in Saratoga Springs

Coffee, tea, soda and time can all leave teeth looking dull. Whitening with your dentist's help can lift many of those stains safely.

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How does teeth whitening work?

A whitening gel breaks up stains inside the outer layer of your teeth. Over one or more sessions, your teeth can look several shades lighter. Your dentist makes sure your teeth and gums are healthy enough before you begin.

  • Works on natural tooth enamel only
  • Some sensitivity for a short time is common
  • Results fade slowly and can be touched up

Is whitening a good fit for you?

Whitening tends to do well on yellow or light brown stains from food, drinks and smoking. It may help less with gray tones, spots from certain medicines, or white marks from too much fluoride as a child.

Things to know before you start:

  • Fillings, crowns, bonding and veneers do not change color. They may stand out after your natural teeth get lighter.
  • Cavities, cracks or gum problems should be treated first, so the gel does not irritate them.
  • If your teeth are already sensitive, let us know. Your dentist can plan around it.
  • Whitening is not advised during pregnancy or for young kids.

During an exam, your dentist can judge your stains and say how much change is realistic for your teeth.

What to expect

  1. Check your teeth first. Your dentist looks for cavities, worn spots and gum issues. A cleaning before whitening can remove surface buildup so the gel works on clean teeth.
  2. Note your starting shade. We write down your current shade as a baseline for comparing later.
  3. Whiten. Your dentist will explain the whitening options we offer and how many sessions you may need. Your gums are protected from the gel.
  4. Review your results. We compare your new shade to where you began and talk about how to keep it.

Keeping your teeth bright

Right after whitening, teeth pick up stains more easily for about 48 hours. Go easy on coffee, red wine, berries and dark sauces during that time. A straw helps with dark drinks. Toothpaste for sensitive teeth can ease any zings. After that, brush twice a day, floss and keep your cleanings. Most people need a touch up now and then to keep their shade.

Cost and insurance

Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.

See insurance and payment options

FAQ

Questions about teeth whitening

Why not just use strips from the store?
Store kits can work for some people. Whitening with your dentist starts with a check for problems the gel could irritate, and you get advice on sensitivity and realistic results.
Does whitening damage enamel?
When it is done as your dentist directs, whitening is considered safe for enamel. Overusing whitening products can raise sensitivity and irritate gums, so follow the plan you are given.
Will my teeth be sensitive?
Some people feel short, sharp twinges for a day or two. It usually passes. Tell us if it bothers you, and your dentist can suggest ways to ease it.
How long does a brighter shade stay?
That comes down to what you eat and drink and whether you smoke. Many people keep a brighter shade for months or longer with small touch ups.
Does insurance cover whitening?
Whitening is cosmetic, so most dental plans do not cover it. Our insurance and payment page lists other ways to pay.

Related care

You may also want to know about

Dental Veneers

Thin custom covers for the front of your teeth that change their color, shape or size.

About dental veneers

Tooth Bonding

Tooth-colored resin that fills chips, small gaps and rough edges, often in one visit.

About tooth bonding

Questions?

Call to book your visit

Our Saratoga Springs team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.

Call (385) 396-5839Get directions