Dentistry in St. Joseph, MO

Cosmetic Dentistry

Teeth Whitening

White teeth convey youth and vibrancy, but tooth color is determined by a variety of factors. If you smoke or drink dark-colored liquids, you’re teeth will absorb stains over time. Aging and genetics are other factors that affect the color of your teeth. Dr. Elmore offers professional teeth whitening to give your smile a healthy luster.

What’s does professional teeth whitening involve?
At your initial visit, Dr. Elmore will take impressions of your teeth from which he will create custom mouth trays. The trays will hold our bleaching solution flush against your teeth without damaging your soft-tissues. You can pick up the trays and teeth whitening gel at a second appointment. We will take pictures of your teeth at this time as well so that we can monitor your progress. You can choose to wear the trays overnight or for an hour a day. In three weeks, we’ll check your progress. After an additional three weeks, you’ll be ready for your final photos.

What’s the difference between over-the-counter and professional whiteners?
There are several benefits to professional teeth whitening, including:

Results. Store-bought whiteners contain a lower concentration of peroxide, a common bleaching agent, and only lighten an average of three shades. Out professional whiteners can lighten your teeth up to ten shades.
Comfort. With professional teeth whiteners, you will receive a custom mouth tray that forms to the contours of your mouth. This tray ensures that the bleaching solution coats all of your upper and lower teeth. Store-bought strips or trays are not customized to fit your teeth, resulting in discomfort, inconsistent results, spotting, and unbleached back teeth.
Safety. Your dentist will examine your teeth and soft tissues to make sure bleaching is safe for you. He will also be able to customize a plan that delivers the best results.

Will teeth whitening damage my teeth?
No. Dentist-supervised teeth whitening has been proven safe and effective for lightening teeth up to ten shades. Our take-home methods are ideal, because the teeth are exposed to the bleaching agent more gradually, which minimizes discomfort. With take-home teeth whitening, your tooth structure will not be altered.

Call today to reserve your teeth whitening appointment with Dr. Benjamin Elmore. Our state-of-the-art dental office located in St. Joseph is convenient to residents of Wathena, Elwood, Savannah, Hiawatha, and the surrrounding areas.

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