• 703-378-5010
  • Map

Teeth Whitening

  • 703-378-5010
Teeth Whitening

Are you tired of discoloration and stains on your teeth? Teeth whitening is a safe and effective treatment that can make your smile sparkle. Dr. Claudio Urquiaga guides patients through at-home whitening treatments and performs in-office procedures for many patients seeking to lighten their teeth by several shades. Make an appointment to see Dr. Urquiaga at Chantilly Smiles in Chantilly, Virginia, for a dental exam to find out if teeth whitening is right for you.

Can I whiten my teeth at home?

Yes. You can whiten your teeth at home with several over-the-counter products that are easy to find. Toothpaste helps remove stains from your teeth, but there are some brands of whitening toothpaste you can buy that provide heightened stain removal. They don’t contain bleach, but rather carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide that lightens color deep in the tooth, usually up to one shade.

You can also buy whitening gels or strips over-the-counter. They’re normally peroxide-based and are applied directly onto your teeth. Results show within a few days. Follow the instructions carefully, as they vary based on the strength of the peroxide.

Whitening rinses, like mouthwashes, freshen breath, help get rid of plaque, and prevent gum disease. They also contain hydrogen peroxide, which helps with teeth whitening. Because rinses aren’t in contact with your teeth as long as strips or gels, they don't have as much of a whitening effect.

Why should I see a professional for teeth whitening?

Although you can whiten your teeth at home, there are several benefits to seeing a professional like Dr. Urquiaga for teeth whitening procedures, including:

  • Stronger bleach. Professional in-office whitening procedures contain higher concentrations of bleaching gels. Although safe, some patients experience a temporary increase in tooth sensitivity and mild irritation to the soft tissue.
  • Faster and better results. Since the concentration of bleaching gel in professional procedures is higher, results appear immediately. Over-the-counter products need to be applied over a 2-4 week period. In-office whitening procedures take about an hour and lighten 3-8 shades.
  • Supervision from a dental professional. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a consultation before undergoing any whitening treatment to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy enough.

Is teeth whitening safe?

The dentistry community agrees that the active bleaching ingredient in whitening products, carbamide peroxide (which yields hydrogen peroxide) is safe and effective. The substance has a mild effect on gums, teeth, and dental restorations like crowns and fillings. That’s why it’s important to come in for a thorough dental exam with Dr. Urquiaga before starting a whitening treatment.

Ask us

Feel free to email us regarding any scheduling or general questions!
I understand and agree that any information submitted will be forwarded to our office by email and not via a secure messaging system. This form should not be used to transmit private health information, and we disclaim all warranties with respect to the privacy and confidentiality of any information submitted through this form.

OFFICE HOURS

HOURS

OPENING HOURS

Monday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Tuesday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday 9:00am - 2:00pm, alternating weeks. Call our office for more information.
Sunday Closed

Claudio Urquiaga, DDS, Chantilly, VA

Phone (appointments): 703-378-5010 | Phone (general inquiries): (703) 378-5010

Address: 13948 Lee Jackson Memorial Highway, Chantilly, VA 20151