A bright smile can boost confidence and leave a lasting impression, but over time, staining and discoloration can dull your teeth. At St. Louis Dental West in Kirkwood, MO, Dr. Victoria Daugherty offers professional teeth whitening treatments to help you restore your smile’s natural brilliance. Whether you’re preparing for a big event or simply want to improve your overall appearance, teeth whitening is a safe and effective solution.
This blog explores the benefits of professional teeth whitening, why it’s superior to over-the-counter options, and how it ties into the comprehensive care offered by Dr. Daugherty and her team at St. Louis Dental West.
Why Teeth Whitening Matters
Over the years, teeth naturally become darker due to aging, dietary habits, and lifestyle factors. Common causes of staining include:
- Dark beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine.
- Tobacco products, which cause deep discoloration.
- Enamel thinning, exposing the yellowish dentin beneath.
While regular brushing and flossing help maintain oral hygiene, they cannot eliminate deep stains. Professional teeth whitening penetrates the surface of your teeth to remove discoloration, leaving them brighter and more vibrant.
The Advantages of Professional Whitening at St. Louis Dental West
1. Superior Results
Professional teeth whitening treatments, like those offered by Dr. Daugherty, use high-concentration bleaching agents that deliver noticeable results. Unlike store-bought products, these treatments are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring even whitening.
2. Customized Care
At St. Louis Dental West, we provide custom bleaching trays that fit perfectly to your teeth. These trays ensure precise application of the whitening gel, minimizing sensitivity and achieving consistent results.
3. Safe and Monitored Process
With professional whitening, your treatment is supervised by an experienced dentist. Dr. Daugherty ensures that your gums and enamel are protected throughout the process, reducing the risk of irritation or damage.
4. Improved Oral Health
Whitening treatments don’t just enhance aesthetics—they also help improve oral health by removing stains that can trap bacteria and block essential nutrients from reaching your enamel.
How Professional Teeth Whitening Works
The whitening process at St. Louis Dental West is simple, safe, and effective:
- Consultation and Evaluation
- Dr. Daugherty begins with a thorough assessment of your teeth and gums to determine if whitening is right for you. Any underlying dental issues, such as cavities or gum disease, are addressed beforehand to ensure optimal results.
- Preparation and Cleaning
- A professional cleaning removes surface stains and debris, ensuring the whitening agent works effectively.
- Application of Whitening Agent
- For in-office treatments, a high-concentration bleaching gel is applied to your teeth. A specialized light or laser may be used to activate the gel, accelerating the whitening process. For take-home treatments, custom trays and professional-grade whitening gel are provided for convenient use.
- Aftercare and Maintenance
- Dr. Daugherty provides personalized instructions on maintaining your results, such as avoiding staining foods and drinks and scheduling touch-up treatments as needed.
Professional Whitening vs. Over-the-Counter Products
While drugstore whitening kits and strips may seem convenient, they often fall short in delivering the desired results.
Over-the-Counter Products:
- Lower concentration of whitening agents.
- Results may take weeks or months.
- Increased risk of uneven application and gum irritation.
Professional Whitening:
- Higher concentration of bleaching agents for quicker, more noticeable results.
- Custom trays ensure even application and prevent sensitivity.
- Supervised by dental professionals to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Why Choose Dr. Victoria Daugherty?
Dr. Victoria Daugherty brings nearly 20 years of experience to her role as a dentist in Kirkwood, MO. As a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, she combines expertise with a commitment to patient care. At St. Louis Dental West, Dr. Daugherty and her team prioritize creating a comfortable and personalized experience for every patient. Whether you’re considering teeth whitening or another cosmetic procedure, you can trust Dr. Daugherty to help you achieve your smile goals.
Schedule Your Teeth Whitening Consultation in Kirkwood, MO
Ready to brighten your smile? At St. Louis Dental West, we offer professional teeth whitening treatments tailored to your needs. Let Dr. Victoria Daugherty help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about our comprehensive dental services in Kirkwood, MO.