Coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco stain enamel gradually over years. Professional whitening lifts that discoloration under supervision, using stronger, better-controlled products than anything available over the counter.
Whitening is the most requested cosmetic treatment in dentistry, and the most misunderstood. Over-the-counter strips and toothpastes use low concentrations, apply unevenly, and cannot adapt to your teeth — which is why results are often patchy and disappointing.
Professional whitening uses a higher concentration applied to your teeth specifically, with your gums protected and the process supervised. The result is more even, more dramatic, and reached in far less time.
At Rita Marroghi DDS, we examine your teeth first to confirm whitening is appropriate and to identify what is actually causing the discoloration — because not all staining responds to whitening.
Surface staining builds up on the enamel from coffee, tea, red wine, dark berries, and tobacco. This responds well to whitening.
Internal discoloration occurs within the tooth from aging, as enamel thins and the yellower dentin beneath shows through. This also responds to whitening, though sometimes more gradually.
Discoloration that whitening cannot lift includes staining from certain medications such as tetracycline, teeth darkened after trauma or root canal treatment, and white or brown spots from fluorosis. These usually require veneers or bonding.
Existing fillings, crowns, and veneers do not whiten. If you have restorations on your front teeth, they may need replacing after whitening to match the new shade — something to plan for before starting.
Treatment begins with an examination. Whitening applied over untreated decay or inflamed gums causes significant sensitivity, so any dental issues are addressed first. A cleaning beforehand also improves the result by removing surface deposits.
In-office whitening is completed in a single visit of about 60 to 90 minutes. Your gums and lips are protected, a professional-strength gel is applied to the teeth, and it is left to work in cycles. You leave with the result visible immediately.
Take-home whitening uses custom trays made from impressions of your teeth, so the gel stays on the enamel rather than leaking onto the gums. You wear them for a set period each day over one to two weeks. Results build more gradually and many patients find it gentler.
Both approaches can be combined — an in-office session for immediate results, with trays to maintain and top up at home.
Temporary sensitivity to cold during and shortly after whitening is common and normal. It typically settles within a day or two.
If you already experience sensitivity, tell your dentist. A desensitizing toothpaste used for two weeks beforehand, a lower-concentration gel, or shorter application times all help considerably.
Whitening looks simple and often is — but assessing what is causing the discoloration, whether it will respond, and how existing restorations will look afterward requires a clinical eye.
Dr. Marroghi has over 25 years of cosmetic dentistry experience and will tell you honestly what result to expect, including when whitening is not the right treatment for your particular staining.
Whitening is not permanent. With care, results typically last one to three years:
Do not over-whiten. More frequent application does not produce a whiter result and can cause lasting sensitivity. Follow the schedule your dentist recommends.
The practice is committed to helping patients become informed decision-makers who fully understand their dental conditions and treatment options. The team will listen to your concerns and explain its recommendations so you can make an informed choice about your care.
The practice encourages patients to prepare for their appointment and discuss any concerns with the dental team. Sharing your anxiety in advance helps the doctor understand your needs and provide appropriate care during your visit.
The practice treats dental injuries such as chipped, displaced, or knocked-out teeth. Same-day treatment is not guaranteed on the website, so patients should call the office immediately for assistance and appointment availability. For a life-threatening or severe injury, call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room.
The practice provides routine and restorative dental services, including cleanings, fillings, crowns, dentures, root canal treatment, and sealants to protect children’s teeth. Contact the office to discuss the most appropriate care for you or your child.
