Cosmetic Dentistry

In-Office Teeth Whitening in Herrin, IL

Professional-strength whitening supervised in the chair for a noticeably brighter smile in a single visit.

In-office teeth whitening is a whitening procedure that is performed in a dentist's office. It can make a patient's teeth up to five to seven shades brighter. Dental offices use different methods of bleaching or whitening to achieve the shade preferred by the patient.

Whitening products can brighten teeth that may have been stained or darkened by food, tobacco, injury or aging.

Advantages of In-Office Teeth Whitening

Over-the-counter tooth-whitening kits are less expensive than in-office treatments. However, there are advantages that in-office teeth-whitening procedures have over take-home whitening products. They include:

  • Professional supervision
  • Faster results
  • Longer-lasting results
  • Fewer sensitivity issues

In-Office Teeth Whitening Procedures

Types of dental-office whitening procedures may include:

Professionally Applied Tooth Whitening Products

These products are applied at a dentist's office, and have a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide, a whitening agent.

Laser or Light Treatment

Whitening solution is applied to the teeth and used in combination with a special light or laser. Results can usually be seen after one session.

Custom Mouth Tray

A custom mouthpiece or tray is created by the dentist, and a peroxide-based whitening solution is given to the patient to use at home with the mouthpiece or tray.

In-office teeth whitening comprises a series of one-hour appointments at a dentist's office. Teeth will be examined and cleaned to make sure there are no cavities, loose fillings, gum problems or other issues that may be exacerbated by the bleaching process. A patient who chooses to use whitening products in combination with at-home treatment may be monitored by the dentist for results.

Whitening procedures are effective but their results are not permanent. Depending on the procedure used, whitening may fade over time. Patients are advised to avoid problem food and drinks that may stain or darken the teeth.

Additional Resources

Good to know

Frequently Asked Questions

In-office whitening can make teeth up to five to seven shades brighter. The exact result depends on the shade you start from and what caused the discolouration.

Over-the-counter kits cost less, but in-office treatment offers professional supervision, faster results, longer-lasting results and fewer problems with sensitivity.

Whitening products can brighten teeth that have been stained or darkened by food, tobacco, injury or ageing.

No. Whitening works on natural tooth structure, so existing restorations keep their original shade. If you are planning both, it is usually best to whiten first and match any new restorations to the result.

Patient stories

What our patients are saying

“Staff was friendly, efficient, prompt and provided information about my care and addressed my concerns. Thank you!”

Terri H.

“I couldn’t go to any other dentist/hygienist and feel so comfortable. Their friendliness exudes from them all. I feel so welcome when I go and I am treated with the utmost respect! They all are wonderful!!! Thank you all so much!!!!”

Debbie D.

“We absolutely love Dr. Hughes and his staff. They are so patient and kind, and they truly take the time to make sure everyone feels comfortable. My kids actually look forward to their appointments and never want to leave—which says a lot for a dental office! From the front desk to the dental chair the whole team is warm, welcoming, and makes every visit such a positive experience. I couldn’t recommend them more!”

Megan F.

“I can’t recommend this dentist enough! He was the only one who could get me in right away for my wisdom tooth, and he was super kind, gentle, and made sure the procedure was virtually painless. My swelling was minimal, which was such a relief. The assistant was amazing too, she even held my hand when I needed it! And the front desk staff were absolutely pleasant and helpful. Truly a 10,000/10 experience. Highly recommend!”

Alyssa D.

“Great experience. Very friendly and professional. I absolutely recommend them.”

Debbie P.

“the sedation was so pleasant, it was like eating a big bowl of ice cream, and going to sleep...waking up all done, and feeling like nothing ever happened... all these professionals have got it going on. the end results was great! if u want a caring, and friendly group of professional who listen to your personal needs, i recommend HUGHES Dental Arts Centre in Herrin, IL...”

Dave L.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to the Hughes Dental Arts Centre! All of the staff were highly professional and cared about my specific dental care needs.”

Joshua D.

“Excellent care. Wouldn't go to anyone else.”

Christina A.
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Call (618) 266-8354