Teeth Whitening
in Arlington, VA
Your morning coffee ritual shouldn’t come with a side of embarrassment. Yet every sip darkens your teeth a little more, creating stains that make you second-guess every photo and hesitate before laughing out loud. After years of promising yourself you’ll “do something about it,” those stubborn marks have become permanent residents on your smile.
At Cusumano and Stuver, we see patients every day who’ve tried everything from charcoal toothpaste to DIY Pinterest remedies, only to end up frustrated and still hiding their teeth. Professional teeth whitening in Arlington, VA, changes that story completely, giving you back the confidence to smile without reservation.
Why Professional Whitening Outperforms Store-Bought Options
Here at Cusumano and Stuver, we use a carefully controlled concentration of hydrogen peroxide that’s significantly stronger than what’s available in retail whitening products. While drugstore strips and toothpastes contain only 3-10% hydrogen peroxide, professional treatments use concentrations up to 35%, delivering dramatic results in a single visit.
Our Arlington dentist also customizes the treatment to your specific needs, protecting your tooth enamel and minimizing tooth sensitivity. This personalized approach allows you to get the best teeth whitening experience possible while maintaining your dental health.
Understanding What Causes Tooth Stains
Stains develop on your teeth through daily activities you might not even consider. Along with the aforementioned morning cup of coffee, tea, red wine, and even berries can gradually penetrate your tooth enamel, creating deep discoloration that regular brushing can’t remove. Smoking and aging also contribute to yellowing that becomes more pronounced over time.
Professional whitening gel penetrates these deep stains effectively, breaking down the color compounds that have built up over months or years.
What to Expect During Your Arlington Whitening Treatment
Your teeth whitening appointment begins with a thorough examination to ensure you’re a good candidate for the procedure. We’ll discuss your goals and explain exactly how the process works.
Application of protective barriers to shield your gums
Careful placement of professional-grade whitening gel on your teeth
Activation using specialized light or heat (depending on the system)
Multiple applications during your visit for optimal results
Most patients see their teeth lighten 3-8 shades in just one session. The entire appointment typically takes 60-90 minutes, making it easy to fit into your busy Arlington schedule.
Managing Sensitivity and Protecting Your Results
Some patients worry about tooth sensitivity after whitening. While mild sensitivity is normal and temporary, we take steps to minimize discomfort. We may recommend special toothpaste before your appointment or adjust the treatment intensity based on your comfort level.
After your whitening treatment, protecting your dental health and maintaining results becomes your priority. Avoiding staining substances for 24-48 hours allows your tooth enamel to re-harden properly. We’ll provide specific aftercare instructions.
Maintaining Your Bright New Smile
Your whitening investment pays dividends when you protect it properly. A few daily habits can be the difference between results that fade quickly and a smile that stays brilliantly white for months on end.
Our cosmetic dentist in Arlington recommends:
- Using a straw when drinking teeth-staining beverages
- Rinsing with water after consuming coffee, tea, or wine
- Maintaining excellent oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing
- Scheduling regular dental cleanings to remove surface stains
Touch-up treatments every 6-12 months help maintain your excellent results, depending on your lifestyle and dietary habits.
Ready to Illuminate Your Smile?
If you’re considering enhancing your smile with professional teeth whitening, let’s discuss how we can help you achieve a luminous, healthy smile.
Contact Cusumano and Stuver today to schedule your consultation in Arlington, VA, and take the first step to brighten your smile!
