Dramatically Brighten Your Smile with Teeth Whitening

Although they do not affect your overall oral health, dental stains can take a huge toll on your self-confidence. Dr. Chad LaCour can noticeably brighten your smile with a teeth whitening treatment at his Baton Rogue, LA, office. He offers both at-home and in-office treatments, and he will help you choose the right one for your health needs, budget, and personal preferences. Teeth whitening involves minimal discomfort. However, if you are nervous about your treatment, Dr. LaCour can also provide nitrous oxide. Whitening can achieve stunning results on its own or be incorporated into a complete smile makeover.

Dental Stains and Teeth Whitening: The Basics

There are two types of dental stains. Extrinsic stains are by far the most common, typically resulting from foods and drinks. If you regularly consume dark-colored foods, pigmented molecules called chromogens will attach to your teeth. In turn, your smile will take on a slightly yellow or brownish tint. Intrinsic stains are located inside your teeth. Somewhat rare, this type of discoloration often results from certain medications or from dental infection. Teeth whitening cannot erase intrinsic stains. However, Dr. LaCour can recommend a different option, such as porcelain veneers, to improve your smile.

In-office Zoom!® Whitening

Zoom!® is one of the most popular methods of teeth whitening, and we proudly offer Zoom2!® Advanced Power for optimal results. In an hour or less, Dr. LaCour can brighten your smile by several shades. To perform this treatment, Dr. LaCour or your hygienist will coat your teeth in a peroxide-based whitening gel. To activate the gel, he or she will shine a specialized light on your teeth. The peroxide molecules will penetrate your dental enamel, breaking apart stained molecules. After about 15 minutes, the dentist or hygienist will remove the gel and apply a new layer. The entire treatment lasts for three 15-minute cycles. If you are nervous about the process, Dr. LaCour can provide nitrous oxide, or laughing gas. The odorless gas will induce feelings of relaxation and mild euphoria.

At-home Teeth Whitening

At-home Opalescence® whitening can often provide equivalent results to in-office treatment. Dr. LaCour will create a series of custom whitening trays, which will fit over your teeth. You will fill the trays with a gel, similar to that used during in-office treatment. After wearing the trays for 30 to 45 minutes a day, typically for about two weeks, you could enjoy a significantly brighter smile. You might also select overnight whitening for the ultimate in convenience.

Choosing the Right Treatment Method

Because both in-office and at-home treatment can achieve similar results, the right one for you will depend largely on your personal preferences. In-office Zoom!® provides almost immediate results, making it a good choice if you are preparing for an upcoming event. However, if you are on a budget, you may prefer to use take-home whitening trays. Dental sensitivity is another concern. Teeth whitening involves minimal discomfort. Nevertheless, if you are predisposed to sensitivity, you may be better suited to in-office care. Dr. LaCour will be able to supervise your entire treatment, even further reducing the risk of discomfort.

Enjoy a Dazzling Smile

If you are ready to achieve a bright, sparkling smile, contact Dr. LaCour’s office today. After a careful evaluation, he will help you choose the right treatment to achieve the smile of your dreams.