New Patient Special
How teeth whitening works
Tooth discoloration happens when staining compounds penetrate the outer enamel layer and settle into the porous structure beneath. Professional whitening uses a high-concentration bleaching gel to break apart those staining molecules and lighten the tooth from the inside out.
The process is safe, controlled, and significantly more effective than anything available over the counter because of the strength of the whitening agent and the precision of the application.
Results you can actually see
In-office whitening can lighten teeth by several shades in a single appointment. The difference is visible immediately and continues to develop slightly in the days following treatment. For patients who have been living with stained or yellowed teeth, the change in how they feel about their smile is often just as significant as the cosmetic result.
Safe for your teeth
Professional whitening is closely monitored to protect your enamel and gum tissue. Before we begin, we examine your teeth and gums to make sure whitening is appropriate for your situation. The gel is applied precisely to the teeth, and the surrounding tissue is protected throughout the process.
Fast, with no downtime
Most in-office whitening appointments take about an hour. There's no recovery period and no time away from your day. Some patients experience mild sensitivity in the 24 to 48 hours following treatment, but it resolves on its own and doesn't require any special aftercare.
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Understanding teeth stains
Not all staining is the same, and it's worth knowing what type you're dealing with before expecting whitening to fix it.
Extrinsic stains sit on the surface of the enamel and respond well to whitening. Common causes include:
- Coffee, tea, and red wine
- Dark-colored foods like berries and tomato-based sauces
- Tobacco use
- Poor brushing habits over time
Intrinsic stains are embedded deeper within the tooth structure and may not respond to whitening alone. These include:
- Discoloration from certain antibiotics, particularly tetracycline
- Fluorosis from excess fluoride during tooth development
- Discoloration following trauma or root canal treatment
- Natural darkening that comes with age
If your staining is intrinsic, we'll let you know at your consultation. In those cases, veneers may be a more effective option for achieving the result you're looking for.
In-office whitening vs. store-bought options
Over-the-counter whitening products are widely available, but there are meaningful differences between what they can do and what professional treatment delivers.
In-office whitening
Store-bought
Strength of whitening agent
Professional grade
Limited by regulation
Results
Noticeable in one visit
Gradual, often inconsistent
Custom fit
Yes
No
Gum protection
Applied by provider
Not controlled
Supervision
Yes
None
Store-bought strips and trays can help maintain results after professional treatment, but they're rarely a substitute for it. If you've tried whitening products without much success, in-office treatment is likely to produce a much better outcome.
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Spanish-speaking care available
Comfort for anxious patients
What to expect during your whitening appointment
Exam and preparation
We start with a quick exam to confirm your teeth and gums are healthy and that whitening is the right fit for your goals. If there's anything that needs to be addressed first, we'll let you know.
Gum protection
A protective barrier is applied to your gum tissue before the whitening gel is placed. This keeps the gel where it belongs and protects the surrounding tissue throughout the process.
Whitening gel application
The professional-grade whitening gel is applied evenly across the front surface of your teeth. Depending on the system used, it may be activated with a light source. The gel works by breaking apart staining molecules within the tooth structure.
Final results and aftercare
Once the treatment is complete, we remove the gel and protective barrier and show you your results. We'll go over aftercare instructions, including what to eat and drink in the first 24 to 48 hours to protect your results, and discuss whether a take-home maintenance option makes sense for you.
Dentistry that works for your life
Convenient hours, real flexibility
Same-day solutions
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Affordable, honest care
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a whitening appointment?
Book online or give us a call. New patients receive a $200 in-office credit that can be applied toward their first visit, which can include whitening as part of the initial exam and cleaning package.
Will whitening work on tetracycline stains?
Tetracycline staining is one of the most difficult types to treat and often does not respond well to whitening alone. In those cases, veneers tend to be a more reliable solution. We'll be upfront about what whitening can and can't do for your specific situation.
How is in-office whitening different from take-home trays?
In-office whitening uses a higher-concentration gel applied under clinical supervision for faster, more dramatic results. Take-home trays use a lower-concentration gel worn over several days or weeks. Both work, but in-office treatment delivers more immediate results. We can recommend the right approach based on your goals and timeline.
Can pregnant or nursing patients whiten their teeth?
We recommend waiting until after pregnancy and nursing to undergo whitening treatment. While there is no definitive evidence of harm, it's a precaution we take seriously.
How soon after whitening can I eat and drink normally?
We recommend avoiding dark-colored foods and drinks for 24 to 48 hours after treatment. This includes coffee, tea, red wine, and anything with strong pigmentation. Your teeth are more porous immediately after whitening and more susceptible to restaining during that window.
Can I whiten if I have crowns, veneers, or fillings?
Whitening gel only affects natural tooth enamel. Existing restorations will not change color, which can result in mismatched shading if they're visible when you smile. We'll evaluate this at your consultation and give you an honest assessment.
Is whitening safe for my enamel?
Yes, when done professionally. We use a controlled application process that protects your enamel and gum tissue. Over-whitening or misuse of store-bought products is more likely to cause sensitivity or damage.
Does teeth whitening hurt?
Some patients experience mild sensitivity during or after treatment, particularly to cold temperatures. It typically resolves within 24 to 48 hours. Let us know before your appointment if you already have sensitive teeth and we'll take that into account.
How long do whitening results last?
With good habits, results typically last one to three years. Avoiding heavy staining foods and drinks, brushing regularly, and doing occasional touch-ups can extend that significantly.
How many shades whiter will my teeth get?
Results vary depending on the starting shade of your teeth and the type of staining present. Most patients see a noticeable difference of several shades after a single in-office treatment.
Located in Ammon, ID
Sunrise Smiles Dentistry is located at 2641 S 25th East in AmSunrise Smiles Dentistry is located at 2641 S 25th East in Ammon, ID, next to Cafe Sabor in the Edwards Theatre Plaza. We proudly serve Ammon, Idaho Falls, Shelley, Rigby, and Rexburg.mon, ID.
