A brighter smile can lift your whole look in a single visit. At Blue Dental Clinic on the Upper East Side, we offer safe, effective whitening options—customized to your enamel, habits, and shade goals—so results look natural, not overdone.

Why choose us for whitening

• Personalized planning: Shade analysis and sensitivity screening to match the right system to you.
• Two proven options: Fast in-office whitening and custom take-home trays for gradual brightening.
• Sensitivity care: Desensitizing gels, fluoride varnish, and gentle protocols to keep you comfortable.
• Insurance-friendly: Up-front estimates, benefits checked, and clear payment options.

Whitening options

• In-office whitening: One appointment delivers a noticeable jump in shade with professional-strength gel and careful isolation of gums and lips. Great for events or quick refreshes.
• Custom take-home trays: Precisely fitted trays and professional gel worn daily for 1–2 weeks (or as directed). Ideal for sensitive teeth or maintaining an in-office result.
• Combo approach: Start in office, maintain at home for longer-lasting brightness.
• Internal bleaching (non-vital): For a single dark tooth after root canal—lightens from the inside.

Who’s a good candidate?

• Healthy teeth and gums with surface or generalized discoloration
• Stains from coffee, tea, wine, or age
• Darkened tooth after trauma/root canal (internal bleaching)
  We’ll address active cavities, gum issues, or heavy tartar before whitening for best—and safest—results.

What to expect

1. Consult & shade read: Photos/shade guide; discuss goals and timeline (event date, photos, etc.).
2. Protection & application (in-office): Gum barrier placed; whitening gel applied in short, monitored cycles.
3. Rinse & re-check: We compare before/after shades and review aftercare.
4. Take-home plan: Custom trays made from digital scans or impressions; you’ll get detailed wear and storage instructions.

Sensitivity management

• Pre-treat with fluoride or potassium nitrate toothpaste for 1–2 weeks.
• Shorter wear times and lower-percentage gels if you’re prone to “zingers.”
• Post-treatment fluoride varnish or desensitizing gel as needed.
  Most sensitivity is mild and fades within 24–48 hours.

How long do results last?

Commonly 6–12 months, depending on diet and habits. Touch-ups with your custom trays keep the shade fresh. Rinse with water after coffee/tea/wine and keep regular cleanings.

Whitening vs. other options

• Bonding/veneers may be better for intrinsic stains (e.g., tetracycline bands), white/brown spots, or shape issues.
• Planning veneers or bonding? Whiten first, then color-match restorations to your new shade.

Cost & insurance

Whitening is typically cosmetic and not covered; internal bleaching may be covered in select cases. We’ll provide transparent pricing, verify any benefits, and offer payment options.

FAQs

Will whitening damage enamel?
Professional gels used as directed are safe. We protect soft tissues and monitor exposure closely.

How many shades lighter can I go?
Many patients see a change of 2–8 shades. Your starting color and stain type influence the final result.

Can I whiten with fillings or crowns?
Whitening does not change restoration color. We may recommend updating visible restorations after whitening for a perfect match.

Is whitening okay during Invisalign?
Usually best after active movement. We’ll time touch-ups during refinement or after you’re finished.

What about white spots?
Whitening can make contrast more noticeable initially; we can follow with spot treatments (e.g., microabrasion/ICON) if needed.



Ready to brighten your smile?

Book a whitening consult at our Upper East Side office. We’ll choose the best option for your teeth and timeline—and send you out with a confident, camera-ready glow.