Professional teeth whitening services are a standard dental procedure to improve your smile. If you’re thinking about teeth whitening, here are a few key facts to know before your visit:
1. Lighter Teeth Are More Attractive Teeth
Scientific evidence shows that having lighter teeth makes you more attractive to others. A simple trip to the dentist could make a big difference in your outward appearance and boost your confidence, too!
2. Coffee and Wine Stain Your Teeth
Bad news, coffee drinkers: your teeth have pores that can absorb the color of food and beverages. Coffee, wine, and berries are some common offenders of yellow teeth. Sadly, a simple brushing alone won’t make this discoloration go away.
3. Professional Whitening Doesn’t Harm Your Teeth
Many people believe that professional teeth whitening can damage their teeth somehow. Thankfully, this is a myth.
Professional whitening temporarily opens the pores in your teeth, which remineralize naturally. Teeth whitening is a safe and effective procedure to brighten your smile.
4. There’s More Than One Option Available
Professional teeth whitening comes in many forms. A common choice is same-day whitening, which happens in the dentist’s chair and only takes about an hour and a half.
Your dentist can also create a custom mold of your teeth for you to wear at home with a whitening solution, which is an easy way to keep your smile looking its best.
5. A Little Sensitivity Is Normal
Many people are surprised to find their teeth feeling extra sensitive after a whitening treatment. However, there is no need to fear! This is a typical side effect and doesn’t indicate anything has gone wrong. The temporary sensitivity disappears after the whitening period ends.
If the increased sensitivity is bothersome, try switching to a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and ask us about other solutions.
6. Whitening Toothpaste Doesn’t Work as Well as Advertised
Several companies offer toothpaste that can whiten your teeth. Unfortunately, these over-the-counter products only remove surface stains and don’t lighten the shade of the tooth itself. An effective tooth whitening system will penetrate through the enamel to whiten from the inside out. Generally, this requires a prescription product from a dental office.
For a whitening solution that lasts, consider a professional teeth whitening procedure.
Dreaming of Whiter Teeth?
Piper Family Dental has years of experience providing professional teeth whitening services. Call our trained dental professionals at (727) 548-7100 today to schedule an appointment and explore which whitening service will work best for you!

Dr. Piper is a General and Cosmetic Dentist who has proudly served Pinellas County since 1993. Both he and his team of professionals provide high quality, gentle dental care in a relaxed, personalized, and caring environment. Treating patients like family sets his practice apart from others.