A brighter smile is one of the most noticeable changes you can make, and one of the most requested cosmetic treatments at West End Dental. We offer professional teeth whitening options for patients throughout the Twin Cities, with results that go well beyond what strips and over-the-counter kits can deliver.
Most over-the-counter whitening products work slowly, produce modest results, and leave patients guessing about sensitivity and safety. Professional whitening at West End Dental is different: it uses clinical-grade formulas, custom-fitted trays, and professional oversight to deliver real, lasting results without the guesswork.
The difference is measurable. Professional whitening consistently delivers 3 to 8 shade improvements per treatment course. Over-the-counter methods typically produce 1 to 3 shades under ideal conditions, according to clinical data reviewed across multiple studies. West End Dental offers multiple professional whitening approaches, tailored to your smile goals and sensitivity level.
For patients who prefer a gradual approach or have sensitivity concerns, Dr. Merissa has options available for professional-strength whitening gel to use at home. Most patients see visible improvement within 3 to 5 applications of OpalescenceTM whitening at home, with full results over 1 to 2 weeks of consistent use.
Not sure which option fits your goals? Dr. Merissa will walk you through both during your consultation.
We use Phillips Zoom! in-office whitening to help you achieve a noticeably brighter smile as quickly as possible. Using a professional-strength gel applied directly to your teeth, most patients achieve significant improvement in tooth shade in just one appointment. This treatment is an excellent choice if you have an event coming up, want immediate results, or have tried at-home options without success.
For patients with deep staining, tetracycline discoloration, or whitening challenges that may not respond as well to traditional treatments, we also offer KoR® Whitening. This advanced whitening system combines in-office treatment with customized take-home trays to achieve dramatic, long-lasting results. KoR is designed to safely brighten even some of the most difficult-to-whiten teeth while helping to minimize sensitivity throughout the process.
This before-and-after photo features a real patient’s results with KÖR Whitening at West End Dental. The patient had tetracycline staining, a type of deep intrinsic discoloration that can be difficult to treat. KÖR Whitening helped dramatically brighten their smile safely and effectively.
It’s worth being honest about this: over-the-counter whitening products do work to some degree. But the gap between what a strip delivers and what a professional treatment delivers is significant, and it matters most for patients with noticeable staining or specific goals.
Here’s what professional whitening at West End Dental offers that drugstore products simply can’t match:
Yes. Professional whitening using hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gels is well-studied and considered safe when administered under dental supervision. Neither method has been shown to cause lasting damage to enamel or tooth nerves in clinical research. Temporary sensitivity is the most common side effect and resolves within a day or two.
Most adults with healthy teeth and gums are good candidates. Whitening works best on natural tooth enamel with yellow or brown surface staining from food, coffee, tea, or tobacco. It is less effective on staining caused by certain medications (such as tetracycline) or on crowns, veneers, and bonding. Dr. Merissa will assess your candidacy during your consultation.
Some sensitivity during or after treatment is common and temporary. In-office whitening may cause a brief period of sharper sensitivity that typically resolves within 24 to 48 hours. Take-home trays tend to produce milder sensitivity spread across the treatment period. Dr. Merissa can recommend desensitizing products and adjust your treatment if needed.
Results typically last 6 months to 2 years depending on your diet and habits. Coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco are the main contributors to re-staining. Patients who limit these and maintain regular dental cleanings often see results extend up to 3 years. Touch-up treatments are straightforward and easy to schedule.
No. Clinical research has found no significant difference in enamel damage between professional and at-home whitening methods. Products marketed as “natural” alternatives, such as activated charcoal, have less safety evidence and some have been shown to be abrasive.
No. Whitening agents only work on natural tooth enamel, not on dental restorations like crowns, veneers, or bonding. If you have visible restorations, Dr. Merissa will discuss how to approach whitening so your smile looks even and consistent.
Cost varies depending on whether you choose in-office treatment or custom take-home trays. Our team at West End Dental will provide a clear estimate during your consultation. Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by dental insurance.
If you’re ready to brighten your smile, contact West End Dental to schedule a whitening consultation. Our team will review your goals, assess your candidacy, and recommend the right option for your smile.
West End Dental is located in St. Louis Park, MN, serving patients throughout the Twin Cities. Whether you want fast in-office results or a gradual take-home treatment, Dr. Merissa will help you find the right fit for your smile and your schedule.
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