Lafayette Teeth whitening at Life Dentistry
Teeth whitening is one of the safest, affordable, and common cosmetic dentistry treatments in America. Millions of Americans whiten their teeth every year. Whether you are looking to reverse yellowing or staining caused by the use of tobacco, aging, or even drinking too much coffee or tea, teeth whitening is an effective way to spruce up your smile.
Teeth whitening is also exceptionally convenient. At Life Dentistry, Dr. Martin offers both in-office and at-home teeth whitening, using high-quality KoR and Zoom whitening products.
If you’re interested in teeth whitening Lafayette, CO at Life Dentistry, here are a few things to know about what to expect, and the benefits of our services.
What to know about getting your teeth professionally whitened
Every type of teeth whitening product uses the same basic principles. Highly-reactive oxygen molecules called peroxides to interact with the stains on your teeth, and break the molecular bonds that hold these stains in place.
As a result, the stains on your teeth are bleached away, and you’re left with a bright, more beautiful smile. Products containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide can be used to treat every kind of external stain.
At Life Dentistry, you also have the choice of two different in-office teeth whitening products, as well as at-home whitening.
For in-office whitening, we use KoR for most patients. This is the best choice if you can come back for multiple whitening sessions. However, if you need fast results for a special event, Zoom teeth whitening can be used to give you a bright, white smile in just a single appointment.
If you would prefer to whiten your teeth in the comfort of your own home, you can also get custom-built whitening trays from Dr. Martin. These trays are just as effective as in-office treatments but take longer to produce the same results. Over a period of several weeks, you’ll wear your trays as directed by Dr. Martin, and the end result will be a beautiful, bright, and stain-free smile.
While in-office and at-home teeth whitening can effectively lighten your smile by several shades, those with extreme discoloring may consider dental veneers as a more intensive treatment for cosmetically enhancing highly stained and discolored teeth.
What are the benefits of professional teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening has a number of great benefits. First, it can make you look younger, because it reverses the natural yellowing of enamel due to age.
Second, teeth whitening can boost your self-confidence, particularly if you avoid smiling or laughing because of tooth stains due to tobacco use, or the overconsumption of beverages like coffee, tea, and wine.
Teeth whitening is also a great way to improve your smile before a special event such as a wedding or a photoshoot. You’ll be able to smile with confidence, and know that you will look your best.
Finally, teeth whitening is the most affordable cosmetic dentistry treatment available, so just about anyone can afford to whiten their smile.
Are there any side effects when you whiten your teeth?
Tooth sensitivity is a relatively common side effect caused by teeth whitening. Your teeth may feel more sensitive to heat and cold for a few days after your treatment. You can use a toothpaste like Sensodyne to help with this side effect, and switch back to your normal toothpaste once your teeth no longer feel sensitive.
Gum irritation is also possible, but unlikely if you have your teeth whitened professionally. Your gums will only become irritated if the peroxide (whitener) contacts them during your treatment. This won’t happen with professional in-office or take-home whitening, so it’s not a major concern.
How long will my whitening treatment last?
This mostly depends on how well you care for your teeth after treatment. Your newly-whitened smile will last for 1-3 years, in most cases. Even with proper care, your teeth may become stained again over time, so regular touch-ups and whitening treatments from Life Dentistry are a good way to keep your smile bright!
First, brush twice a day for two minutes and floss once per day. You should also see Dr. James Martin for an oral exam and cleaning every six months. This helps prevent stain buildup and keeps your smile healthy.
Another good way to keep your teeth white is to switch to whitening toothpaste and mouthwash that contain small amounts of peroxide. Regularly using these products will help prevent and reverse minor staining.
You may also want to consider cutting down on your consumption of staining beverages like coffee, tea, wine, or cola. You should also brush your teeth or rinse your mouth after you drink one of these beverages to prevent stain buildup. You can also consider drinking these beverages with a straw. Using a straw will prevent the liquid from contacting your teeth, keeping your smile bright.
It is important to also stop using tobacco products of any kind. If you continue to smoke and/or use oral tobacco products after your teeth have been whitened, you will ruin your smile within just a few months.
Whats the difference between professional and over-the-counter whitening?
Professional whitening is safer, more effective, and offers better overall results. Some ADA-approved over-the-counter treatments, like Crest Whitestrips, do offer decent results. However, they are usually quite weak compared to professional treatments, and will never offer the same customized results.
In addition, there are lots of whitening kits out there, particularly online, that have a dangerously high level of peroxide. This can ruin your teeth and harm your gums, and cause permanent damage to your smile.
There are also some other OTC products that are completely ineffective, and can permanently damage your enamel. Charcoal toothpaste, for example, is supposed to whiten your teeth, but really, the harsh abrasive charcoal in the toothpaste wears away your top layer of enamel. This may remove some stains, but it also permanently damages your teeth.
To get the best results and ensure your smile remains safe and healthy, we recommend that you turn to a professional like Dr. James Martin for a smile makeover at Life Dentistry.
How much does it usually cost to get your teeth whitening?
The average cost of teeth whitening in-office is $650, although it can climb to $1,000 or more, depending on the type of product used and how much your dentist charges.
Do you have more questions about whitening your teeth?
If you have questions about teeth whitening, or you would like to schedule an appointment, contact Life Dentistry now! Dr. Martin would be happy to discuss your particular needs and help you decide if teeth whitening is the right choice for you.
"I can’t explain how much of a difference the team at Life Dentistry is making in my life. For many reasons (major anxiety among others) I have neglected my dental care for a very long time. Not only does every person there make me feel validated, cared for, and not judged, they all make sacrifices in doing things the “easier” way to make my experience a better one. I have told friends about my experiences and some almost don’t believe me because I’m telling people how good a dentist’s office is!"
Nicole L., Google Review
"This is by far the best dentist office I have ever been too. I would recommend them to anyone, especially those with fears of going. I have never felt more welcomed or treated with as much respect."
Darby M., Google Review
"I have a major phobia of the dentist. Which has made me not go when I've needed too. After my initial call, the office emailed and text to follow up to have me make an appointment. Dr. Martin was great. He talked me through the first step of work I would need, and he made me feel comfortable. I was put under for my first step of work. I got a text the next day to follow up on my care and Dr. Martin talked me through the concerns I had. All of the team was wonderful as well! I appreciate this office and what they do to help people get the care they need."
Rebecca D., Google Review
"I'm completely amazed by how wonderful the staff is here as well as Dr. Martin. I can honestly say that I have never been this comfortable at a dentist's office in my life. Dr. Martin truly cares about his patients and is passionate about what he does. I have low sinuses and he was able to extract my tooth without perforating my sinus. That was a first for me. He listens to his patients. I will never go anywhere else for dental care. From the first point of contact with his office to my most recent follow-up appointment today, the care, the kindness, and the helpfulness have been genuine and consistent!"
Jesse G., Google Review
"Best dentist I've ever had. Everyone on the team is friendly and very knowledgeable. They really make going to the dentist a relaxing experience instead of an anxious one."
Dan C., Google Review
"This is the best dentist I’ve ever been to! Go here and you’ll be completely satisfied."
Lauren Y., Facebook Review
"Thousand Stars! When your child has been marred by dentists. When she has had complicated procedures (done at this office) and says, "I'm excited to go to the dentist tomorrow!" You know they are doing something right! I highly recommend Life Dentistry!"
Carri T., Google Review
"Dr. Martin and staff are great. I'm generally not a fan of going to the dentist, but the folks at Life Dentistry have been wonderful. They provide more amenities and services than you can shake a stick at and they maintain the nicest and most technologically advanced facilities I've been treated in"
Max T., Google Review
"The service was excellent! Very caring and compassionate staff. Dr. Martin's testing was very thorough with an explanation of each test before he continued. The cleaning was also carefully and thoroughly performed. An all-around good experience."
Sandy D., Google Review
"Phenomenal care from the front desk staff up to the dentist. Everyone is genuine and caring. The doctor does great work, he's honest and fair. I have had no good experiences going to the dentist, until now. The atmosphere is comfortable, the staff truly is passionate about their work and everyone introduces who they are so you're not feeling uneasy with a bunch of random people coming in and out. My husband has low sinuses and Dr. Martin was able to extract a top molar without perforating his sinus. I will always come here for my care and my husband feels the same. I highly recommend Life Dentistry and will refer all my friends and family."
Manda, Google Review
"I will say like most people I have been avoiding a visit to the Dentist for several years due to a bad experience however after visiting Dr. Martin at Life Dentistry everything changed and my fears were put to rest from the get-go, the consultation process was the key where Dr. Martin walked me thru each of the steps and options thoroughly, calmed my nerves down. Now since I have had the procedure, I will say I made the right choice by choosing this practice. Went to a few prior and every place was more focussed with cost, here at Life Dentistry it is the empathy and calming level that is provided which is much needed. Thanks again."
Karl F., Facebook Review
"Dr. Martin and his team are absolutely the best! I neglected my teeth for years and avoided the dentist, even though I work in the dental field. I was embarrassed and scared and the longer I waited the worse my teeth became. I needed treatment for almost every tooth in my mouth. Dr. Martin put together a plan for me and I made the commitment to improve my oral health and my entire life changed! I don’t know where I would be at age 51 if I had waited a day longer, truly. Unfortunately, I lost two teeth and needed implants to replace them. Dr. Martin placed and restored both areas with beautiful implants and they look and feel amazing! I can’t say enough about Dr. Martin and his team at Life Dentistry! Skilled, compassionate, extremely educated, and knowledgeable! I now understand “Life Dentistry’s” philosophy ~Truly life-changing for me!"
KL Zamboni, Google Review
"Dr. Martin is the best there is and his staff is very friendly, caring, and helpful! My husband went to see them, as I recommended this is the place to go because of the aforementioned and this is the first time in decades he has been to the dentist due to fear of the dentist but when you are in pain you have to face your fears. They made him feel so comfortable and allowed him to be in control of every decision. There was no judgment only a listening ear and kindly advice with the encouragement of the best thing to do. In the end, he was out of pain and made comfortable enough to want to come back and get his oral health in the best shape possible! I am so happy as good health starts with oral health and Dr. Martin is the one to help you get there!"
Jenn K., Google Review
"I have been seeing Dr. Martin and his team for just about a year now. I have had a fear of the dentist, due to a bad experience YEARS ago, and I have allowed that to contribute to not going to the dentist and poor oral care. When I first visited Dr. Martin's office, I basically cried and shook with anxiety during just the initial consultation and Xrays. I have had several procedures done by Dr. Martin now, and today for the first time in my adult life, I had a cleaning done with NO SEDATION! I was still a little anxious, more nervous honestly, but I made it through with no issues. No tears. No uncontrollable shaking. The fact that in a year's time I went from a ball of absolute anxious chaos to being able to voluntarily sit for a procedure and be alert the entire time speaks volumes. And it says just how amazing Dr. Martin and his team really are. Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!"
Dawnia J., Google Review
"It started on a Friday when I called and spoke to Veronica who was very pleasant. Veronica informed me of the next appointment available and I left it at that. As I was at lunch with colleagues and received a text message from Dr. Martin inviting me in that day to take a look at my abscess. I was floored and graciously accepted. During that initial visit, we created a plan of care based on his recommendations.
I’ve been extremely happy and even enthusiastic about each visit. I’ve gotten to know Veronica, Randi, and Dr. Martin during my care. All the details get taken care of proactively.
Do yourself a favor and visit this practice!"
Chris B., Google Review
"Two thumbs up to my people at Life Dentistry! Absolutely love these guys!!! Thank you, Dr. Martin and your All-star team for all you do!"
Miles O., Google Review
"Everyone at life dentistry is very skilled. but it's more than skill
they make you feel relaxed and actually happy to be there. I think anyone dreading the dentist, which is pretty much everyone, should go to life dentistry. it will make your day and change your life."
Thomas S., Facebook Review
"Always takes such care and follows up after."
Donna B., Google Review
"I have been very impressed with Life Dentistry and their exceptional customer service. They have exceeded my expectations consistently, especially Randi in the office. Thank you!"
Jason K., Google Review
"What a great first experience!! Everyone in the office was professional, thorough, and caring. I felt very informed about the procedures that I had coming up in my next appointment and never felt rushed. I’m thrilled to have found a dentist who really seems to care!"
Timothy S., Google Review
"The staff is perfect at working with people who are terrified of the dentist. They are incredibly understanding, compassionate, and flexible. You can’t go wrong with these guys!"
Angela P., Google Review
"I have followed Dr. Martin to 3 different offices now. So excited that he opened his own practice. He is absolutely amazing. I can't say enough wonderful things about him and his staff. Marie the dental hygienist is also so fantastic. I cannot recommend this place enough! So great!"
Ashley L., Google Review
"Great experience with Dr. Martin. The staff is very friendly and very easy to work with. Your care and comfort are truly their first priority!"
Lydia H., Google Review
"Hands down the best staff I have ever had. The team is wonderful and makes you feel right at home. I would recommend to anyone especially if you are nervous about having work done they make everything as easy and comfortable as possible for their patients."
Tyler O., Google Review
"By far the best dentist I have ever been too! I have been through quite a few different practices but Dr. Martin Is the best I have ever been to. Randi Veronica and Marie make you feel right at home and at ease when you walk in the door! They are all happy friendly and professional but yet make you feel like family. They have me looking forward to going to the dentist which I thought I would never say! Thank you all for being so great at what you do!"
J.R., Google Review
"Dr. Martin and his team of amazing people have changed my mind and fears about dentistry! After refusing to go to the dentist for years due to anxiety, I had a tooth break and was left with little choice in the matter. Life Dentistry snuck me in last minute on a Friday and treated me and my teeth with such kindness. I’ve been back two times already for crown fittings and cleaning and plan on keeping my appointments up every six months. The office is so modern and beautiful, there are TVs at every chair and they offer ice cream after your visit. All these extras are bonuses but nothing compared to the amazing staff. They make every visit calm and friendly! Sure, I still don’t love having my teeth scraped with metal, but the conversation during makes it much better! Thank you Life Dentistry!"
Carrie, Google Review
"Wonderful staff! The dentist is very personable and friendly. They made me & my anxious wife feel very comfortable. He was down to earth which is also a bonus."
Caan W., Google Review
"Dr. Martin and his employees are the best! I take my elderly mom to them and they are so sweet, helpful, and patient with her."
Carol F., Facebook Review
"I was drawn to Dr. Martin’s practice by all of the outstanding reviews and I was not disappointed.
It started on a Friday when I called and spoke to Veronica who was very pleasant. Veronica informed me of the next appointment available and I left it at that. As I was at lunch with colleagues and received a text message from Dr. Martin inviting me in that day to take a look at my abscess. I was floored and graciously accepted. During that initial visit, we created a plan of care based on his recommendations.
I’ve been extremely happy and even enthusiastic about each visit. I’ve gotten to know Veronica, Randi, and Dr. Martin during my care. All the details get taken care of proactively.
Do yourself a favor and visit this practice!"
Chris B., Facebook Review
"l hate going to the dentist, this office changed my mind. If you avoid the dentist, try these guys; they have ice cream and medication to help you through the worst parts. They also take the time to discuss and answer all treatment questions."
Lisa J., Facebook Review
"l hate going to the dentist, this office changed my mind. If you avoid the dentist, try these guys; they have ice cream and medication to help you through the worst parts. They also take the time to discuss and answer all treatment questions."
Lisa J., Facebook Review
"I can’t explain how much of a difference the team at Life Dentistry is making in my life. For many reasons (major anxiety among others) I have neglected my dental care for a very long time. Not only does every person there make me feel validated, cared for, and not judged, they all make sacrifices in doing things the “easier” way to make my experience a better one. I have told friends about my experiences and some almost don’t believe me because I’m telling people how good a dentist’s office is!
I will never see another dentist; Dr. Martin has gained a patient for as long as he’ll let me come back! Thank you to the whole team there, Kimberly, Sue, Veronica, and Dr. M. You really are making my life and overall health better because of how amazing you are."
Nicole L., Facebook Review
"I love the staff they all are very welcoming and made me feel welcomed. I have had horrible experiences in the past and this team made sure that would never happen again... I found my forever dentist. Thank you again Life Dentistry you all ROCK... see you soon."
Stephanie J., Facebook Review