Cosmetic
Teeth whitening
Professional whitening supervised by a dentist, with shade tracking before and after so you can see the change in numbers, not just in the mirror.
- In-office
- One 90-minute visit
- Take-home
- 10 to 14 evenings
- Typical change
- 4 to 8 shades (results vary)
What to expect from teeth whitening
Store-bought strips whiten the front of the smile unevenly and often leave teeth sensitive. Professional whitening uses stronger gels in a controlled way, with your gums protected and a desensitizer built into the plan.
We record your starting shade, confirm that fillings or crowns on front teeth will not stand out after whitening, and then recommend either a single in-office session or custom trays for gradual results at home.
What is included
Every teeth whitening plan at Northstar covers these steps as standard.
- 01Pre-whitening exam and cleaning check
- 02Shade photos before and after treatment
- 03Gum barrier and sensitivity-reducing gel
- 04Custom-fit trays made from a digital scan
- 05Two touch-up gel syringes
- 06Follow-up shade check at your next cleaning
How the process works
- 1
Shade and scan
We photograph your current shade and scan for custom trays.
- 2
Protect
Gums and lips are isolated so gel only touches enamel.
- 3
Whiten
Three timed gel cycles in office, or nightly wear at home.
- 4
Maintain
Touch-up gel and tips to keep coffee and tea staining in check.
Why patients choose it
Went up six shades with the take-home trays. A little sensitivity the first few nights, but the desensitizer gel helped.
Even results
Custom trays reach every tooth, not just the flat front surfaces.
Less sensitivity
Dentist-selected gel strength and desensitizer reduce zingers.
Planned around dental work
We flag fillings or crowns that will not change color first.
Lasting shade
With touch-ups, most patients hold their new shade for years.
What affects the cost
Take-home trays typically range from $295 to $395, in-office whitening from $550 to $750 (sample figures).
We share a written estimate, including your insurance portion, before treatment begins.
Insurance and financing- 1Method
- In-office sessions cost more than take-home trays.
- 2Starting shade
- Deep or grey staining may need longer tray wear.
- 3Existing restorations
- Front crowns or bonding may need replacing to match.
- 4Insurance
- Whitening is cosmetic and is not covered by dental insurance.
Teeth whitening FAQ
Some patients feel mild, short-lived sensitivity. We use desensitizing gel and can adjust concentration or wear time.
No. Porcelain and composite do not change color, which is why we check front restorations before we start.
Typically one to three years, longer with touch-ups and less coffee, tea or red wine.
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Book your teeth whitening visit
Tell us what you need and when you are free. Our front desk confirms within one business day.
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