A brighter smile is closer than you think.
Professional whitening that actually works — up to 8 shades in one visit.
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overview
Why professional whitening?
Dr. de la Paz performs in-office whitening and provides custom take-home trays — both far more effective than anything available over the counter. He'll help you choose the right option based on your teeth, staining level, and goals.
Results vary by person, but in-office treatment can lighten teeth up to 8 shades in a single session — compared to roughly 1 shade with store-bought products.
Unlike dentures or bridges, implants are permanent and help preserve your jawbone, preventing the bone loss that occurs after tooth loss.Book a Consultation
Your options
Which whitening option is right for you?
01
In-office whitening
One 30–60 minute appointment. Up to 8 shades lighter. Dr. de la Paz applies a high-strength whitening gel, protects your gums throughout, and you walk out noticeably brighter the same day.
Perfect if you have a special occasion coming up, stubborn staining from coffee or wine, or simply want the most dramatic result possible.
02
At-home professional kit
We take impressions of your teeth and create a custom-fit tray — designed to keep the gel exactly where it needs to be and away from your gums. Wear it nightly for one to two weeks for results that still far outperform anything from a drugstore.
A great option if you prefer whitening at your own pace, or for maintaining your results between visits.
The process
How it works
Professional cleaning first
A dental cleaning is recommended before whitening to remove surface plaque and ensure an even, effective result.
Gum protection applied
A gel or rubber shield is applied to protect your gum tissue from the bleaching agent — a key advantage over DIY kits, which frequently cause gum irritation.
Whitening product applied
Professional-strength whitening gel is applied directly to the teeth. A special light, heat, or laser may be used to activate and speed up the process.
Results revealed
The full procedure takes 30–60 minutes. You'll see an immediate, dramatic difference in shade. Multiple sessions may be scheduled for maximum results.
Not right for everyone
Who should avoid teeth whitening?
Whitening is best for healthy adults. It may not be recommended if any of the following apply:
Pregnant or nursing mothers — whitening should be postponed.
Patients under 16 — tooth pulp is still enlarged and more sensitive to bleaching agents.
Those with many restorations (crowns, bridges, bonding) — restorations don't whiten, which can cause uneven color.
Peroxide allergies — a contraindication for all bleaching products.
Heavily discolored teeth (gray or blue hues) — veneers, bonding, or crowns may be a better alternative.
what our patients usually ask us
Frequently Asked Questions
How many shades whiter will my teeth get?
Does it hurt?
How long does an appointment take?
Can I whiten if I have fillings or crowns?
How long do results last?
Insurances We Work With
At Bright Smile Dental, we provide efficient, educational, and judgement-free dental services for Tacoma community members in search of relief for their dental pain or other concerns.
