Lumin8 Dentistry provides teeth whitening in Lakewood, WA. Call (253) 581-6140 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Every smile tells a story, but stains from coffee, red wine, and years of daily wear can dim the narrative you want to share. That’s where professional teeth whitening comes into play. Professional teeth whitening transforms discolored teeth into a bright, confident grin that opens doors in social settings and professional environments alike. At Lumin8 Dentistry, we offer advanced cosmetic dentistry services, including teeth whitening treatments designed to help Lakewood residents achieve the radiant smile they deserve. Dr. Jun Carrington and our experienced team use state-of-the-art technology to deliver safe, effective whitening results tailored to your unique dental needs.What Causes Tooth Discoloration?
Tooth discoloration develops from both external and internal factors.External Discoloration
Surface stains accumulate from consuming dark-colored foods and beverages, such as berries, coffee, and tea. Tobacco use accelerates yellowing and creates stubborn brown stains that resist basic brushing.Internal Discoloration
Intrinsic discoloration occurs inside the tooth structure itself. Aging naturally thins enamel, revealing more of the yellowish dentin beneath. This may occur because of:- Certain medications
- Too much fluoride exposure during tooth development
- Dental trauma
Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene also contributes to discoloration. When plaque gathers on the teeth, it can harden into tartar, which appears yellow or brown. Regular cleanings and checkups help remove surface stains before they become deeply embedded in tooth enamel.Professional Whitening Options
In-office whitening treatments are the most powerful option, delivering dramatic results in a single appointment. We apply a concentrated bleaching gel to your teeth and may use special lights to enhance the whitening process. Most patients see their teeth lighten by several shades in about an hour. This option works well for people who want immediate results before special events like weddings, job interviews, or family photos. The procedure begins with protecting your gums and soft tissues. We carefully isolate your teeth and apply the whitening gel, which penetrates enamel to break down stain molecules. You relax in our comfortable office while the treatment works, and you leave with noticeably whiter teeth the same day.Take-Home Whitening Kits
Custom take-home trays offer flexibility for patients who prefer whitening at their own pace. We create custom trays that fit your teeth perfectly and provide professional-grade whitening gel. You wear the trays for a specified time each day, typically achieving optimal results within two weeks. This method gives you control over your whitening schedule. Many patients prefer to apply the gel in the evening, while watching television or before bed. The custom fit ensures the gel stays where it belongs, minimizing gum irritation while maximizing contact with tooth surfaces.Combining Treatments
Some patients benefit from combining in-office and take-home treatments. We may recommend starting with an in-office session to jumpstart the whitening process, then maintaining results with periodic take-home treatments. This approach balances immediate results with long-term brightness.Maintenance and Touch-Ups
Whitening results can last several months to a few years, depending on your habits and oral care routine. We may recommend periodic touch-ups to maintain your bright smile, especially if you regularly consume staining substances. Many patients schedule touch-up treatments every six months alongside their routine dental cleanings. Between professional treatments, you can extend results by limiting exposure to staining foods and beverages. Using a straw when drinking coffee or tea reduces direct contact with front teeth. Rinsing your mouth with water after consuming dark-colored items helps wash away staining compounds before they settle into enamel.Why Choose Professional Whitening Over Store-Bought Products?
What Makes You a Good Candidate for Tooth Whitening?
Ideal candidates have healthy teeth and gums with no untreated dental issues. Yellow-toned stains typically respond better to whitening than gray or brown discoloration. Teeth darkened by medications like tetracycline may require alternative cosmetic dentistry solutions such as veneers or bonding. We evaluate your dental history and examine your teeth to determine if whitening will achieve your desired results. If you have sensitive teeth, receding gums, or enamel erosion, we will discuss whether whitening is appropriate or if you need preparatory treatments first. Our goal is to help you achieve a brighter smile safely and comfortably. Pregnant or nursing women should postpone whitening treatments as a precaution. While no evidence suggests whitening harms developing babies, we prefer to wait until after pregnancy and breastfeeding to eliminate any potential concerns.Get Started With Tooth Whitening at Lumin8 Dentistry
A brighter smile may be just one appointment away. At Lumin8 Dentistry, we combine advanced whitening technology with personalized care to help Lakewood residents achieve stunning results. Dr. Carrington earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Nevada and completed advanced training at the prestigious Kois Center, bringing extensive knowledge to every cosmetic procedure. His dedication to continuing education ensures you receive treatment based on data-driven techniques and best practices. Our conveniently located office in the heart of Lakewood makes scheduling easy for busy families. We offer flexible appointment times and utilize cutting-edge digital dentistry technology to provide efficient, comfortable care. Whether you choose in-office whitening or custom take-home trays, you’ll receive the same commitment to excellence that defines everything we do. Contact us today to schedule your whitening consultation and discover what professional tooth whitening can do for your smile.Affiliations & Education
