At Home Teeth Whitening Near Queens and Long Island, NY

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Why Have My Teeth Changed Color?

Teeth lose their brilliance for a number of reasons, including lifestyle habits as well as unavoidable natural processes.

First and most commonly, teeth can be discolored due to drinking certain beverages with potent staining compounds, such as coffee, red wine, and dark sodas. Over time, certain chemicals in these drinks can react with oxygen to form a yellowing of the teeth. This can generally be avoided with proper dental hygiene and regular cleanings, or simply avoiding these beverages.

Compounds found in cigarettes can yellow teeth over time. Tar in cigarette smoke can build up on the teeth and darken them, and nicotine turns yellow when exposed to oxygen, gradually yellowing teeth as well.

At older ages, your body may begin producing more dentin, a yellowish-gray substance beneath the protective enamel coating of teeth, which can show through the enamel, creating the appearance of darker, dimmer teeth.

Any of these and other factors contribute to the yellowing or changing color of teeth, which can be fixed by a personalized teeth whitening treatment plan at Locust Valley Dentistry.

Ready to begin your journey to a healthy smile?

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What Type of Kit Does Dr. Koster Provide for At-Home Teeth Whitening?

Your at-home whitening kit will come with custom-fit trays that have been created from molds of your teeth, as well as a whitening gel solution. The formula of the whitening gel will be tailored to your specific whitening needs.

The trays will be created by taking impressions of your teeth at our Manhattan office, which are then sent to a lab for fabrication. When the trays arrive, we will schedule an appointment to ensure they fit properly and for Dr. Koster to go through the instructions for your custom whitening strategy.

How Do I Use an At-Home Whitening Kit?

Although specifics will vary by patient, at-home whitening is a simple procedure. Brush and floss before applying whitening trays. Once per day, you spread the whitening gel on your trays, then apply them to your teeth as shown by Dr. Koster. Usually, treatments need to remain on your teeth for an hour, or as otherwise instructed. After you remove them, avoid eating or drinking for half an hour.

Depending on your personalized plan, at-home whitening takes about two weeks, during which time you’ll notice an immediate and significant brightening and whitening of your teeth as the treatment works. Dr. Koster will schedule a follow-up appointment after your whitening is over, where she’ll evaluate your results and measure the difference before and after.

Teeth Whitening FAQs

Why have my teeth started to change color?

Tooth discoloration can result from surface stains, changes within the tooth, or both. Common causes include consuming staining foods and drinks, smoking, poor oral hygiene, or natural aging.

Which drinks are most likely to stain teeth?

Beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sodas are most likely to stain teeth because they contain chromogens. Acidic drinks can also erode enamel, making it easier for stains to set in.

How does smoking or tobacco use affect tooth color?

Smoking and tobacco use lead to yellow or brown stains on the teeth due to tar and nicotine exposure. Over time, these stains can penetrate deep into the enamel, making them difficult to remove with regular brushing.

Can aging cause teeth to look darker or more yellow?

As you age, the outer enamel layer naturally wears down, revealing more of the yellow dentin beneath. Years of exposure to staining foods and beverages also contribute to gradual discoloration.

Does good brushing and flossing prevent all tooth discoloration?

While consistent brushing and flossing help prevent plaque buildup and surface stains, they can’t stop all discoloration. Stains caused by aging, medications, or enamel thinning often require professional whitening treatments.

Are stains from coffee, wine, or soda permanent?

Most stains from coffee, wine, or soda are not permanent and can be removed with professional cleanings or whitening treatments. However, if they’re left untreated for a long time, they can become more resistant to removal.

How quickly do at-home whitening treatments show results?

At-home whitening treatments typically show noticeable results within one to two weeks of consistent use. The speed and effectiveness depend on the strength of the whitening agent and the severity of discoloration.

Are store-bought whitening products as effective as professional whitening?

Store-bought whitening products can improve mild surface stains but are less potent than professional treatments. Professional whitening treatments use stronger, customized formulas that provide faster, longer-lasting, and more even results.

How can I prevent my teeth from staining again after whitening?

Avoid staining foods and drinks for at least 48 hours after whitening, and use a straw for dark beverages to minimize contact with enamel. Maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling regular cleanings will help preserve your smile.

How do I know which whitening option is right for me?

The best whitening method depends on the type and cause of your discoloration, your oral health, and your sensitivity level. A consultation with your dentist can help you choose between professional whitening, take-home kits, or other customized options.

Meet Dr. Koster

Thanks to her work at many of Manhattan’s top cosmetic dental practices, Dr. Adrianne Koster has seen how a whiter smile can improve her patients’ appearance and self-confidence. She helps her patients achieve outstanding results and smiles that are healthy and beautiful.

Dr. Koster has been named a “Top New York Dentist” every year since 2016 based on her:

 

  • Attention to detail and skill
  • Warm, caring, and attentive rapport with patients
  • Emphasis on her patients’ happiness and comfort
  • Continued study of the latest dental technology
  • Passion for changing lives through cosmetic dentistry
meet teeth whitening dentist dr koster at locust valley dentists new york

How Do I Use an At-Home Whitening Kit?

Although specifics will vary by patient, at-home whitening is a simple procedure. Brush and floss before applying whitening trays. Once per day, you spread the whitening gel on your trays, then apply them to your teeth as shown by Dr. Koster. Usually, treatments need to remain on your teeth for an hour, or as otherwise instructed. After you remove them, avoid eating or drinking for half an hour.

Depending on your personalized plan, at-home whitening takes about two weeks, during which time you’ll notice an immediate and significant brightening and whitening of your teeth as the treatment works. Dr. Koster will schedule a follow-up appointment after your whitening is over, where she’ll evaluate your results and measure the difference before and after.

Will My Teeth Be Sensitive or Sore?

Because the whitening solution uses a prescription-strength formula of either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, side effects can include tooth sensitivity to heat, cold, or both. Whitening trays are formed to prevent the gel from contacting the gums, where it can cause irritation and sensitivity, however it remains a possibility.

Any sensitivity or soreness experienced as a result of whitening should be temporary, fading fully after a few weeks. If not, schedule an appointment with Dr. Koster to help identify what could be causing the discomfort.

If you’re nervous about visiting the dentist, don’t worry.

At Locust Valley Dentists, we are known for being gentle, warm, and friendly. This will be the most relaxing and comfortable dental experience of your life! To decrease anxiety during treatment we offer our patients:

Eyewear

Headphones

Soothing music

Blankets

Aromatherapy

Location

  • Convenient office hours to fit the busiest schedules

Philosophy

  • There’s never any stress or judgment here

Office

  • Our modern, calm, and relaxing office is one of a kind

Education

  • Learn how whiter teeth can improve your appearance and life

No Insurance? No problem.

Even if you don’t have dental insurance, you can still get the bright and white smile you’ve always dreamed about! At Locust Valley Dentists, we provide a variety of financing options. We’re here to answer all of your questions.

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Insurance & Financing

For your cosmetic treatment, our office is able to work with many PPO insurances.

Our friendly front office team will help you file your claim and maximize your insurance benefits. If you don’t see your provider listed or if you have questions about payment options, contact our office to learn more.

teeth whitening with no insurance at locust valley dentists new york

" The doctors and staff at this office are amazing! Some of the nicest people you can hope to meet, and the dental work that I received was phenomenal. The office is inviting, and the care that is taken to make sure things are done correctly is top tier. Great experience. "

- Roger V.

"Dr. Koster has done extensive dental work for me over the years. She is both kind and caring. She is thorough in her work and takes the time to explain in detail what she is doing. Her compassionate nature has a calming effect during her work. "

-Thomas H.

" Both my daughter and I have been patients of Dr Koster's and we couldn't be happier. She has a gentle demeanor and is super thorough. She shows genuine concern for our teeth and gives us advice on what to keep doing/do more of to keep them healthy. Her office staff are really nice too. I am grateful to be in their good hands. "

- Dawn C. 

Our Office

5 Weir Lane,
Locust Valley,  New York 11560
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Phone: (516) 759-2288

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