Where Families in Green Lake Come to Smile
Professional Teeth Whitening in Green Lake, Seattle
Here’s a question we never tire of hearing: “Can you brighten my smile for the holidays?” Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in Seattle, and for good reason. It delivers fast, noticeable results without surgery or downtime. Professional whitening solutions work far better than store-bought strips or trendy DIY remedies, giving you a brighter smile in just one visit or a few weeks of at-home use.
At Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Cherryl Ellison offers an array of cosmetic services, including professional whitening treatments that use higher-strength bleaching agents applied with precision. Whether you’re prepping for a special event or simply want to refresh your appearance, teeth whitening offers one of the quickest paths to a more confident you.
Why Choose Professional Teeth Whitening
Drugstore whitening kits promise dramatic results, but they rarely deliver what you see in the commercials. The bleaching agents in these products are much weaker than those dentists use, and one-size-fits-all trays don’t fit properly. This leads to uneven whitening, gum irritation, and disappointing outcomes.
The Professional Difference
Professional whitening at our Seattle practice starts with an in-depth exam to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy enough for treatment. Dr. Ellison checks for cavities, gum disease, and other issues before moving forward. This step matters because bleaching agents can cause sensitivity or pain if applied to compromised teeth. Once you’re cleared, you’ll choose between in-office whitening for immediate results or take-home trays for gradual brightening on your schedule.
In-Office Whitening
According to the American Dental Association, professional whitening is safe when supervised by a dentist. The key is using products correctly and not overdoing it. Overuse of whitening products can damage enamel and increase sensitivity. At Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry, we use a safe, but high-concentration bleaching gel activated by a special light. The process takes about an hour, and most patients see their teeth lighten by several shades in one session.
Take-Home Whitening Kits
Take-home kits involve custom-fitted trays you wear for 20-30 minutes. Results appear within two weeks, and the trays are reusable if you want to touch up your smile later.
What Causes Tooth Discoloration
Tooth discoloration falls into two categories: extrinsic and intrinsic.
Extrinsic Stains
Extrinsic stains sit on the tooth’s surface and come from foods, drinks, and habits. Coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco are the usual suspects. These stains respond well to professional cleaning. Sometimes all it takes to brighten your smile is a thorough dental cleaning!
Intrinsic Stains
Intrinsic stains develop inside the tooth and are harder to treat. Aging naturally darkens teeth as enamel thins and the yellowish dentin underneath shows through. Certain medications, excessive fluoride during childhood, and trauma can also cause intrinsic discoloration. The success of whitening will depend on the severity of your tooth discoloration. If your case is more severe, porcelain veneers may be a better option for brightening your smile.
And if you’re a new patient? You’ll receive 50% off your first in-office whitening treatment as our way of saying welcome.
Maintaining Your Bright Smile
Whitening isn’t permanent. Your teeth will gradually darken again as you consume staining foods and drinks. The good news is you can extend your results with smart habits. Brush twice daily and floss once to remove surface stains before they set. Rinse your mouth with water after drinking coffee or wine, and consider using a straw for dark beverages to minimize contact with your front teeth.
Regular cleanings and exams help too. Professional cleanings remove plaque and surface stains that brushing alone can’t tackle. Dr. Ellison can also spot early signs of new discoloration and recommend touch-up treatments before stains become noticeable.
If you have take-home whitening trays, keep them safe. You can order more whitening gel from our office and refresh your smile as needed. Most patients touch up every six to twelve months, depending on their habits and goals.
Meet the Doctor
Dr. Cherryl Ellison – Teeth Whitening in Green Lake
Dr. Cherryl Ellison brings honesty, attention to detail, and a calming energy to every cosmetic visit. With over six years of experience and a reputation for helping patients feel comfortable and confident, she provides teeth whitening in Green Lake that’s tailored to your look—not just a generic “one shade fits all” approach.
Is Teeth Whitening Right for You?
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for teeth whitening. If you have sensitive teeth, gum disease, or worn enamel, whitening might cause discomfort or uneven results. Dental crowns, dental fillings, and veneers don’t respond to bleaching, so whitening will create a color mismatch if you have visible restorations. In those cases, replacing the restorations after whitening may be necessary to achieve a uniform appearance.
Young children and teenagers with developing teeth should also avoid whitening until their dentist approves. We can help guide you on the right time for your teen to pursue whitening.
Dr. Ellison evaluates each patient individually to determine the safest, most effective approach. Sometimes whitening is the perfect solution. Other times, cosmetic bonding or veneers deliver better results for severely discolored or misshapen teeth.
Schedule Your Teeth Whitening Consultation at Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry
A brighter smile is closer than you think. Dr. Cherryl Ellison and the team at Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry create personalized whitening plans based on your goals, lifestyle, and dental health. With six years of experience and training through Spear and Seattle Study Clubs, Dr. Ellison combines the latest whitening techniques with a comfortable, patient-focused approach. Whether you want dramatic results in one appointment or prefer the flexibility of at-home trays, we’ll help you find the right option.
We offer convenient same-day appointments and free parking, making it easy to fit teeth whitening into your busy schedule. We accept most major PPO insurance plans and offer flexible financing options through Cherry, including 0% interest for 12 months. Ready to transform your smile? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover how professional teeth whitening can boost your confidence.
Book Your Whitening Appointment Today
Ready to brighten your smile with professional whitening that’s safe, simple, and effective? Schedule your in-office Zoom® treatment today and get 50% off as a new patient.