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Teeth Whitening

General and Cosmetic Dentistry located in Houston and Pearland, TX

Teeth Whitening services offered in Houston and Pearland, TX


If you drink coffee or use tobacco, your teeth may look brown, yellow, or discolored. Though there’s no way to turn back the clock, teeth whitening provides the next best thing. At TLN Family Dental, general and cosmetic dentists Tammeka Nickleberry, DDS, Esther Oluwo, DDS, Taylor Provost, DDS, and Precious Ude, DDS, provide in-office teeth whitening with the Opalescence® teeth whitening system. To make an appointment, call the nearest office in Houston or Pearland, Texas, or book online today.

Teeth Whitening Q&A


What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure designed to minimize stains and discoloration caused by poor oral hygiene, bad habits, or the natural aging process. It’s a quick, convenient, and non-invasive treatment that provides results for several months at a time.

If you have brown, yellow, or discolored teeth, and you’ve tried various at-home treatments without seeing an improvement, consider in-office teeth whitening at TLN Family Dental.

Why do teeth change color?

Teeth change color for various reasons, but the most common cause is the natural aging process. Over the years, daily activities like biting and chewing cause the outer layer of your teeth (enamel) to wear away, which reveals more of the yellow dentin beneath. Dentin also affects the way light reflects off your smile.

Other factors that may contribute to tooth discoloration include:

  • Using tobacco
  • Drinking coffee, tea, or red wine
  • Eating certain foods
  • Taking medications with tetracycline

You might also experience discolored teeth if you undergo extensive dental work or get hit in the mouth.

How does Opalescence teeth whitening work?

Opalescence teeth whitening is an in-office procedure that takes about 45-60 minutes.

Your provider reviews your dental records, asks about your goals, and conducts an oral exam. If there are visible stains or discoloration and you have healthy teeth, you qualify for treatment.

Your provider covers your gums and tongue with a protective rubber sheet. Next, they apply the Opalescence whitening gel to areas with visible stains or buildup.

The whitening gel contains active ingredients like carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. These ingredients penetrate your tooth enamel and oxidize the molecules responsible for the stains. The oxidation process lightens your entire tooth, helping you achieve a beautiful, white, Hollywood-worthy smile.

To ensure you’re happy with the results, your TLN Family Dental provider repeats the same steps multiple times.

How long do the results of Opalescence teeth whitening last?

The results of Opalescence teeth whitening last between four and six months* on average, but it’s possible to extend them with good oral hygiene. TLN Family Dental recommends brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing once a day, and when drinking dark beverages — use a straw.

It’s also important to visit TLN Family Dental at least two times a year for an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning.

Make an appointment for Opalescence teeth whitening at TLN Family Dental. Call the nearest office to speak with a staff member or click the online booking feature today.