Sedation Dentistry
July 18, 2025
Your Smile Doesn’t Have to Stay Hidden
Professional Teeth Whitening at Modern Dental Associates
You catch yourself doing it again. Smiling with your lips pressed together in photos. Covering your mouth when you laugh. Avoiding that morning coffee because you know it’s making things worse.
Living with stained or yellowed teeth affects more than your appearance. It chips away at your confidence every day. You notice people’s eyes focus on your teeth when you speak. You feel your being judged by your smile. Maybe you’ve even passed up on parties or stayed silent in business meetings.
We understand how that feels. Every week at Modern Dental Associates. Every, patients tell us how tooth discoloration has embarrassed them or held them baack. The good news? You don’t have to live this way. Professional teeth whitening can transform your smile, sometimes in just one visit.
Why Your Teeth Lost Their Brightness
Tooth discoloration happens to nearly everyone. Your morning coffee leaves its mark. That glass of red wine takes its toll. Even simple joys like berries, tea, and tomato sauce add to the damage.
Age plays a role too. Enamel naturally thins over time. The yellowish dentin underneath starts showing through. Certain medications can cause deep staining. Even genetics influence your teeth’s natural shade.
But here’s what matters most: stained teeth don’t reflect poor hygiene or neglect. They’re simply a natural consequence of living life. And now, advanced professional teeth whitening can reverse years of staining both safely and effectively.
The Opalescence® Difference: Science Meets Comfort
Modern Dental Associates chose Opalescence® whitening systems for good reasons. This isn’t grocery store whitening strips or internet gimmicks. Opalescence® represents professional-grade treatment backed by decades of research.
Our two Opalescence® options address different needs and lifestyles:
Opalescence Boost® Chairside Whitening: Dramatic Results in One Hour
Imagine you walk into Modern Dental Associates with stained teeth. Then walk out an hour later with a smile up to five shades brighter. That’s the power of Opalescence Boost®.
This in-office treatment uses a chemically activated formula. No harsh lights that dry your teeth. No uncomfortable heat. The 40% hydrogen peroxide gel works quickly and comfortably. We protect your gums with a special barrier. Then we apply the whitening gel in precise doses.
Many patients choose chairside whitening before important events. Job interviews. Weddings. Reunions. When you need results fast, Opalescence Boost® delivers.
The treatment includes potassium nitrate and fluoride. These ingredients actually strengthen your enamel while whitening. You’re not just getting whiter teeth, they’ll be healthier too.
Opalescence® At-Home Tray Whitening: Professional Results on Your Schedule
Not everyone can spare an hour for in-office treatment. That’s why we offer Opalescence® take-home whitening. This system brings professional results to your home.
We start by creating custom trays that fit your teeth perfectly. No one-size-fits-all strips that slide around. Your trays hold the whitening gel exactly where it needs to be.
You wear the trays for a set time each day. Most patients see significant results within two weeks. The gradual process gives you complete control. Want subtle brightening? Stop when you’re happy. Want maximum whitening? Continue the full treatment.
The at-home system works great for sensitive teeth. Lower concentrations of whitening agent mean less sensitivity. You can pause treatment if needed. Then resume when you’re ready. The whole process is under your direct control, and many people appreciate that freedom.
Addressing Your Concerns Head-On
“Will It Hurt?”
Tooth sensitivity is the biggest fear we hear. Here’s the truth: some patients experience mild sensitivity. It typically lasts a few days at most.
Opalescence® formulas include desensitizing agents. These minimize discomfort during and after treatment.
We can also adjust the treatment for sensitive teeth; so, if your teeth are sensitive, just let us know! Most patients report little to no pain.
If you do experience sensitivity, simple steps help. Use sensitive-teeth toothpaste. Avoid extremely hot or cold foods temporarily. The discomfort passes quickly, but your brighter smile lasts.
“Is It Safe for My Teeth?”
Professional teeth whitening is completely safe when done correctly. The American Dental Association approves properly administered teeth whitening. Opalescence® has decades of clinical research supporting its safety.
The key word is “professional.” Over-the-counter products can damage enamel if misused. Internet whitening hacks can cause serious harm. Professional treatment protects your teeth while delivering results.
Our dentists evaluate your teeth before treatment. We check for cavities, gum disease, or other issues. We ensure whitening is safe for your specific situation. This personalized approach prevents problems.
“How Long Will Results Last?”
Professional whitening results typically last one to three years. Several factors affect longevity. Your diet plays a major role. Smoking significantly shortens results. Good oral hygiene extends them.
We provide maintenance guidance after treatment. Simple changes make a big difference. Drinking coffee through a straw. Rinsing after eating staining foods. Regular professional cleanings.
Many patients do annual touch-ups with at-home trays. This maintains their bright smile year-round. The initial investment in custom trays makes maintenance affordable and easy.
“What About Cost?”
Professional whitening costs more than drugstore strips. But consider the value. Opalescence Boost® delivers in one hour what strips might achieve in months. If they work at all.
Custom trays last for years. You only pay once for trays that you can reuse. Compare that to buying strips repeatedly with questionable results.
Many dental insurance plans offer cosmetic treatment benefits. We also provide flexible payment options. Our team helps you understand costs upfront. No surprises.
Think about what a confident smile will mean in your day-to-day life. That job you’ll get because you smiled freely. The relationships you’ll build without hesitation. The photos you’ll treasure instead of hiding.
Professional whitening is definitely an investment in yourself.
Why Modern Dental Associates?
Western Pennsylvania has many dental practices. Why choose Modern Dental Associates for whitening?
First, experience matters. We’ve performed hundreds of Opalescence® treatments. We know how to customize treatment for optimal results. Dark coffee stains? Medication discoloration? Age-related yellowing? We’ve successfully treated them all.
Our technology sets us apart. Digital scanning ensures perfect custom trays. Our modern facility provides comfort during chairside treatments.
But technology isn’t everything. Our team makes the difference. Our wonderful staff treats you like family, and that helps you relax.
We’re also part of your community. We understand Pittsburgh life. The coffee culture. The food scene. The professional expectations. We tailor our treatments to fit your lifestyle.
Beyond Whitening: Complete Smile Care
Teeth whitening often starts a smile transformation journey. Patients love their whiter teeth so much, they want to address other concerns. Maybe straightening with Invisalign®. Perhaps replacing old fillings.
That’s why choosing a full-service practice matters. We offer comprehensive cosmetic dentistry. One trusted team for all your smile goals. Consistent care from professionals who know your history.
Take the First Step
Don’t wait for another special event to wish you had whiter teeth. Don’t spend another year hiding your smile. Professional whitening is safer, faster, and more effective than ever.
Call Modern Dental Associates today at 724-836-3368 to schedule your whitening consultation. Or request an appointment online.
During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your teeth and discuss your goals. We’ll explain both Opalescence® options in detail. We’ll create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and budget.
Your brighter, more confident smile is just one appointment away. Join the thousands of area residents who’ve transformed their smiles with professional whitening.
Because everyone deserves to smile without hesitation. And at Modern Dental Associates, we’re here to make that happen.
