Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is a whitening treatment performed in a dental office, using a stronger whitening gel than most store-bought products. At Harmony Dental Care in West Covina, we offer two ways to whiten: Zoom in-office whitening and custom take-home whitening trays. Both are supervised by our dental team, so the gel is applied with care for your gums and enamel.

What is professional teeth whitening?

Professional whitening uses a hydrogen peroxide gel that is applied to the teeth and works to lift stains that build up over time. Common causes include coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco. Over-the-counter strips and gels are milder, and they are applied without a dentist checking your gums or teeth first.

At our West Covina office, the whitening gel is applied under dental supervision. Before treatment, we apply protective barriers to your gums. Dr. Khaef makes sure your gums and enamel are protected throughout the process, and Dr. Nguyen, a DMD, supervises the professional-grade whitening agents used in your session.

Our whitening options

Zoom in-office whitening

Zoom is a professional whitening system. A professional-strength hydrogen peroxide gel is applied to your teeth and activated with the Zoom LED light. The visit takes about one hour. Most patients see results of up to eight shades whiter in a single visit.

Zoom is a good fit if you have an event coming up, such as a wedding or graduation, and want a noticeable change in one appointment.

Custom take-home whitening kits

For gradual brightening on your own schedule, we make custom-fitted whitening trays from impressions of your teeth. Because the trays are made to fit your mouth, the gel stays where it is needed. You apply professional-grade whitening gel at home for 30 minutes to one hour a day, for about one to two weeks. Results build gradually, and the process can be adjusted to suit your goals.

Take-home trays are a good choice if you prefer to whiten at home, or if you want to touch up your results over time.

Who is a good candidate for teeth whitening?

Most adults with natural teeth who want a brighter smile are candidates for whitening. Whitening works best on natural tooth enamel that has taken on surface stains from foods, drinks, or tobacco. It does not change the color of crowns, veneers, fillings, or bonding, so those restorations may need to be replaced to match a whiter shade.

If you have gum disease, cavities, cracked teeth, or very sensitive teeth, your dentist will want to address those first. Your dentist will tell you whether whitening is right for you, and which option makes the most sense for your teeth.

Patients from Covina, Charter Oak, City of Industry, and the wider San Gabriel Valley visit our West Covina office for professional whitening.

What to expect at your whitening visit

Your first step is a visit with our team. We will review your teeth, your stain history, and your goals. If you are a new patient, you can start with our $59 New Patient Special, which includes a comprehensive exam, digital X-rays, and a professional cleaning for new patients without insurance. The special is for the exam, X-rays, and cleaning, not for whitening itself.

On the day of a Zoom visit, we protect your gums, apply the whitening gel, and use the LED light to activate it. The visit takes about an hour. We can also offer local anesthetic, numbing gel, warm blankets, and noise-canceling headphones if you would like to relax during your appointment.

For custom trays, the first visit includes impressions of your teeth. Once the trays are made, we will review how to place the gel, how long to wear the trays, and how to clean them. You will then whiten at home, following the schedule we give you.

How much does professional teeth whitening cost in West Covina?

The cost depends on which option you choose: in-office Zoom whitening or custom take-home trays. Because each plan of care is different, we recommend a visit so we can explain the options that fit your teeth and goals.

New patients without insurance can also ask about our $59 New Patient Special, which covers the exam, digital X-rays, and cleaning.

Does dental insurance cover teeth whitening?

Whitening is considered an elective cosmetic procedure. Dental insurance often does not cover it, but coverage depends on your specific plan, so please check your benefits.

We accept PPO, Indemnity, Medi-Cal, Denti-Cal, Smile California, CalOptima, and most major dental insurance plans. Medi-Cal, Denti-Cal, and Smile California members receive full dental care through their plans, and we handle the authorizations and claims. CalOptima dental is a direct provider arrangement, so no referral is needed.

We know insurance can be hard to follow. Before your visit, we can complete a complimentary insurance eligibility check to help you understand your benefits. Call (626) 858-3305 or ask about it when you book online.

Payment and financing options

We offer flexible financing, with monthly payment plans for elective procedures such as whitening. We also accept CareCredit, Sunbit, Alpheon, credit cards, and our in-house membership plan. Ask our team about the options that fit your budget during your visit.

Recovery and aftercare

Many patients notice some tooth sensitivity during or after whitening. This is usually temporary. We use desensitizing agents before and after whitening to help keep you comfortable. If your teeth feel sensitive afterward, follow the aftercare instructions we give you, and call our office if the discomfort does not settle.

Your dentist will also explain how to care for your results, including which foods, drinks, and habits can stain teeth again. Whitening results vary from person to person, and touch-ups may be needed over time.

Why choose Harmony Dental Care for teeth whitening?

• Dentist supervision. Dr. Nguyen, a DMD, supervises your whitening session, and Dr. Khaef helps protect your gums and enamel throughout treatment.
• Two professional options. We offer both in-office Zoom whitening and custom take-home trays, so you can choose the approach that suits your schedule.
• Materials and technology. Our office uses 3D CBCT imaging, iTero digital scanning, digital X-rays, and digital impressions. We use mercury-free materials and BPA-free resins.
• Comfort options. We use desensitizing gels, and we offer local anesthetic, numbing gel, warm blankets, and noise-canceling headphones.
• Experience. Harmony Dental has served the West Covina community for 20 years, and our practice was built on the idea of treating every patient like family.
• Convenient hours. We are open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, at 148 N Grand Ave in West Covina.

How to book your teeth whitening appointment

Harmony Dental Care welcomes new patients of all ages. To schedule your whitening consultation, call (626) 858-3305 during our office hours, Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, or book online. If you have an event coming up, tell us when you call so we can plan your timing. We are closed on Saturdays and Sundays.