Peartree Dental Care

Dr. Michael Zhou

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(410) 750-2599

General and Aesthetic Dentistry

5725 Richards Valley Rd A7
Ellicott City, MD 21043

Peartree Dental Care > Services > Teeth Whitening

Our professional whitening options can restore your bright, youthful smile.

Teeth Whitening

Your smile is one of the most personal things about you. It’s how you connect, share joy, and make lasting impressions. But if your teeth are stained or yellowed, you might find yourself hiding your teeth or feeling like it’s holding you back.

At Peartree Dental Care, we believe everyone deserves to feel proud of their smile. That’s why Dr. Michael Zhou offers professional teeth whitening options tailored to your lifestyle, from fast results with in-office treatments to convenient custom take-home kits.

Whatever your needs, we’re here to help you achieve a brighter, more confident smile!

Why Do Teeth Stain?

Life happens, and teeth naturally lose their sparkle over time. Whether it’s coffee-fueled mornings, red wine with friends, or just the passage of time, discoloration is a common issue. Teeth whitening can reverse years of stains and restore the bright, fresh look you’ve been missing.

Professional Teeth Whitening vs. Store-Bought Kits

Sure, store-bought whitening strips may seem convenient, but professional whitening offers results that over-the-counter kits simply can’t match:

Stronger Whiteners

Professional-strength whitening agents provide more dramatic results than store-bought products. We carefully formulate your treatment to brighten your teeth by several shades and protect tooth enamel and gum tissue.

Expert Supervision

We carefully monitor your treatment to ensure optimal results with minimal sensitivity. Professional oversight means you receive the safest, most appropriate whitening solution for your specific needs and dental health.

Consistent Results

Unlike store-bought kids that contain one-size-fits-all whitening trays, we custom craft your trays to fit perfectly over your teeth. This means the gel contacts all tooth surfaces evenly for the most consistently bright results.

Our Team

Meet More of Our Team

Dr. Michael Zhou

Dr. Michael Zhou grew up in Maryland and earned his undergraduate degree in history from Johns Hopkins University. He then completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree at the University of Maryland Dental School, followed by a general dentistry residency (AEGD) at the Martinsburg Veterans Affairs Medical Center in West Virginia. This advanced training provided him with comprehensive experience in treating complex dental cases and working with patients from diverse backgrounds.

A Foundation in Research and Lifelong Learning

Dr. Zhou’s dedication to lifelong learning is evident in his extensive research and ...

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In-Office Teeth Whitening Process

For immediate results, in-office whitening is ideal. The process includes:

Professional Cleaning — Remove plaque and surface stains for the best results
Protective Measures — Apply a gel to the gums to protect them during whitening.
Whitening Application — Apply professional-grade gel to tooth surfaces and let it work for 15 minutes.
Repeat Applications — Check the progress and repeat as needed for the desired results.
Final Results — You'll leave our office about an hour later with a noticeably brighter smile.

This treatment is perfect for special events or when you want a dramatic transformation in just one visit.

Custom Take-Home Whitening Kits

If you prefer to whiten at your own pace, a custom take-home kit from a dental professional is the way to go.

Custom Trays — We take impressions of your teeth to create custom whitening trays.
Whitening Gel — You’ll receive a professional-strength whitening gel to use with your trays.
At-Home Application — Wear the trays for the recommended time each day for about two weeks
Gradual Results — Stop whitening when you see the desired result.
Maintenance — Keep your trays and leftover gel for monthly touchups at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I avoid tooth sensitivity after whitening?

Tooth sensitivity is typically caused by whitening agents penetrating the enamel and reaching the dentin layer of the tooth. This process can temporarily expose the tiny tubules in the dentin connected to the nerves inside your teeth, making them more reactive to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli.

Minimizing Sensitivity during Whitening

At Peartree Dental Care, we take extra care to ensure your comfort during professional whitening treatments. Here’s how Dr. Zhou helps prevent and manage sensitivity:

Customizes treatment to your sensitivity needs
Uses protective barriers to shield gums and other sensitive areas.
Closely monitors your treatment to ensure a comfortable experience.

Here are some steps you can take to reduce sensitivity before and after whitening:

Start using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth a week or two before treatment.
Stick to lukewarm foods and drinks 24-48 hours after whitening.
Avoid overusing the gel in take-home kits or wearing trays longer than recommended.

When to Contact Peartree Dental Care

Whitening sensitivity is usually short-lived and resolves within a day or two. However, if it persists or worsens, Dr. Zhou and his team are here to help. Contact our Ellicott City, MD, dental office for advice or to discuss whitening options that better suit your needs.

How to Keep Your Smile Radiant

We want your smile to stay as bright as the day you finish your treatment. Here’s how you can keep your results longer:

Brush and floss daily to prevent new stains.
Sip coffee, tea, and red wine through a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
Schedule regular cleanings to keep your teeth polished and healthy.
Use touch-up treatments as needed to maintain your glow.

Dr. Zhou and his team will also provide personalized tips to ensure your bright smile lasts as long as possible.

Let’s Bring Back Your Brightest Smile!

Ready to stop hiding your smile? Whether you need a quick boost for a big event or a more gradual whitening solution, Dr. Zhou and his team at Peartree Dental Care have you covered. Call today to schedule your cleaning and consultation. Let us help you feel confident sharing your smile with the world!

Do Stained Teeth Make You Hide Your Smile?