Teeth Whitening

Enhance Your Smile with Professional Tooth Whitening

You can enhance the beauty of your smile with tooth whitening (or bleaching), a simple, non-invasive dental treatment that changes the color of natural tooth enamel.

Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern for most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth. The most popular method is to use a home tooth-whitening system, which will dramatically whiten teeth. Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate the replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. We will replace any restorations after bleaching to ensure they match the newly bleached teeth.

Tooth whitening is not permanent. You may need a touch-up every several years, and more frequently if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.

What does tooth whitening involve?

This type of tooth whitening usually requires two visits. At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic, trays.

At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary. The trays are worn with special whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening. It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

Reasons for Tooth Whitening:

You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.

Why Choose Key Largo Smiles

At Key Largo Smiles, we believe exceptional dentistry is built on trust, compassion, and personalized care.

From preventive checkups to advanced restorative and cosmetic treatments, our team is dedicated to creating an experience that feels comfortable, transparent, and tailored to you. Dr. Santos and our skilled dental professionals combine years of clinical expertise with the latest dental technology to ensure every visit delivers lasting results and a healthy, confident smile.

We take time to understand your goals, explain every step of your treatment, and design a care plan that fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re visiting for a routine cleaning or a complete smile transformation, you can expect gentle care, honest guidance, and a supportive environment that puts your comfort first.

At Key Largo Smiles, your oral health isn’t just our priority—it’s our passion.

Reasons for composite fillings:

How are composite fillings placed?

Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment. While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay as necessary. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.

It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.
You will be given care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.

Fluoride Treatments

Professional fluoride treatments strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugars. These quick, painless treatments provide an extra layer of protection against cavities and can even help reverse early signs of decay. Particularly beneficial for children and adults with certain risk factors, fluoride treatments are a powerful preventive tool.

Periodontal Care

Healthy gums are essential to overall oral health. Our comprehensive periodontal care includes thorough assessment of gum tissues, measurement of gum pockets, and targeted cleaning procedures when necessary. We help patients prevent, manage, and treat gum disease to maintain both their oral health and overall wellbeing.

Oral Cancer Screenings

Early detection is crucial for successful treatment of oral cancer. As part of every comprehensive exam, Dr. Santos performs a thorough screening for signs of oral cancer and precancerous conditions. This quick, painless screening could literally save your life, as oral cancers detected in early stages have a significantly higher survival rate.

Night Guards & Sport Guards

Protect your teeth from grinding, clenching, and sports-related injuries with our custom-fitted mouth guards. Unlike one-size-fits-all options, our guards are precisely designed for your unique dental anatomy, providing optimal protection and comfort. These preventive appliances can save you from fractured teeth, worn enamel, jaw pain, and other damage.

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Common Questions About Composite Fillings

How often should I have dental cleanings?

Most patients benefit from professional cleanings every six months. However, if you have certain risk factors or conditions like gum disease, diabetes, or a history of frequent cavities, Dr. Santos may recommend more frequent visits. Each patient’s cleaning schedule is personalized based on their unique oral health needs.

How can I maintain good oral health between visits?

Consistent home care is essential. We recommend brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, using an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended, and maintaining a healthy diet low in sugary foods and drinks. We provide personalized home care instructions based on your specific needs.

Are dental X-rays safe?

Yes. At Largo Smiles Dental Center, we use digital X-ray technology that reduces radiation exposure by up to 90% compared to traditional film X-rays. We also follow the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) and only take X-rays when necessary for diagnosis and treatment planning.

At what age should children start seeing the dentist?

We recommend children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Early visits help establish comfort with dental care, monitor development, and provide parents with guidance on proper oral hygiene techniques for their child.