By Dr. John F. Como, DDS, MAGD, FICOI
Program Director, NYU College of Dentistry Continuing Dental Education Implant Program
Como Dental Design | New Rochelle, NY – Serving Southern Westchester County
(Photo: Dr. Como and his daughter Alexandra on her wedding day — celebrating two smiles that shine equally bright.)
This past October, my daughter’s wedding reminded me in the most personal way just how powerful a confident smile can be.
As both her father and her dentist, I had the special privilege of preparing her and the rest of our family for the big day. Between the joyful planning, the final dress fitting, and the hundreds of details that make weddings so memorable, we made one more important decision together: to brighten our smiles.
It was not just about looking our best for the photographs; it was about feeling our best; happy, healthy, and confident. That day reaffirmed something I have seen time and again at Como Dental Design in New Rochelle, where I provide care for patients from across Southern Westchester, including many who travel from Larchmont and surrounding towns. Teeth whitening is not just cosmetic; it is a simple, safe enhancement that helps people radiate the joy they already feel inside.
As a practicing dentist, I am often asked what teeth whitening really does and whether it is safe. The process uses peroxide-based bleaching agents, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to break down stains both on and beneath the enamel surface.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), these compounds are safe and effective when used under professional supervision and proper concentrations. Whitening agents gently oxidize stain molecules, leaving the tooth structure unchanged while producing a noticeably brighter appearance.
Reference: American Dental Association – Teeth Whitening
Over-the-counter whitening strips or online products often use lower concentrations and cannot be customized to individual needs. Professionally supervised whitening ensures that enamel thickness, sensitivity, and prior dental work are all considered keeping both safety and results in balance.
When helping my daughter prepare, we discussed the same options I present to patients every day: in-office whitening and custom take-home trays.
A 2021 study published in the Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry found that both approaches produce excellent results when professionally monitored, with take-home systems offering slightly less tooth sensitivity and strong long-term satisfaction.
Reference: MDPI – Comparative Study on Whitening Methods
For my daughter, we chose a combination approach an in-office session for instant radiance, followed by take-home trays for maintenance through the honeymoon and beyond.
For patients at Como Dental Design in New Rochelle, a personalized whitening plan ensures safe, natural-looking results that fit your timeline and comfort.
When performed properly, professional whitening is both safe and effective. Numerous studies have confirmed that peroxide-based whitening causes no long-term damage to enamel or tooth structure when used under dental supervision.
Reference: NIH – Review of Whitening Safety
Possible short-term effects such as mild sensitivity or temporary gum irritation are manageable and typically subside within a few days. During each whitening case, I protect soft tissues, monitor enamel health, and apply desensitizing treatments when needed.
However, whitening is not suitable for everyone. Before starting, it is essential to confirm that your teeth and gums are healthy. During routine dental checkups, I evaluate for any areas of wear, exposed roots, or untreated decay before recommending whitening. That foundation of health ensures optimal and safe results.
Whitening results can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on diet, habits, and oral hygiene. A 2022 study published in Operative Dentistry showed that patients who combined professional whitening with periodic at-home touch-ups maintained up to 80 percent of their brightness a year later.
Reference: Operative Dentistry – Whitening Longevity Study
To extend results:
Healthy enamel reflects light better, and routine professional care keeps your smile naturally luminous.
Seeing my daughter’s smile light up her October wedding day was a reminder that our work as dentists touches far more than teeth. Whether for a wedding, reunion, graduation, or simply a renewed sense of confidence, teeth whitening can make a meaningful difference in how you present yourself to the world.
Over the years, I have guided many patients preparing for their own special occasions. Each time, I am reminded that whitening is about more than appearance, it is about helping people feel proud of their smiles. When you look in the mirror and see a healthy, radiant smile, it changes how you carry yourself.
As both a father and a clinician, that day will always stay with me, a beautiful reflection of why I believe in personalized, evidence-based care that brings out the best in every patient’s smile.
If you are considering whitening:
Whether it is a family wedding, an important milestone, or simply a new season of life, a radiant smile reflects more than beauty it reflects joy, health, and confidence.
Dr. John F. Como, DDS, MAGD, FICOI
Program Director, NYU College of Dentistry Continuing Dental Education Implant Program
Como Dental Design | New Rochelle, NY – Serving Southern Westchester County
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