A sparkling occasion and a radiant smile: the truth about teeth whitening
                     A sparkling occasion and a 
radiant smile: the truth about 
teeth whitening
 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.
 The science behind a brighter smile
 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.
 Professional whitening vs. at-home options
 When helping my daughter prepare, we discussed the same options I present to patients 
every day: in-office whitening and custom take-home trays.
• In-office whitening delivers faster results in a single appointment using carefully controlled, 
higher-concentration gels.
• Custom take-home trays, made to fit your unique smile, use lower concentrations and 
provide gradual, long-lasting brightness when used over one to two weeks.
 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.
 Safety and effectiveness
 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.
 How long results last & how to maintain them
 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:
• Rinse after consuming coffee, tea, or red wine
• Avoid smoking or vaping
• Use non-abrasive whitening toothpaste
• Maintain consistent dental visits for cleaning and touch-ups
 Healthy enamel reflects light better, and routine professional care keeps your smile naturally 
luminous.
 Whitening for life’s big moments and everyday confidence
 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.
 Final thoughts
 If you are considering whitening:
• Consult with your dentist to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy.
• Choose a professionally supervised method; safer, faster, and more effective than over-the-
counter options.
• Keep your results bright with regular hygiene visits and healthy daily habits.
• In addition, remember whitening is not just for big occasions; it is for anyone who wants to 
feel confident in their smile every day.
 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
 References
1. American Dental Association – Whitening
2. NIH – Review of Peroxide-Based Whitening Safety
3. MDPI – Comparative Study on Whitening Methods
4. Operative Dentistry – Longevity of Whitening Results