How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Up close photo of the before/after teeth whitening

Imagine stepping into a room where every smile radiates confidence and joy. Your own smile, however, tells a different story — one of coffee breaks and the gradual effects of time. At Atlas Dental Specialists, we understand the longing for a brighter, more vibrant smile. With advanced teeth whitening solutions, we offer a way to turn back the clock, lift stains, and restore brilliance. Let us help you feel proud of your smile again, creating moments where your teeth sparkle as much as your personality.

For over 35 years, our cosmetic dentists have been helping patients in Pittsburgh rediscover their confidence with advanced dental care, including professional teeth whitening. Using cutting-edge techniques and technology, we offer tailored whitening solutions designed to brighten your smile safely and effectively. Whether preparing for a special occasion or simply wanting to enhance your everyday glow, we’re here to help you achieve the results you’ll love. Trust us to bring out the brilliance in your smile.

How Teeth Whitening Works

In cosmetic teeth whitening, chemicals break down stains on a patient’s teeth. Generally, the chemical used to do the brightening is hydrogen peroxide, an oxidizing agent that eventually breaks down into water and oxygen after being applied to the teeth. When the oxygen forms, it can penetrate the teeth’s enamel and layers of dentin, breaking down the stain molecules.

Oxygen helps to speed up the process of breaking down those stains, making them too small to see with the naked eye. Teeth whitening solutions sold at the dentist’s office are generally more effective than those sold over the counter, as professional strength solutions are given under the supervision of a dental professional. 

When you receive a teeth whitening solution at Atlas Dental Specialists, you can rest assured you’re receiving a system tailored to your needs. Please contact our team if you’re interested in getting your teeth whitened safely and effectively, as our providers can ensure you only receive treatment that has been safely calculated and provided by your dental practitioner.

What Causes Teeth Discoloration?

Discolorations can be caused by staining, aging, or chemical damage to teeth. Common culprits for tooth discolorations include coffee, tea, wine, dark berries, and foods with added dyes. 

Luckily, dental bleaching can be used to correct tooth discoloration. 

Using the latest in bleaching technology, we can offer a safe method for creating a beautiful “brilliant” smile. In cases of extreme tooth discoloration, crowns or veneers may be the only choice, but because of the low cost of bleaching treatments, bleaching is nearly always worth a solid try.

What Are the Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening?

Professional teeth whitening is safe, quick, and inexpensive. You can lighten only your upper teeth or both the upper and lower, depending on how much you show when you talk and smile.

In only a day or two, your custom bleach trays will be ready for you to pick up. We provide you with a special bleaching agent that you put into the clear trays. With only a few hours of wear per day, our special bleaching agent bubbles stains right out of your enamel in a very short time without altering tooth structure or existing dental work in any way. 

When your teeth reach the desired brightness, only occasional treatment is needed to maintain your new smile. We’ll want to take “after” photos at your next appointment. Please contact our team at Atlas Dental Specialists if you want more information about teeth whitening and its myriad benefits. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you achieve your most beautiful and bright smile.

How to Care for Your Newly Brightened Teeth

After your teeth whitening, taking good care of your fresh new smile is essential. The following are some of our top recommendations that will help you maintain your beautiful teeth:

  • Avoid smoking
  • Use straws for any drinks that may cause staining
  • Switch to a soft-bristle toothbrush
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Brush your teeth after every meal
  • Do not consume acidic foods
  • Ask your dentist about sensitivity products
  • Consider using a whitening or sensitive toothpaste

For more tips on teeth care, please contact Atlas Dental Specialists. We’re happy to answer your questions, provide helpful resources, and guide you during your smile journey.

Why Choose Atlas Dental Specialists for Teeth Whitening?

At Atlas Dental Specialists, we bring over 35 years of experience to every teeth whitening consultation and treatment, combining personalized care with the latest dental technology. Our professional whitening solutions are designed to be safe, effective, and tailored to your needs, ensuring a brighter, more confident smile without compromising oral health. Whether you’re brightening your teeth for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a confidence boost, our dedicated team is here to help every step of the way.

Call our Downtown Pittsburgh or Shadyside location today, or visit our contact form to schedule your teeth whitening consultation. Take the first step toward your most radiant smile.

Upcoming Cosmetic Dentistry Trends in 2025: What Will Make the Difference in Your Smile

Imagine entering a room and feeling every eye drawn to your confident, radiant smile. The power of a beautiful smile goes beyond aesthetics — it can transform how you feel about yourself and how others perceive you. At Atlas Dental Specialists, we know your smile is a key part of your story. As we look ahead to 2025, cosmetic dentistry is evolving rapidly, bringing innovative treatments and technologies that will make achieving the perfect smile easier, faster, and more customized than ever before.

Whether you’re looking for subtle improvements or a complete smile makeover, we’re here to guide you and help your smile shine brighter. From 3D imaging to minimally invasive treatments and procedures, new technologies are revolutionizing how we approach smile enhancement. At Atlas Dental Specialists, we stay on top of these trends to provide cutting-edge treatments that meet and exceed your expectations. 

The Trends and Growth Cosmetic Dentistry Can Expect to See in 2025

As technology has advanced rapidly, we can expect improvements and positive changes in cosmetic dentistry. It’s exciting to consider how the industry may grow for practitioners and patients alike, especially due to the speed of technology innovation.

3D Printing Will Improve Dental Implements and Appliances

3D printing is getting faster, so we can expect even faster production times and the use of a wider variety of materials, resulting in high-quality, durable dental implements. While 3D printing is already used for temporary solutions, advancements in the next few years could lead to long-lasting prosthetics, crowns, and more.

While many dental providers have 3D printers in their offices to reduce patient wait time, we expect to see the processes improve. With this technology, we can create customized dental appliances tailored to each patient’s needs, helping improve comfort and function. We may find that there are more durable solutions, and we can supplement even more of our care with this technology.

More Focus on Overall Health

As patients become more health-conscious, cosmetic dentistry will focus on improving both the appearance of smiles and their overall impact on health and wellness. While dentistry primarily focuses on maintaining health in a patient’s oral cavity, society is becoming more aware that oral hygiene and care also impact the rest of the body.

In 2025, expect an increased focus on how oral care affects other aspects of health, from heart disease to diabetes. We expect that dentists will find better ways to explain these consequences to their patients, as well as provide clearer and more actionable guidance to take care of their health.

Investing in Newer Technologies

For dental providers who want to stay ahead of the curve, we expect that more dentists than ever will be investing in better and newer technologies. From digital impressions and laser treatments to AI-driven smile design, integrating high-tech solutions will help enhance the precision and effectiveness of cosmetic treatments.

Newer technologies and higher standards of care generally become the norm over time, and patients may be more hesitant to work with a dental provider with more traditional, less effective tools and resources. Patients will be increasingly drawn to practices that stay up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques.

Further Education and Training for Dentists

Dentists should consider furthering their education and training during the year, as this will help them show their quality and dedication to their patients. This will include specialized training in new cosmetic techniques and tools, as well as mastering the art of personalized smile design.

Patients may be more likely to choose dental practitioners invested in staying up-to-date and following best practices. This ensures their practices and treatments are safe and effective, even years after earning a degree or leaving dental school.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

Patient and dentist lives are full enough, so it’s no surprise that minimally invasive procedures have increased in popularity. These techniques allow for cosmetic enhancements with less discomfort, shorter recovery times, and reduced risks. Expect more treatments like laser gum contouring, less invasive veneers, and Botox procedures to be performed precisely and easily.

These techniques also help dentists cut down on active treatment or surgical time. Minimally invasive procedures in cosmetic dentistry will also help patients effectively maintain their overall bodily health.

Receive State-of-the-Art and Up-to-Date Care With Atlas Dental Specialists

Interested in transforming your smile with cosmetic dentistry? At Atlas Dental Specialists, we’re staying ahead of the curve to bring you the cutting-edge treatments of tomorrow, today. You can get a gorgeous smile, whether you’re interested in advanced 3D printing, minimally invasive procedures, or exploring personalized smile design.

Don’t wait — start your smile transformation today! Contact us at Atlas Dental Specialists to schedule your consultation and discover how our excellent practices make a significant difference in your health! You can schedule an appointment with us when you complete our contact form or call (412) 281-9411.

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants? Factors to Consider Before Your Consultation

After losing a tooth, you might find yourself avoiding certain foods or hiding your smile in photos. Dental implants can be a game-changer for those looking to regain their confidence and improve their oral health. However, not everyone is automatically a candidate for this procedure. Factors such as bone density, overall health, and personal habits play a significant role in determining if dental implants are right for you.

At Atlas Dental Specialists, we have helped many patients restore their smiles with dental implants. As prosthodontists with advanced training in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, our team is uniquely equipped to handle even the most complex dental cases. We offer comprehensive care under one roof, so there’s no need for referrals or multiple trips to different offices.

Factors That Determine Your Eligibility for Dental Implants

Dental implants can feel like the ideal solution, but it’s natural to have questions about whether you’re a good candidate. A few factors that will help determine if you are a good candidate for implants include:

Oral Health and Bone Structure

One of the most important factors in determining if dental implants are right for you is the health of your mouth, particularly your jawbone. Implants need a stable foundation to anchor securely, which is why having enough bone density and a healthy jaw is essential. If your jawbone has deteriorated due to tooth loss, gum disease, or other factors, it might not be strong enough to support an implant right away.

With that being said, the current state of your oral health and bone structure does not necessarily mean implants are off the table. Procedures like bone grafting or ridge augmentation can rebuild the necessary support, giving you the option for implants later on.

Overall Health and Medical Conditions

Your overall health also plays a significant role in the success of dental implants. Chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders can impact your body’s ability to heal after implant surgery. If you’re a smoker, that can also be a concern, as smoking can affect the healing process and the long-term success of implants.

Smoking

Tobacco use can significantly impact the success rate of dental implants. Smoking restricts blood flow and can hinder healing, making it harder for the implant to integrate with the bone. Quitting smoking or reducing your tobacco use before and after the procedure can protect your health and your investment.

Grinding and Clenching

If you grind or clench your teeth, you may need to consider this habit when exploring implants. Excessive force from grinding can put stress on the implant and may lead to complications. Your dentist will assess your bite and any signs of grinding to create a plan that protects your new implants. Solutions like night guards can help preserve your dental work and ensure you get the most out of your treatment.

Financial Considerations and Insurance

Dental implants are a long-term investment, and while they may initially cost more than other options like dentures or bridges, they often provide better stability and durability over time. Upfront costs can be a concern, which is why we offer a range of financing options at Atlas Dental Specialists, including payment plans and a membership club designed to make treatment more accessible. We also participate with many insurance companies, including MetLife, Cigna, Principal, Ameritas, and United Healthcare.

Your Age

Age is often a concern for many people considering dental implants, but the good news is there’s no upper age limit for this procedure. As long as your overall health and bone structure are adequate, seniors can absolutely benefit from implants. In fact, many older adults find that implants improve their quality of life by making it easier to eat, speak, and smile confidently again.

For younger individuals who have lost a tooth due to trauma or decay, implants can be a fantastic solution. However, we do recommend that jaw growth is complete before moving forward with implant placement. If you’re a younger patient or a parent considering implants for a child or teenager, we can evaluate the development of the jaw and discuss options to ensure the timing is right.

Scheduling a Consultation to See if You’re a Good Candidate for Dental Implants Today

If you are considering dental implants, the first step is scheduling a consultation to discuss your goals and concerns. At Atlas Dental Specialists, we offer comprehensive evaluations to determine if implants are right for you and to design a personalized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and budget. We will take the time to answer your questions, explore your options, and make sure you are confident in your decision.

If you are ready to take the next step toward restoring your smile, call us at (412) 281-9411 or complete our contact form to schedule your consultation. We are here to help you make an informed choice about your dental health and get you one step closer to the smile you deserve.

The Process of Getting Dental Implants: Step-by-Step Guide for Patients

Gaps in your smile can make everyday activities like chewing or speaking feel awkward, and they might even lead to discomfort or pain over time. Beyond that, missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift, leading to bite issues or further complications. You may find yourself avoiding certain foods, smiling less, or feeling self-conscious in social settings.

At Atlas Dental Specialists, we strive to make the dental implant process as smooth and comfortable as possible. As prosthodontists, we’ve received extensive training in restorative and cosmetic procedures, making us uniquely equipped to handle dental implant cases of any complexity. With same-day dentistry options, we also aim to minimize your visits and streamline the process so you can enjoy your new smile sooner.

What to Expect When Getting Dental Implants

If you’re considering dental implants to restore your smile, you might wonder what the process entails. Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for missing teeth, but understanding the steps involved can help ease any concerns you may have.

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Assessment

The first step in getting dental implants is a thorough consultation. During this visit, your oral health, goals, and concerns will all be evaluated. This might involve taking digital scans and X-rays to understand the structure of your jawbone and determine if it’s strong enough to support implants. Your jawbone must have sufficient density because the implant needs a stable base to anchor to, much like how a tree needs solid ground to grow.

Step 2: Treatment Planning

Once all the necessary information has been gathered, a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs will be created. Every smile is different, and so is every implant procedure. Whether you need a single implant, multiple implants, or a full-mouth restoration, a plan will be proposed that fits your lifestyle and budget. They will go over the entire process, from preparing the site to placing the implant and attaching the final crown, so you know what to expect at each step.

Step 3: Placing the Implant

Using local anesthesia and advanced surgical techniques, the implant — a small titanium post — will be placed into your jawbone. The implant acts as a new root for your tooth, providing a stable base for the final restoration. Over the next few months, the implant will naturally fuse with your bone in a process called osseointegration, which is crucial for the stability and success of the implant.

Step 4: Healing and Temporary Restoration

During the healing period, the implant will integrate fully with your jawbone, creating a solid foundation for the new tooth. During this time, you may be provided with a temporary restoration to maintain the appearance and function of your smile while the implant settles. The healing process typically takes a few months, and your progress will be monitored through follow-up visits, ensuring everything heals as it should and addressing any concerns along the way.

Step 5: Attaching the Abutment

Once the implant has integrated with your jawbone, the next step is attaching an abutment — a small connector piece that secures the final crown to the implant. This is a minor procedure that doesn’t take long, and it serves as the bridge between the implant and your new tooth.

With the abutment in place, a digital impression will be taken to create a custom crown that matches the shape and color of your natural teeth.

Step 6: Final Crown Placement

After the abutment is attached and impressions are taken, the final crown is fabricated using a high-tech CAD/CAM system. At Atlas Dental Specialists, we have the ability to create these crowns on-site, often in the same day, so you can leave our office with a complete smile restoration in one visit. The crown is carefully attached to the abutment, providing a functional and aesthetic solution that blends perfectly with your other teeth. This moment is often a turning point for patients — seeing the final result and enjoying the ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently again can be incredibly rewarding.

Step 7: Follow-Up Care and Maintenance

Dental implants are designed to be a long-lasting solution, but proper care is essential for their success. Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your implant and ensure everything stays healthy. Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting us for regular check-ups will help keep your new smile looking its best for years to come.

Choose Atlas Dental Specialists for Your Dental Implants

When it comes to dental implants, having the right team matters. At Atlas Dental Specialists, our prosthodontists have the advanced training needed for even the most complex cases, ensuring you receive high-quality, personalized care. We offer comprehensive solutions, state-of-the-art technology, and flexible payment options — all designed to make your implant experience as convenient and comfortable as possible.

Whether you’re ready to take the next step or simply want to learn more, give us a call at (412) 281-9411 or fill out our contact form. Let’s work together to restore your smile and boost your confidence.

How Invisalign Can Improve Your Smile Without the Hassle of Traditional Braces

Maybe you’ve always felt self-conscious about crooked or misaligned teeth, but the thought of metal braces brings back memories of awkward teenage years, uncomfortable wires, and long, frequent visits to the orthodontist. You might be a working professional who doesn’t want to show up at the office with a mouth full of metal or a busy parent who can’t afford the time to manage the upkeep. Whatever your reason, you know you want a better smile, but you’re not sure how to get there without dealing with the inconveniences and discomforts that come with traditional braces.

A confident smile is important, and at Atlas Dental Specialists, we are here to help you achieve it without the hassle of traditional braces. As prosthodontists with advanced training, we offer Invisalign, a modern, discreet alternative designed to straighten your teeth comfortably and effectively. With over 25 years of experience serving the Pittsburgh community, we have helped many patients just like you transform their smiles using clear aligners.

The Benefits of Invisalign Over Traditional Braces

When it comes to straightening teeth, the thought of having to endure traditional braces with their metal wires and brackets, discomfort, and dietary restrictions can be off-putting. Fortunately, there’s a modern alternative that is changing the game: Invisalign. This innovative solution not only transforms smiles but does so with minimal hassle, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods and maintain your lifestyle while achieving the smile of your dreams.

Discreet and Comfortable

Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners that are nearly invisible when worn. This makes them a great option if you want a subtle solution that won’t disrupt your daily life or draw unwanted attention. You can smile, speak, and interact without feeling self-conscious. The smooth plastic of the aligners is also more comfortable than metal brackets and wires, reducing the risk of irritation or sores in your mouth.

Convenient and Flexible

One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign is the flexibility it offers. The aligners are removable, meaning you can take them out when eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth. This not only allows you to enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions but also makes it easier to maintain proper oral hygiene. Unlike braces, which can be a hassle to clean, you can simply brush and floss as you normally would.

Shorter Treatment Time

While the treatment time for Invisalign varies depending on the complexity of your case, many patients see results in as little as 6 to 18 months, which is often quicker than the timeline for traditional braces. Plus, with fewer check-up appointments required, you can fit your orthodontic visits more easily into your busy schedule.

Transform Your Smile with Invisalign —
Start Today for Just $238/Month
Get straight teeth without metal braces! Dr. Mara Mangini, an Invisalign Preferred Provider, includes all aligners, regular check-ups, and final retainers in your complete treatment.

How Invisalign Works

The Invisalign process starts with a consultation and a 3D scan of your teeth. This advanced technology is used to map out a custom treatment plan, showing you a digital preview of how your smile will change over time.

Custom Aligners

Once your treatment plan is set, a series of custom aligners will be created specifically for your teeth. Each set of aligners gradually shifts your teeth into place, and you will switch to a new set every 1-2 weeks. The aligners fit snugly and comfortably, and because they are clear, they remain practically invisible, allowing you to go about your day without feeling self-conscious.

Monitoring and Adjustments

Throughout your treatment, you will attend check-ups to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. These appointments are less frequent and shorter than those required for braces, saving you time and reducing the disruption to your routine.

Take the First Step Toward Your New Smile

At Atlas Dental Specialists, we believe financial concerns shouldn’t hold you back from achieving a smile you love. That’s why we offer a variety of financing options, including payment plans and a membership club designed to make orthodontic care more accessible. We also participate with many insurance companies, including MetLife, Cigna, Principal, Ameritas, and United Healthcare.

If you are ready to explore how Invisalign can improve your smile without the hassle of traditional braces, the Atlas Dental Specialists team is here to help. We provide comprehensive care under one roof, using state-of-the-art technology to ensure your experience is comfortable, efficient, and tailored to your needs. Contact us today at (412) 281-9411 or complete our contact form to schedule your consultation. Your new smile could be just a phone call away.

6 Common Cosmetic Dental Procedures and How They Can Transform Your Smile

It’s easy to feel self-conscious about your smile when your teeth don’t look the way you want them to. For some, concerns about stains or chipped teeth may seem minor, but these dental issues can have a big impact on how you see yourself and how others see you. If you’ve ever caught yourself holding back your smile, cosmetic dentistry can help transform those feelings of insecurity into confidence.

At Atlas Dental Specialists, we understand how a healthy, attractive smile can affect your overall well-being. With over 35 years serving the Pittsburgh community, we offer a comprehensive range of cosmetic dental procedures, from teeth whitening and veneers to dental implants and Invisalign. Our skilled team, led by Drs. Nicholas and Mara Mangini, is dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to your needs. 

Cosmetic Dental Procedures and Their Benefits

A beautiful smile can light up a room and boost your confidence, but not everyone is naturally blessed with perfect teeth. Here are some of the most common cosmetic dental procedures and how they can help transform your smile:

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures because it can dramatically improve your smile in a short amount of time. This procedure involves the use of bleaching agents to lighten the shade of your teeth, removing stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, smoking, and certain foods.

Benefits of teeth whitening include:

  • Quick Results: Noticeably whiter teeth in as little as one visit.
  • Non-Invasive: A simple and painless procedure with no downtime.
  • Affordable: Compared to other cosmetic treatments, teeth whitening is relatively inexpensive.

In-office whitening is performed by your dentist and typically yields fast, noticeable results. Often, professional teeth whitening can lighten your teeth by several shades in just a single visit.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surface of your teeth to improve their appearance. They are often made from porcelain or composite resin and can be used to address a variety of cosmetic issues, such as discolored, chipped, or slightly misaligned teeth.

Types of veneers include:

  • Porcelain Veneers: Known for their durability and natural appearance, porcelain veneers are stain-resistant and can last up to 15 years with proper care.
  • Composite Veneers: Made from composite resin, these veneers are more affordable than porcelain but may not last as long and are more prone to staining.

Dental veneers can correct multiple issues, such as shape, size, and color of teeth. A new smile can be achieved in just a few visits, and with proper care, veneers can last many years.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. It is an excellent option for those who want to correct misalignment without the look and feel of traditional metal braces.

Invisalign involves a series of custom-made aligners that are worn over your teeth. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks, and as you progress through the series, your teeth gradually move into their desired position.

The clear aligners are barely noticeable, making it a discreet option for adults and teens. You can remove the aligners to eat, drink, brush, and floss, making it easier to maintain oral hygiene. The aligners are also made from smooth plastic, which reduces the risk of irritation.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a procedure where a tooth-colored resin is applied to the tooth, then shaped and hardened with a special light. It is ideal for repairing minor imperfections like chips, cracks, or gaps between teeth.

Bonding can restore the shape and strength of a damaged tooth, cover discoloration that doesn’t respond to whitening treatments, as well as close small gaps between teeth.

The procedure typically takes less than an hour per tooth and is one of the most cost-effective cosmetic treatments available. Unlike veneers, bonding is also less invasive and can be adjusted or removed if needed.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Once the implant integrates with the bone, a crown is attached, creating a natural-looking, fully functional replacement tooth.

Types of dental implants include:

  • Single Tooth Implants: Ideal for replacing one missing tooth.
  • Implant-Supported Bridges: Can replace multiple missing teeth without the need for individual implants for each tooth.
  • Implant-Retained Dentures: Provide stability and comfort for denture wearers.

Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that often accompanies missing teeth, and can last a lifetime with proper care.

Gum Contouring

Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping or gum lift, is a procedure that reshapes the gum line to create a more balanced and symmetrical smile. It is often used to correct a “gummy smile” where too much gum tissue shows or to even out an uneven gum line.

This procedure creates a more proportionate smile, has minimal downtime with instant results, and enhances the overall appearance of your smile.

How Atlas Dental Specialists Can Transform Your Smile

At Atlas Dental Specialists, we offer a wide range of cosmetic dental procedures to help you achieve a confident, radiant smile. Whether you’re interested in brightening your teeth with whitening, straightening them with Invisalign, or enhancing your smile with veneers or implants, we have the tools and expertise to deliver exceptional results. With over 35 years of experience serving the Pittsburgh community, our team is dedicated to helping you feel great about your smile through personalized care.

Ready to take the first step toward the smile you’ve always wanted? Contact us today at (412) 281-9411 or visit our contact form to schedule your consultation.