CarolinasDentist Blog

Can I Whiten My Teeth If I Have a Cavity?

Closeup of a dentist evaluating the health of a patient's teeth and gums before teeth whitening

Before moving forward with professional teeth whitening, we’ll examine your smile to make sure it is healthy. You may wonder if cosmetic dentistry is still an option if you end up having tooth decay. Don’t worry–you can still get your smile whitened, we’ll just need to take care of the cavity first!

Acid-producing bacteria can erode your enamel, causing holes called cavities. If untreated, the hole will get bigger and bigger. Tooth decay can cause sensitivity, severe toothaches, gum disease, infections, and tooth loss. We usually treat cavities with a tooth-colored filling. But if the cavity is large or is accompanied by infection, we may need to restore your tooth with root canal therapy and a dental crown.

Teeth Whitening with a Cavity

Trying to whiten a tooth with a cavity will cause unnecessary pain because the bleaching chemicals can induce mild tooth sensitivity. Because cavities already increase sensitivity, getting your teeth whitened with untreated decay can hurt your tooth and gums. Cavities can also negatively affect the results of whitening treatment.

Professional Teeth Whitening Options

CarolinasDentist can whiten your teeth once we’ve treated any cavities you have! We offer both in-office ZOOM! whitening and at-home whitening kits. Our in-office session lasts about 90 minutes. Our team uses extra-strength bleaching gel and a special lamp that lightens your teeth up to 8 shades. Or you can get a whiter, brighter smile at home in 10-14 days with a custom bleaching tray and our detailed instructions.

Improve Your Smile at CarolinasDentist!

CarolinasDentist offers preventive care, pediatric dentistry, emergency care, sedation dentistry, restorative treatments, and cosmetic dentistry. If you want to get your teeth whitened, we’ll first assess your oral health for any problems, like cavities, and recommend treatment to get those resolved. If you’d like to schedule a whitening consultation, please contact one of our locations!

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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