Teeth Whitening

Having a beautiful smile may be even easier than you think. Many people achieve the look they've been dreaming of with our simple "bleaching" procedure.

It's safe, quick, and inexpensive. Just let us know at any appointment if you would like to begin teeth whitening. You can lighten only your upper teeth or both the upper and lower, depending on how much of each shows when you talk and smile.

In only a day or two your custom bleach splints will be ready for you to pick up. We provide you with a special bleaching agent that you put into the clear, almost invisible splints. 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 brightness you want, only occasional treatment is needed to maintain your new smile.

Dental bleaching can be used to correct many tooth discolorations. These discolorations may have been caused by staining, aging, or chemical damage to teeth. 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 and can improve the look of the teeth around those requiring more extensive treatment.

How is it done?

An impression is taken to make a specialized "mouth tray" or "stent" to hold the bleach against the teeth. The material is used each night for about 1-4 hours for a week or two, after which significant whitening will occur. In some cases, the change is nothing short of brilliant. For confidence in appearance, bleaching technology offers improvements in yellowing, aging or stained teeth. For very severely stained teeth, crowns or veneers may be more appropriate.

Considerations

Over-the-counter bleaching agents are available at drug stores and pharmacies, and can be effective in some cases. Typically the bleaching systems over the counter will be very low concentrations of bleach and may not work as effectively as you might desire. It is always good practice to have a thorough dental exam prior to using any bleaching product to ensure the health of your mouth and avoid harmful effects.

In-Office Whitening

This is sometimes referred to as Zoom!® Whitening or BriteSmile® whitening.

Teeth can be whitened in the office with higher concentrations of bleach and a special light. This treatment speeds up the bleaching process and decreases the time needed to wear the trays at home.

Our experience shows the longest lasting results come with adding a few nights of the home tray treatment after the initial in office bleaching process even for just 15 to 30 minutes. You are also provided with the trays that can be used for years to come for small touch ups.

Some patients experience more sensitivity with the in office system so be sure to discuss any history of tooth sensitivity with us so we might enhance your comfort.

What is teeth whitening?

It is a bleaching process that lightens discoloration of enamel and dentin.

What can cause tooth discoloration?

There are many causes. The most common include aging and consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea or tobacco. During tooth formation, consumption of tetracycline, certain antibiotics or excessive fluoride may also cause tooth discoloration.

Who may benefit from teeth whitening?

Just about anyone can benefit from tooth whitening. However, treatment may not be as effective or some as it is for others. Upon an oral exam, determine if you are a candidate for this procedure, including a shade assessment.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Yes, research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. In fact, many dentists consider whitening the safest cosmetic dental procedure available. As with any tooth whitening product, is not recommended for children under 13 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.

Do the results last a long time?

By following some simple post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. We recommend flossing, brushing twice daily and maintaining regular cleanings and exams.

How does the bleach work?

The whitening gel's active ingredient is Hydrogen Peroxide. As Hydrogen Peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching any colored substance while keeping the structure of the tooth unchanged.

Is the In-office procedure painful?

No. During the procedure, patients can actually watch a movie or listen to music. Many fall asleep.

Are there any side effects?

Some people experience temporary increased tooth sensitivity to cold during treatment. These symptoms disappear within 1-3 days after interruption or completion of the treatment. The bleaching gels have improved tremendously in the last few years. There are desensitizers and fluorides in the gels that have greatly decreased side effects. There are many things we can do to assist you, so please ask for more information about your unique situation.

How long is the procedure?

The entire procedure takes just over one hour. The procedure begins with a preparation period followed by one hour of bleaching. A five-minute fluoride treatment completes the procedure (we recommend a cleaning prior to the actual whitening session).