Tooth Whitening

 

Do you wish you had whiter teeth?

Thanks to new materials and technology, you can have a whiter, brighter smile!

Ever notice how some people can practically light up a room with their bright, beautiful smiles? A natural-looking, sparkling white smile can be yours with a safe, painless and effective professional tooth whitening procedure -- and a little help from us!

 

What is tooth whitening?

Tooth whitening is a bleaching process that reverses discolorations of enamel (the outside layer of tooth structure) to create a whiter,  brighter appearance. No natural tooth structure is lost, and no anesthetic is required.

 

How do I know if tooth whitening is for me?

We're glad to help you determine if you're a good candidate. First, for your safety, we need to check the strength and condition of your teeth through an exam and x-rays. Then before recommending tooth whitening for you, we diagnose the exact cause of  your tooth discoloration. A number of factors can contribute to discoloration, including:

• Tetracycline (antibiotic) staining

• Excessive fluoride

• Trauma (injury) to the teeth

• Pulp (nerve) degeneration

• Restorative materials (silver, gold)

• Genetic and acquired illnesses

• Aging

• Use of staining substances, such as coffee, tea or tobacco

 

What tooth whitening options are available?

Depending upon your unique situation, we may offer one of two different types of tooth whitening systems: in-office (active) or home use (passive) under our professional supervision. Sometimes we recommend a combination of both to give you the best results in the least amount of time. Regardless of which type of system is best for you, it's important that you follow our professional recommendations. We want to be sure you receive the best and safest treatment available.

 

What happens during in-office tooth whitening?

Advancement in whitening products makes in-office tooth whitening faster and more effective than ever. Also called chairside bleaching. the procedure can be accomplished in one to three visits that take from 30 minutes to an hour.

• We place a protective material (dental dam) that exposes your teeth and shields your gums, tongue and lips.

• We apply lubricant to any exposed gums for further protection.

• We apply a tooth whitening agent containing a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide.

• We use special light or a laser to speed up the whitening process.

• After whitening we can also contour your teeth to improve their shape and polish them to a natural luster.

 

What happens during dentist-supervised at-home tooth whitening?

First you'll be fitted for thin custom mouth trays for use at home. Then we'll discuss with you the many products that offer varying concentrations of bleaching agents, which determines the wear time required for whitening results.

 

Peroxide-containing whiteners typically come in gel form that you apply to your custom-fitted mouth tray. Some products are used twice a day for two weeks. Others are designed for overnight use for up to two weeks. Newer products continue to offer shorter daily wear times to encourage patient compliance and get faster results. During at-home treatment, you must return to our office to ensure the product is working and that your teeth and gums remain healthy.

 

Are touch ups ever required?

To stay whiter and brighter, your teeth may require periodic touch ups requiring that you wear your appliance with the whitening solution for a few days to a week. Please call us to discuss your needs, and we'll be happy to advise you.

 

Are there any side effects from tooth whitening?

Some patient's teeth exhibit a chalky appearance for a short time, due to a slight dehydration caused by the tooth whitening solution. Occasionally, patients experience mild sensitivity to cold food and beverages for a day or two following  the procedure.

 

What about over-the-counter tooth whitening products?

Over-the-counter whitening products, whitening strips and toothpastes have become popular. However, the American Dental Association cautions patients to use accepted whitening products under professional supervision for safety and better results. Whitening toothpastes can temporarily remove only the most superficial stains.

 

Final Word:

Advances in dentistry have made it easier than ever to help you get the whiter, brighter smile you've always wanted. To maintain this bright new appearance, we suggest that you avoid enamel-staining substances such as coffee, tea and tobacco products for several days following the procedure.

 

If you have any further questions about tooth whitening, please ask us! Those patients in our practice who have undergone cosmetic dental whitening treatment not only have acquired a more pleasing smile, but have experienced enhanced self-esteem and self confidence. You can, too!