Tooth Whitening

Tooth whitening is used to change the color of your natural teeth and is an easy way to enhance your smile.

Because having whiter teeth has now become one of the top esthetic concerns of most patients, there are a number of ways to achieve the best result. The most popular method is a take-home tooth whitening  system. Since whitening only works on natural enamel it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns or existing dental  work. Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so all restorations will match the new whiter color of your natural teeth.   Keep in mind that tooth whitening is not permanent and touch-up brightening is required. The frequency of the brightening depends on your  habits, so if you smoke, drink coffee, tea or red wine you may need to re-bleach more often than an individual who does not.

Reasons for tooth whitening:

• Yellow or brown stained teeth
• Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development)
• Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline for example)

What does whitening involve?

Impressions (molds) of your upper and lower teeth will be taken. We then make models from these molds and fabricate trays that exactly match your teeth. Your whitening trays are ready for use in about one week. At the delivery appointment we will try the trays in for proper fit and comfort and make adjustments if necessary. To prevent or minimize sensitivity that sometimes accompanies whitening, a prescription strength fluoride gel is provided as part of the whitening. You will use it for brushing and for wearing in the trays prior to using the bleaching gel. The trays are then worn with a special whitening gel. Most patients wear them overnight, or they can be worn for shorter periods of time, depending on the doctor’s recommendation for your particular needs. Length of time before desired results also varies from patient to patient. It is normal to experience some sensitivity during the time you are whitening, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

Occasional touch-ups are needed over time and depending on your personal habits such as tobacco use, tea and coffee, etc. Additional gel can be obtained at our office as needed.   As with any dental procedure it is important that you keep your regularly scheduled recall appointments to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.