Teeth Whitening

It may be easier thank you think to get a beautiful smile. Many people achieve the look they’ve been dreaming of with our simple “bleaching” procedure.

What are the details of teeth whitening?

It’s safe, quick, and inexpensive. Just let us know at any appointment if you would like to whiten your teeth. You can lighten the upper teeth only or both the upper and lower teeth. The number of teeth lightened is dependent on the amount seen when you smile or speak.

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 splints to be worn for only a few hours 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 shade, only occasional treatment is needed to maintain your new smile. 

How is teeth whitening done?

An impression is taken to customize a “mouthguard” or “stent” to hold the bleach against the teeth. The material is used each night for about 3-4 hours for a week or two and at the end of this time, significant whitening will occur. In some cases, the change is nothing short of brilliant. For confidence in appearance, bleaching technology allows us to promise improvements in yellowing, aging or stained teeth. For very severely stained teeth, crowns or porcelain veneers may be more appropriate.

Dental bleaching can be used to correct tooth discoloration. Discolorations can be 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.

Considerations for Teeth Whitening

Over-the-counter bleaching agents are available for purchase at drug stores and pharmacies. However, since these products can cause harm to the gums and teeth, it’s better to use products that our practice recommends.

Effects of bleaching on teeth

Bleaching may cause sensitivity of the teeth and gums during application and also may cause prolonged sensitivity of teeth for a few days or weeks when completed. If relief from sensitivity does not occur contact our office. A sensitivity relief tooth paste may have to be utilized until sensitivity wears off.

Contraindications for Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is not recommended if you:

• Are pregnant.
• Have extreme sensitivity.
• If the tooth/teeth are cracked, have cavities or if the pulp is exposed.
• Have existing crown or large fillings along the smile line. 
• Plaque build-up.