Teeth Whitening

Tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.

Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth.  The most popular method is using a home tooth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically.  Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc.  Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

Tooth whitening is not permanent.  A touch-up maybe needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.

We offer 3 Bleaching Systems:

• Office Bleaching:

  • 45 minute session in office

• At-Home Bleaching:

  • You can take trays home for additional bleaching if desired.

  • This includes occasional touch ups or even scheduled every 3 months in order to ensure good upkeep of whitened teeth

  • Make sure you don’t consume anything that would drastically stain your teeth for 3 days (artificial colorants/coffee/tea) after bleaching. If you consume something that could stain your shirt, assume it will stain your teeth.

• Daily Bleaching:

  • Use the trays for 30 minutes every day

  • This allows people to use them regularly without having to worry about monitoring and keeping a schedule.

  • The brand is called Opalescence. You can buy it at our office, 10 trays for abut $80. 

Reasons for tooth whitening:

• Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).

• Normal wear of outer tooth layer.

• Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.).

• Yellow, brown stained teeth.

What does tooth whitening involve?

This type of tooth whitening usually requires two visits.  At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic, trays.

At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary.  The trays are worn with special whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.  It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.