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 methods are in-office bleaching, home tooth whitening systems, and micro-abraision.  Each method 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.

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 (at home) 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.

What does in-office whitening involve?

This type of tooth whitening usually takes one visit.  It normally takes from one to two hours in the office.  The whitening solution is placed on the teeth and a special activating light shines on the teeth.  The shade of the teeth is measured before and after the whitening session to further demonstrate the dramatic effect of how light the teeth have gotten.

 

 What is micro-abraision?

Micro-abraision is a special bleaching process for difficult surface stains on the teeth, usually white or brown spots from fluorosis.  A special bleaching paste is rubbed on the stained teeth and it actually rubs the stain away.  Afterward, the teeth will gain a very beautiful sheen to the enamel.

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