Cosmetic Procedures -Whitening

Over the years, like almost everyone, you've experienced a natural buildup of organic pigments on your teeth.  Colorized proteins from coffee, tea, and other foods have simply darkened the natural whiteness of your teeth.  Any use of tobacco, antibiotics, and certain minerals usually speeds the darkening process.  But, yellowing can be quickly and easily reversed.

Whitening is gentle and safe when supervised by your dentist.  In fact, dentist-supervised whitening has been done for nearly a century, but has increased in popularity in recent years as yellowed teeth are becoming less and less acceptable, both socially and professionally.  Procedures have been simplified an shown to be safe.

How long will whitening take?

You'll see results right away, usually within three days of starting the whitening process.  The complete process normally takes between 1 and 2 weeks, but treatment times will vary depending on the sources, type and depth of discoloration.

How does whitening work?

Your dentist will first check your teeth and gums to be sure that you begin the treatment in good dental health.  Then your dentist will take an impression of your teeth in order to provide you with a custom-fit plastic tray designed to hold the bleaching gel next to your teeth.  Following the bleaching program your dentist suggests, you'll notice the results quickly, as the gentle oxygenating action of the gel begins to whiten your teeth.

Notice the difference in whiteness between the lower
teeth (before whitening) vs. the upper teeth (after whitening).

Is there any discomfort?

Some patients might feel increased sensitivity to cold foods during the whitening process, but this sensitivity ends a day or two after the treatment is complete.

Will whitening damage my teeth?

Not at all.  The whitening process will not affect your enamel, tooth structure, bonding or restorations.  Whitening acts only on the molecules that carry the discoloration.

How long will it last?

Non-smokers who don't drink coffee or tea often see little or no change over five years.  But your own long-term results will depend on your habits and specific foods you eat.  Based on those variables, some patients may require a "touch-up" treatment at regular intervals.

Who can use tooth whitening?

Nearly anyone age 9 to 90.  If you want to obtain a more confident smile by improving the whiteness of your teeth, talk to us any time.

What's the difference between dentist-supervised and over-the-counter treatments?

There are many differences, starting with the fact that your teeth and your own dental situation are absolutely unique.  Which is why the safety of your treament requires a dentist's evaluation and supervision.  You'll also find that trays designed by a dentist (see below) will fit better and will consequently expel far less bleaching gel than the unsupervised, over-the-counter, one-size-fits-all treatment alternatives.

You'll find a significant difference in both the comfort and safety of both dentist-designed trays vs. unsupervised, over-the counter, on-size-fits-all "boil and bite" trays.

If you have any more questions about Whitening, please just ask.  You can email, call or stop by and discuss your options.

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