When is Tooth Whitening recommended?

When there is Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).
When teeth are stained due to medications (tetracycline, etc.)
When teeth are yellow or brown stained.

What is Tooth Whitening?

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

Having whiter teeth is the number one aesthetic concern of most patients. Tooth whitening can be done a number of ways. The most common method involves using a take-home tray system. Another way to whiten teeth is by using bleaching material and a special light in the dental office. This procedure is advantageous because it gives a beautiful result in one appointment.

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

If I decide to Whiten my Teeth, what is the process?

The process of whitening depends upon the type of whitening system you decide on.

The take-home system usually requires two visits. At the first appointment, impressions (moulds) will be made of your teeth to create custom, clear plastic, trays.

At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit. The trays are worn with special whitening solution usually once a day for 30 minutes 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. Your dentist may recommend fluoride to help with any sensitivity.

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.

The in-office method requires a two hour visit. First a base line shade is taken of your teeth. Then your teeth are isolated by applying a barrier to the gums and lips. A whitening gel is applied to the teeth and a special light is used to activate the gel, accelerating the whitening process. The gel and light are used two to three times for a total time of about one hour. All materials are then cleaned off your mouth and teeth. Most people notice a dramatic whitening of their teeth when using this process.