Teeth Whitening
Having a beautiful smile may be even easier than you think. Many people achieve the look they’ve been dreaming of with our simple “bleaching” procedure.
It’s safe, quick, and inexpensive. Just let us know at any appointment if you would like to begin brightening your smile. You can lighten only your upper teeth or both the upper and lower, depending on how much of each shows when you talk and smile.
Dental bleaching can be used to correct many tooth discolorations. These discolorations may have been caused by staining, aging, or chemical damage from medications. Using the latest in bleaching technology, we can offer a safe method for creating a beautiful, “brilliant” smile. Dental bleaching does not effectively whiten old restorations or caps. These can be replaced as needed to complete the esthetic improvement. In cases of extreme tooth discoloration, crowns, or veneers may be the only choice. However, because of the low cost of bleaching treatments, our whitening procedure is nearly always worth a try.
Key Benefits
- Corrects brown, yellow, and mottled tooth staining
- Works on people of all ages.
- Is a near permanent solution for a “dull” smile, restoring brightness, and bringing a smile alive.
How Is It Done?
An impression is taken to make a specialized molded appliance to hold the bleach against the teeth. In only a few days, following the taking of these simple impressions, your custom whitening appliances will be ready for you. We provide you with a special bleaching agent that you put into the clear, nearly invisible appliances. With only a few hours of wear 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. Once your teeth reach the brightness you desire, only occasional treatment is needed to maintain your new smile.
The material is used once or twice each day for an hour or so. The process is continued for about two to three weeks. In some cases, the change is nothing short of brilliant. Results may vary but improvement can almost always be expected. For confidence in appearance, bleaching technology offers improvements in yellowing, aging, or stained teeth. For very severely stained teeth, crowns, or veneers may be more appropriate.
Considerations
Over-the-counter bleaching agents are available at drug stores and pharmacies; however, these products are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration or the American Dental Association. Some can harm the gums and teeth. We only use products from reputable producers with proven track records. We will instruct you in their proper use and are always available if questions or problems arise.
What Can Cause Tooth Discoloration?
There are many causes. The most common include aging and consumption of high staining substances such as coffee, tea or tobacco. During active tooth formation, the use of certain antibiotics (like tetracycline), poor general health, childhood diseases or excessive fluoride may also cause tooth discoloration.
Who May Benefit From Tooth Whitening?
Just about anyone can benefit from tooth whitening. However, treatment may not be as effective for some as it is for others. Upon an oral exam, we can determine if you are a candidate for this procedure.
Is Tooth Whitening Safe?
Yes, research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. In fact, many dentists consider whitening the safest cosmetic dental procedure available. Tooth whitening is not recommended for children under 13 years of age or for pregnant or lactating women.
How Long Do The Results Last?
By following some simple post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. We recommend flossing, brushing twice daily with a whitening toothpaste, and occasional touch-ups at home using products available at our office. These are professional formula products designed specifically to safely and effectively keep your teeth their brightest.