Teeth Whitening

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth Whitening is a safe and non-surgical method for removing surface stains on your teeth. When done properly, tooth whitening can reveal the natural color of the teeth by removing surface stains and creating a brighter smile.

Why would I need my teeth whitened?

Over time, teeth can become stained, and look duller as a result. There are several foods and drinks that can create surface stains such as dark tea, red wine & coffee. Smoking may also be a cause for teeth to become stained.

But it is not only food that causes discolored teeth. Just as we all have different hair colors, our teeth may be different pigments as well. It is very uncommon for people to have the smiles we see in film and on T.V. Lastly, age may be another reason why your teeth may lose their shine, but teeth whitening can help to provide a brighter smile without the need for surgery.

What does tooth whitening involve?

There are several methods that can be used to whiten teeth. Professional bleaching is the most commonly used and is one of the most effective methods for removing stains. Through professional dental care, protective barriers are placed on the gums in order to provide protection. The whitening agent is then applied to the tooth for a specific amount of time.

The whitening agent is typically made from hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. It works by allowing oxygen to pass into the enamel, which causes the color of teeth to become lighter.

How long does this take?

Depending on the method of whitening and the extensiveness, your total treatment time can be completed typically within three to four weeks. During the treatment, multiple trips to the dentist are needed. For the first appointment, custom made trays will need to be made in order to properly distribute the whitening agent for at home treatment. From there, treatment is typically performed at home which requires regular application of the product over several weeks. The whitening agent is typically applied over 30 minutes to one hour at a time. New treatment methods and products that have come out may allow for the product to be applied for up to 8 hours, meaning that treatment can be completed in as little as one week. Be sure to ask your dentist about the bleaching options available to find which ones are offered, and which would work best for you.

How long will my teeth stay whiter?

The length of results will vary from person to person based on habits, types of food and drink consumed, smoking habits, oral care, and more. When properly cared for, teeth whitening results can last as long as 3 or 4 years. It is important to note that teeth whitening effects are never permanent, and in order to guarantee long term results multiple treatments will need to be made when a patient notices that whitening results are beginning to fade. In addition, at home whitening with custom trays helps to maintain the whitening shade you have achieved

What are the side effects?

Your teeth and gums may feel sensitive to hot and cold following the procedure. This should subside as early as one day after treatment. If discomfort is unable to be controlled by OTC medications, contact your provider.

If any of these side effects continue you should go to your dentist.

What about home whitening kits?

There are some advantages and disadvantages to choosing at home whitening kits over professional treatment. For starters, at home kits are typically less expensive and easier to obtain, making them an appealing option for those who want to try and get quick feedback. However, at home whitening agents are not as strong as professionally used material which gives in-office treatment a more dramatic effect.