Teeth 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 method is using a home teeth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically.  Since teeth 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.  Depending on the degree of whitening, these replacements may not be necessary. 

Teeth whitening is not permanent.  A touch-up may be needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.  One of the advantages of home bleaching is that you always have the trays and can do a touch-up anytime you'd like.  Usually just one weekend will bring them back to maximum whiteness.

Reasons for teeth 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 teeth whitening involve?

This type of teeth whitening usually requires two visits.  At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic, trays.  They are quite comfortable and easy to wear.  The bleaching gel consists of carbamide peroxide which breaks down into hydrogen peroxide - this then breaks down into water and oxygen.  It is this "oxygenation" that bleaches your teeth.

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 one or twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for four to six 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.  We will see you once every two weeks to evaluate your progress and answer any questions you may  have.  Most reach maximum whiteness after roughly 4 weeks of treatment.  Others will require an additonal two weeks depending on how your teeth respond to the 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.