Are you interested in having your teeth cosmetically lightened?

You’re not alone. In fact, it seems only natural that most dental patients today are interested in having the brightest smile possible. At one time, crowns (caps) were the only alternative to restoring badly discolored or decayed teeth. More recently, porcelain veneers and composite bonding have become available as an attractive alternative for patients, because veneers require removal of little, if any, tooth structure.

Now there’s even another alternative available to make natural teeth look their brightest.

This process reverses the discoloration of tooth enamel to create a whiter, more aesthetic appearance. The advantages of this procedure are that no natural tooth structure is lost, and no anesthetic is required.

What Is Tooth Whitening?

Tooth Whitening is a bleaching process that reverses discolorations of enamel (the outside layer of the tooth structure) to create a whiter, brighter appearance.

Is Dental Whitening For Everyone?

Not necessarily. Whitening, is only one alternative to restoring discolored teeth. Determining whether or not you are a candidate for dental whitening is largely based upon diagnosing the exact cause of tooth discoloration. A number of factors contribute to discoloration, including:

Tetracycline (antibiotic) staining
Excessive fluoride
Trauma (injury) to the teeth
Pulp (nerve) degeneration
Restorative materials (silver, gold)
Genetic and acquired illnesses
Aging
Consumption of staining substances, such as coffee, tea or tobacco products

Another consideration in determining if whitening is for you is the strength and condition of the teeth. Careful clinical examination and X-rays will help determine if whitening is indicated for your teeth.

What Tooth Whitening Options are Available?

Depending on your unique situation, we may offer one of two different types of tooth whitening systems:
In-office (Active) or
At Home (Passive)
Sometimes we recommend both to give you the best results in the least amount of time. Regardless of which type of system is best for you, it's important that you follow our professional recommendations. We want to be sure you receive the best and safest treatment available.

What Happens During The In-Office (Active) Whitening Process?

This procedure is done in a series of appointments (usually three to five) until the desired effect is achieved. During the visits, we take a number of steps.

1. Lubricant is applied to the gums

2. A protective material (dental dam) is placed around the necks of the teeth to protect your gums, tongue and lips

3. The teeth are thoroughly cleaned to remove excess lubricant

4. Conditioner is applied; then the teeth are rinsed and dried.

5. The Whitening Solution is applied and left on the teeth for a period of time.

6.The teeth are given a final polish.

What Happens During the At Home (Passive) Whitening Process?
This procedure involves wearing a custom fitted appliance containing tooth whitening solution. You must wear this appliance for a period of days or weeks as we prescribe for your situation. In many cases, night time application alone is sufficient to achieve the results you desire. When undergoing the passive tooth whitening program you must return to the office periodically. These appointments ensure that the whitening system is working effectively and that your teeth and gums remain healthy.

Are Touch Ups Ever Required?

To stay whiter and brighter, your teeth may require periodic touch ups requiring that you wear your appliance with the whitening solution for a few days to a week. Please call us to discuss your needs and we'll be happy to advise you.

Are There Any Side Affects From Tooth Whitening?
Some patients' teeth exhibit a chalky appearance for a short time, due to a slight dehydration caused by the tooth whitening solution. Occasionally, patients experience mild sensitivity to cold food and beverages for a day or two following the procedure.

A Final Word

Advances in dentistry have made it easier than ever to help you get the whiter, brighter smile you've always wanted. To maintain this bright new appearance, we suggest you avoid enamel staining substances such as coffee, tea and tobacco products for several days following the procedure.
If you have further questions about tooth whitening please ask us! Those patients in our practice who have undergone cosmetic dental whitening treatment not only have acquired a more pleasing smile, but have experienced enhanced self esteem and self confidence. You can too!