Teeth Whitening

What are the details of teeth whitening?

Custom bleach splints can be made and ready for you to pick up within a few days. You can purchase a  special bleaching agent that you put into the clear splints. With only a few hours of wear per day, bleaching agent bubbles most moderate stains right out of your enamel in a very short time without altering tooth structure or existing dental work in any way. When your teeth reach the desired brightness, only occasional treatment is needed to maintain your new smile. 

Dental whitening can be used to correct tooth discoloration. Discolorations can be caused by staining, aging, or chemical damage to teeth. Using the latest in whitening technology, we can offer a safe method for creating a beautiful “brilliant” smile. Dental restorations such as fillings, crowns, bridges etc. do not whiten. If you have anterior restorations this may be something to consider before whitening.

How is teeth whitening done?

An impression is taken to make a specialized “mouthguard” to hold the bleach against the teeth. The material is used for about 3-4 hours for a week or two, and at the end of this time, significant whitening will occur. In some cases, the change is nothing short of brilliant. For confidence in appearance, bleaching technology allows us to promise improvements in yellowing, aging or stained teeth. For very severely stained teeth, crowns or dental veneers may be more appropriate.

Considerations for Teeth Whitening

Dental restorations such as fillings, crowns, veneers and bridges do not whiten. If you have anterior restorations this may be something to consider before whitening. 

If your teeth are normally sensitive, whitening may cause increased sensitivity.  

Over-the-counter bleaching agents are available for purchase at drug stores and pharmacies. However, since these products can cause harm to the gums and teeth, it’s better to use products that our practice recommends.