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.
Dental bleaching can be used to correct many tooth discolorations. These discolorations may have been caused by staining, aging, or chemical damage to teeth. Although bleaching has been done for over 20 years, we use the latest in bleaching technology, and can offer a safe method for creating a beautiful, “brilliant” smile! In cases of extreme tooth discoloration, crowns or veneers may be the only choice, however because of the low cost of bleaching treatments it is nearly always worth a solid try.
There are two types of bleaching procedures we offer our patients: A One Hour In-Office Bleaching or Customized Take Home Bleaching Trays.
The entire procedure takes just over two hours. We use the “Zoom!” Bleaching Technique. The procedure begins with a preparation period followed by one hour of bleaching. The “Zoom!” light-activated whitening gel's active ingredient is Hydrogen Peroxide. As Hydrogen Peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the tooth, bleaching any colored substance while keeping the structure of the tooth unchanged. The “Zoom!” light aids in activating the Hydrogen Peroxide and helps it penetrate the surface of the tooth. Patients are able to watch a movie or listen to music for the entire procedure to make the procedure more comfortable. Just as with other cosmetic procedures, some sensitivity is to be expected for the first 24-48 hours. Customized take home bleach treys with sensitivity relief gel and pain medication are provided at this same visit to minimize any discomfort. These take home bleach trays can also be used to “touch up” the teeth as they slowly re-stain over time. Most patients touch up about after every six month cleaning appointment. Our office will monitor your bleaching needs and your teeth can remain white with the touch up treatment which is done at home for less than $10 per year.
We use the Nite/Day White bleaching system. The procedure requires two office visits. First appointment is taking impressions or mold of your teeth. From these impressions we create mouth trays. At the next appointment, patients are given the Nite/Day White Bleaching Gel and the mouth trays. Take-home gel is designed to be worn between one and eight hours per application. Our staff will advise you on how long and how often you should wear the bleaching trays.
The main difference between the two systems is that you use the Take-Home System in the convenience of your own home nightly for two to three weeks. The “Zoom!” In-Office System is performed entirely in the office and completed in one sitting.
By following some simple post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. We recommend flossing, brushing twice daily and avoid food and drinks that stain your teeth for a few days. Some people experience temporary increased teeth sensitivity after the procedure, so toothpaste for sensitive teeth and using the bleach treys with relief gel is highly recommended. Also, pain medication will be provided for you so if needed you will have it at home that same eveing. These symptoms disappear within 1-3 days after the completion of treatment.
Consulting the Dentist is always the first step to whitening your teeth safely. Over-the-counter teeth whitening strips, brush-on gels and toothpastes do work, but sometimes can be messy and are not as effective. They can take a few weeks or months to whiten your teeth just a few shades. Also take note that these products can harm the gums and teeth if done improperly. Over-the-counter bleaching agents are available at drug stores and pharmacies.
Just let us know at any appointment if you would like to begin bleaching. 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. But because of the low cost of bleaching treatments, bleaching is nearly always worth a solid try. Please note that bleaching will NOT change the color of any preexisting crowns or tooth colored fillings you may have. When these restorations occur on the front teeth, bleaching may make them appear darker (when compared to the newly lightened surrounding natural teeth). A Doctor will discuss your options with you prior to bleaching.