Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that aims to lighten the color of teeth and remove stains and discoloration. There are several methods of teeth whitening, including in-office treatments, at-home treatments, and over-the-counter products.

In-office treatments involve applying a bleaching agent to the teeth, which is activated by a special light. This process usually takes about an hour and can whiten teeth by several shades.

At-home treatments typically involve using a custom-fitted tray and a bleaching gel, which is worn for several hours each day for a period of one to two weeks. This method can also whiten teeth by several shades.

Over-the-counter products include whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels, which can be purchased at a drugstore or online. These products typically contain lower concentrations of bleaching agents and may take longer to produce results.

It's important to note that teeth whitening is not recommended for everyone. People with sensitive teeth, gum disease, or other dental problems should consult with a dentist before trying any whitening treatments. Additionally, excessive use of whitening products can lead to tooth sensitivity and damage to the enamel, so it's important to follow the instructions carefully and use these products in moderation.

Teeth whitening procedures can vary depending on the method used, but here is a general overview of what you can expect during a teeth whitening procedure:

1. Examination: We will examine the tooth that needs a crown or the missing teeth that require a bridge. If a crown is needed, the tooth will be prepared by removing any decay or damage and reshaping the tooth to make room for the crown. If a bridge is needed, the abutment teeth will be prepared by removing a portion of their enamel.
2. Cleaning: We will examine your teeth and gums to ensure they are healthy enough for whitening. They may also take a "before" photo to track your progress.
3. Isolation: We will isolate your teeth by placing a protective barrier over your gums and lips to prevent the whitening solution from coming into contact with them.
4. Application: The whitening solution will be applied to your teeth. If you are having an in-office treatment, We may use a special light to activate the solution. If you are doing an at-home treatment, you will be given a custom-fitted tray that you will wear for a specified period of time each day.
5. Multiple sessions: Depending on the severity of your discoloration, you may need multiple sessions to achieve your desired level of whitening.
6. Maintenance: Once your teeth are whitened, We may recommend that you use a whitening toothpaste or have periodic touch-up treatments to maintain your results.

It's important to note that teeth whitening is not a permanent solution and your teeth will naturally darken over time. Additionally, overuse of whitening products can damage your enamel and cause tooth sensitivity, so it's important to follow We's instructions carefully.