As diligently as you may take care of your teeth, they, unfortunately, may still get yellow or stained over time. This can be due to a number of reasons, such as diet (consuming teeth-staining substances such as coffee and tea), personal habits (such as smoking), or simply natural aging. There are several options for whitening available, from toothpastes and mouth rinses to whitening strips. For the best results, try a teeth whitening treatment at our office.

How does teeth whitening work?

The active ingredient in teeth whitening products is hydrogen peroxide. Store-bought whitening methods use this ingredient only to remove surface stains. Professional whitening treatments produce a more dramatic effect because they contain a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide and are able to break up stains below the enamel to make them less visible. The result is a smile that appears whiter.

Procedure

The teeth whitening procedure at our office takes less than an hour. First, a protective gel will be applied to your gums to prevent irritation from the whitening gel. Then, the teeth whitening solution will be applied. A whitening light will be applied to the teeth to activate the chemicals in the solution. This process will be repeated two or three times more. The results will be immediate, with a smile several shades whiter than before. You will be provided with an at-home whitening kit after the treatment to help you maintain your smile.

It’s recommended that, if you are planning on getting your teeth whitened specifically for an event, such as a wedding, you should schedule the procedure at least one month before the event. If you need dental work done in the future, the whitening procedure should be done first. Patients with tooth sensitivity can also receive teeth whitening treatment, but may need to use a desensitizing toothpaste before the procedure or may require a lower concentration of the whitening product.

Whether you are considering a professional or at-home whitening treatment, it is important to consult with your dentist first. Schedule an appointment with our office to discuss your options with your dentist.