Teeth Whitening
There are several different methods and products to whitening teeth. For patients who want to achieve a brighter smile we realize that it can be a difficult differentiating what would be best for them. We recommend consulting with your doctor to decide what method would work best for you.
Whiter teeth NOW
For the most immediate results we offer in office whitening. We utilize Opalescence® Boost Teeth Whitening system. This procedure is performed in our office, your dental professional will apply a whitening gel to the surface of your teeth. The procedure typically takes 90 min, during which patients are provided headphones and typically watch a movie or favorite television show. The results are immediate. We also fabricate trays so that you can touch up and continue to keep your teeth at the desired shade.
AT-HOME TEETH WHITENING
Bleach Trays
Bleach trays are another type of professional bleaching, and a favorite with our patients. This method involves the fabrication of custom-made trays made from impressions taken of your teeth. Professional strength whitening gel is placed in your custom trays so that the gel flows uniformly over your teeth. The gel unlike strips contains ingredients intended to provide minimal sensitivity. Results from bleach trays typically take 10 to 14 days, although often results are seen in as little as three to five days.
Teeth-Whitening Strips
Made by several major manufacturers whitening strips can be purchased over-the-counter, or through a dental professional with higher concentration of active ingredient. They are thin strips of flexible plastic with a thin film of hydrogen peroxide on the side that rests against the teeth. The strips are applied directly against your teeth for 30 minutes a day, twice a day. The duration needed and results will vary. As with any teeth-bleaching therapy we recommend you consult your dental professional before use.
Over-the-Counter Paint-On Teeth Whiteners
Recently there have been several over-the-counter whitening options that have appeared on drugstore shelves . Often referred to as “paint–on” whiteners they are often less expensive, and less effective than whitening strips or trays.
Whitening Toothpaste and Mouthwash
Many toothpastes and mouthwashes are advertising teeth-whitening capabilities. These products contain mild abrasive ingredients designed to remove surface stains. They do not however contain materials needed to lighten the shade of teeth. Used properly they like other toothpastes can help improve one’s oral hygiene, but it is typical for patients to see little or no results in the actual whitening of teeth. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about teeth whitening, please contact our dental practice to schedule an appointment.