Tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.  Over time, your teeth darken as minerals penetrate their outer enamel layer.  This darkening can be caused by foods and beverages that stain, such as coffee, colas, tea, red wine, or berries.  Tobacco products, like cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco, can cause teeth to take on a yellowish brown hue.  And the natural aging process can also cause your teeth to darken.

Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth.  The most popular method is using a home tooth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically.  A specially formulated whitening gel, designed to be highly effective, yet safe, gently forces oxygen through the enamel of your teeth.  The process virtually erases stains and brightens your teeth, without damaging your tooth enamel or your gums. Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc.  Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

Tooth whitening is not permanent.  A touch-up maybe needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.

Reasons for tooth whitening:

• Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).
• Normal wear of outer tooth layer.
• Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.).
• Yellow, brown stained teeth.

What does tooth whitening involve?

First, we thoroughly examine your teeth and your mouth to make sure at-home whitening is an appropriate option for you.  This type of tooth whitening usually requires two visits.  At the first appointment we take impressions of your teeth, and use the impressions to make models of your teeth.  Using these models, we make a personalized whitening tray that fits tightly over your teeth, allowing us to achieve optimum results.

At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary.  The trays are worn with special whitening solution either 1 to 3 hours during the day or overnight for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.  It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.