Teeth Whitening Techniques

Teeth whitening is a procedure used for those who wish to brighten their smile by decreasing stain and discoloration. Through whitening or bleaching, your teeth can change by as much as three shades! When whitening teeth, the goal is to improve brightness, while still appearing natural.

Tooth discoloration is caused by a number of factors including age, stain, and chemical damage. More familiar factors are smoking, and drinking tea, coffee, and soft drinks. Genetics can also play a large role in the discoloration of teeth. If discoloration is due to medical reasons we recommend that you speak to a doctor.

There are several different methods of whitening including chemical (bleaching), in office gel treatment, and most recently, laser whitening.

Bleaching (or chemical whitening) can be done by a dentist or even by the patient themselves. With the right products and careful instructions, patients can perform the whitening right from their own home. This method is greatly preferred by those who appreciate the convenience of being at home. The patient will need to visit a dentist before beginning the whitening process, as the dentist will need to create a custom fit mouth tray. The dentist will also need to prescribe the correct amount of whitening solution. Bleaching at home could last two or three hours, and you may be required to keep the mouth tray in over night. After two or three weeks of repeat bleaching, your dentist should be seen again to analyze the results.

In office treatment is one of the most common, as it puts people at ease. With in office-whitening patients can rest assured that the procedure will be done safely and correctly. For in office treatments, dentists use a special light and whitening gel. The whitening gel is applied to the teeth and the light reflects the crystals in the gel, making teeth whiter. Generally this process takes about two hours but may depend on how much work needs to be done.

Laser bleaching is the newest form of whitening available. Once again the whitening gel is applied to the teeth, only this time a laser light is used. Laser treatment will only take one visit.

Advantages of teeth whitening include improved appearance, self confidence, and minimizing the appearance of facial wrinkles.

Disadvantages include soreness due to bleach, and discomfort with the whitening process.

Tooth whitening is not permanent. The results will last a year or two depending on the patient’s personal habits.

For more information on teeth whitening, contact a dentist in your area.