Teeth Whitening – home and in office whitening procedures

Having a beautiful smile may be even easier than you think. Many people achieve the look they’ve been dreaming of with our simple “bleaching” procedure.

What are the details of teeth whitening?

We offer both home whitening as well as “In-Office” whitening procedures to our patients depending on their needs. It’s safe and quick. Just let us know at any appointment if you would like to whiten your teeth. You can lighten both the upper and lower arches at the same time or choose to whiten one or the other depending on your needs.

Molds of both your upper and lower teeth arches are taken to fabricate the custom whitening trays used to whiten your teeth and only require a day or two wait to be ready for you to pick up. We then provide you with a special whitening gel and directions on how to apply the whitener that is placed into the clear whitening trays. They trays are worn between 2 to 6 hours per day, usually before you go to sleep depending on your needs. Our special whitening gel removes the stains right out of your enamel in a very short time without altering tooth structure or existing dental work in any way. When your teeth reach the desired shade, you keep the trays for occasional touch-ups to maintain the color of your new smile. 

“In-Office” whitening usually takes between 1 to 1.5 hours and requires the placement of a whitening gel on each tooth and the application of a special laser like light to speed up the whitening process. 

REASONS TO USE TEETH WHITENING

Dental whitening can be used to correct tooth discoloration and staining.  Discolorations of the teeth can be caused by food or smoke staining, aging, or chemical discoloration due to the ingestion and absorption in the enamel of antibiotics (tetracycline) or highly mineralized water during the early childhood development of the dentition. Using the latest in whitening technology and materials, we can offer a safe method for creating a beautiful “brilliant” smile. In cases of extreme tooth discoloration, porcelain veneers or composite bonding may be the only alternative to improve the appearance of the teeth. 

Considerations for Teeth Whitening

Over-the-counter bleaching agents are available for purchase at drug stores and pharmacies. However, since these products can cause harm to the gums and teeth, it’s better to use products that our practice recommends.

If you prefer teeth that are immediately whiter right now or you would rather whiten your teeth over a few nights while you sleep, Dr’s. Schwartz or Berman have your answer with state of the art teeth whitening systems that can whiten your teeth an average of up to eight shades in a little over an hour while you relax at your dentist’s office. It’s ideal for anyone who wants immediate results. The take-home whitening system uses a specially formulated whitening gel to whiten your teeth an average of six shades in three or 4 nights but we usually recommend up to 7 nights for first time users. Start on Friday and by Monday or Tuesday you’ll have a whole new smile.

WHO MAY BENEFIT FROM TOOTH WHITENING?

Just about anyone can benefit from tooth whitening. However, treatment may not be as effective for some as it is for others. With an oral exam, Dr’s. Schwartz or Berman can determine if you are a candidate for this procedure, including a shade assessment.

IS TOOTH WHITENING BECOMING MORE POPULAR?

Absolutely! A bright, beautiful smile can make a big difference and the whitening systems used in our office makes it easier and faster than ever before.

IS TOOTH WHITENING SAFE?

Yes, research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. In fact, many dentists consider whitening the safest cosmetic dental procedure available. As with any tooth whitening product, it is not recommended for children under 13 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.

DO THE RESULTS LAST A LONG TIME?

By following some simple post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. We recommend flossing, brushing twice daily with a Whitening Toothpaste, and monthly touch-ups with our take-home gel. These are professional formula products designed specifically to keep your teeth their brightest. They are available through our office.

IS THERE ANY DIFFERENCE BETWEEN OVER-THE-COUNTER TOOTH WHITENERS AND Whiteners prescribed by our office!

Yes! Consulting Drs. Schwartz or Berman is always the first step to whitening your teeth safely. Over-the-counter tooth whitening strips, brush-on gels and toothpastes take weeks or months to whiten your teeth just a few shades. Our whitening system is clinically proven to whiten your teeth up to eight shades in one hour or up to six shades in just one weekend.

HOW DOES THE  IN-OFFICE SYSTEM WORK?

The light-activated whitening gel’s active ingredient is Hydrogen Peroxide. As Hydrogen Peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching any colored substance while keeping the structure of the tooth unchanged. The bleaching light aids in activating the Hydrogen Peroxide and helps it penetrate the surface of the tooth.

IS THE IN-OFFICE PROCEDURE PAINFUL?

No. During the procedure, patients can actually watch television or listen to music. Many fall asleep.

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

Some people experience temporary increased tooth sensitivity to cold during treatment. These symptoms disappear within 1-3 days after interruption or completion of the treatment.

HOW LONG IS THE PROCEDURE?

The entire procedure takes just over one hour to one and one-half hours. The procedure begins with a preparation period followed by one hour of bleaching. A five-minute fluoride treatment completes the procedure (we recommend a cleaning prior to the actual Whitening session).