A bright sparkling smile can make a big difference in anyone’s appearance. Extensive research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. The chair side whitening system that we are currently using in our office is effective and fast, very fast. In about 1 hour, your teeth will become dramatically whiter. The convenience of this system in comparison to days of wearing trays or strips, makes it the perfect choice for the busy individual.
Teeth discolor for various reasons. The most common causes include aging and consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea, colas, tobacco, red wine etc. During tooth formation, consumption of tetracycline, certain antibiotics or excessive fluoride may also cause tooth discoloration. The in-office whitening process is simple. It begins with a short preparation to cover your lips and gums, leaving only your teeth exposed. A bleaching gel is then applied to the teeth and activated by a special light. The light and gel work together to gently penetrate your teeth, breaking up stains and discoloration.
The take home method is another option that we offer. Clear plastic trays are fabricated for the patient that fit the upper and lower teeth. The patient then wears the trays for 1 – 2 hours a day with bleaching gel that is provided. This method will show results after a period of time while the in-office technique shows immediate results.
How does the process work? The active ingredient in the whitening gel is hydrogen peroxide. As the hydrogen peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching colored substances while the structure of the tooth is unchanged. The light aids in activating the hydrogen peroxide and helps it penetrate the surface of the tooth.
How long will the results last? By following some post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. Find out if you are a candidate for this incredible process and take the first step to feeling good, looking great and making a memorable impression every time you smile.