Tooth Whitening

TOOTH WHITENING

Tooth whitening or "bleaching" is the simplest and easiest way to improve your smile. This treatment gives your teeth a white and bright youthful appearance. Most methods use a form of peroxide to oxidize the stains imbedded within the tooth.

Over-the-counter whitening strips can be used to lighten the front teeth. Though limited in their ability to whiten all the teeth, this method is the most economical way to see a difference in the brightness of your teeth.

Professional whitening strips allow more teeth to be whitened. Dentist dispensed agents contain a more effective concentration. This method is excellent for teenagers who are still experiencing growth.

Home Bleaching

Professional custom trays used to hold the whitening solution are the most efficient and successful way to lighten the teeth. The gel is placed into the trays and worn for 1-2 hours per day usually for 2 weeks. This allows the solution to be best absorbed into the teeth. When re-treatment is desired only the solution needs to be purchased making it the most economical long-term method, The upper teeth can be bleached first showing the contrast between the treated (upper) and untreated (lower) teeth.

Zoom® In-Office Tooth Whitening

In-office tooth whitening is the preferred method for patients interested in the quickest results. In conjunction with office-fabricated trays excellent results can be obtained. The initial procedure takes around 2 hours to complete. This method has been well publicized on many of the television makeover programs.

The effectiveness of tooth whitening is dependent upon the concentration of the whitening solution and the length of time the gel is in contact with the teeth. Sensitivity is not unusual following treatment but can be minimized by the application of fluoride, potassium nitrate, or amorphous calcium phosphate prior to or in conjunction with treatment. Tooth whitening is safe and effective when used in a dentist-supervised program.