Teeth whitening or bleaching is a dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel.
Request AppointmentTeeth Whitening At Home
We offer professional at-home teeth whitening services to our patients. 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 may be needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.
Reasons for Whitening
- Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development)
- Normal wear of outer tooth layer
- Stained teeth due to medications
- Yellow, brown stained teeth
What does at-home tooth whitening involve?
At-home teeth whitening usually requires two initial visits to our dental office. During the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth, based on which we will fabricate your custom clear plastic whitening trays.
At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary. Your dentist will then send you on your way with the trays, the whitening solution, and instructions for how often and how long you should whiten your teeth with them each day.
You can then wear your custom-fitted teeth whitening trays in the convenience of your own home, or as you go about your day, until the desired shade has been achieved. The trays are very inconspicuous, and will not significantly affect your speech or appearance when worn.
After Care
It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it should subside within a few days after you have stopped bleaching.
Brushing with a sensitive toothpaste before you begin your whitening procedure is also helpful for tooth sensitivity.
You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a healthy-looking smile.