Tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.

Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth.  Over the counter techniques include the use of whitening toothpastes, whitening strips and paint on gels, and generic "one size fits all" trays.  Whitening toothpastes take months to see minimal results and act on superficial stains only. Whitening strips and paint on gels may take 7 days to a month and may show inconsistant results.  They also act on superficial stains only.  The over the counter tray systems are generally not as comfortable as custom trays, they allow much more contact of the bleach with the gums, and the bleach leaks out much more rapidly, causing more side effects.

In our office we use two techniques. The most popular method is  a home tooth whitening system that uses custom made trays made in our office. This technique takes 7 to 14 days and will usually whiten teeth dramatically.  We also have ZOOM available.  ZOOM is an in office technique requiring approximately one hour, which also usually has dramatic results. 

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 maybe needed every few years, or more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.  With both techniques you will have trays to touch up with at a later date.

Reasons for tooth whitening:

• Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).
• Normal wear of outer tooth layer.
• Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.).
• Yellow, brown stained teeth.

What does tooth whitening involve?

The home tray tooth whitening usually requires two visits.  At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic, trays.

At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary.  The trays are worn with special whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.  It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

The ZOOM technique usually requires requires one appointment.  The procedure is quite simple. The lips and gums and covered, leaving only the teeth exposed.  The proprietary ZOOM whitening gel is applied, and is used in conjunction with the ZOOM light.  The light and gel work together to gently penetrate your teeth and break up stains and discoloration. The gel is applied for 3 fifteen minute periods for a total treatment time of 45 minutes. You walk out with your brighter, whiter smile.

You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.