IN OFFICE

The first professional option is commonly referred to as “in-office” whitening. This procedure is performed in a dental office. An in-office whitening treatment may include the use of a lamp or laser to enhance the effectiveness of the gel by accelerating the peroxide. During an office visit, your dental professional will apply the whitening gel and, depending on the system being used, shine a light source directly onto the teeth. The entire office visit generally takes about 90 minutes with immediate results.

AT HOME

Tray bleaching is a type of professional whitening that uses custom-made trays and whitening gel only available through your dentist. The whitening gel placed in custom-fitted trays that fit perfectly over your teeth. As the peroxide in the gel breaks down, hydroxyradicals help whiten stained teeth. Unlike strips, this process whitens all your natural teeth and may contain ingredients intended to provide maximum comfort. At-home professional tray whitening generally takes 10 to 14 days, although you may notice results in as little as three to five days. Paint-On Teeth Whiteners One type of readily accessible whitening product is commonly referred to as “paint-on” teeth whitener. Paint-on whiteners can be purchased over the counter and are generally less expensive and less effective than whitening strips or professional options. Paint-on teeth whiteners consist of a gel applied to the tooth with a small brush. Paint-on whitening gel hardens into a film that coats the treated tooth and dissolves in the mouth. As with any teeth-whitening regimen, it is wise to consult with a dental professional before treating discolored teeth.

Instead of teeth whitening trays, you may want to consider using whitening strips, which are one of the easiest types of teeth bleaching kits to use. There are numerous products available, and an effective whitening strip regimen can take just minutes a day and can offer dramatic whitening in just a few days. These flexible strips adhere to your teeth and feature peroxide-based whitening products to offer a bright smile that’s fast and easy. Results for some whitening strips can last up to 12 months, providing you with a beautiful smile for an entire year.

The least expensive options are whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes. Designed to have “whitening” capabilities, toothpastes and mouthwashes work to remove surface stains using mild abrasives. However, unlike bleaching materials used in professional whitening procedures, these products do not lighten the actual color or shade of the tooth. Whitening toothpastes affect surfaces stains and will mildly lighten your teeth. In general, whitening procedures work for most people. Tooth whitening procedures wok best if your teeth are darkened from age, coffee, tea or smoking. Teeth darkened with yellow, brown or orange respond better to whitening. Other types of stains (i.e. gray) by fluorosis, smoking or tetracycline can lightened but with less than satisfactory results. It is important to follow an oral hygiene regimen that includes daily brushing, flossing and rinsing. It’s also recommended that you visit a dental professional for routine cleansing twice a year. Finally, avoiding products such as coffee, tea, wine, soda, and tobacco can help protect your teeth from discoloration. If you would like to learn more about teeth whitening, please contact our practice to schedule an appointment or call 915-779-6403