Professional Teeth Whitening

Tooth whitening (or bleaching) can be your road to a brighter smile. It 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. The most popular method is using a home tooth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically. Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate and consider the replacement of any old fillings, crowns when you are thinking about getting your teeth professionally whitened. Replacement of any tooth restorations is 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, more often if you smoke or drink coffee, tea or wine.

Reasons you might want to whiten your teeth:

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

What does tooth whitening involve?

This type of 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 any necessary adjustments are made. The trays are worn with a 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.

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.

To find out if a professional teeth whitening procedure is right for you, fill out our contact us form or call our office at (610) 933-3717 for more information or to schedule your free consultation.