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

Having whiter teeth has become the number one aesthetic desire of most patients. There are a number of ways to whiten teeth.  The most popular and successful method is using a home tooth whitening system (tray bleaching) that will whiten teeth dramatically. We also offer in-office, light activated bleaching (BriteSmile) to accelerate the bleaching process. (Click on BriteSmile for more information.) 

Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate old fillings and crowns before bleaching is begun. (Replacement of old restorations after bleaching may be necessary so they will match the newly bleached teeth.) Teeth that have been whitened may tend to revert to their original color over time, so a touch-up maybe needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or red wine.

What does Home Tooth Whitening involve?

Home Tooth Whitening (Tray Bleaching) usually requires two visits to get started.  At the first visit, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth so that we can make custom, clear plastic trays.

At the second visit, photographs are taken, your custom trays are fitted and you are instructed on how to use them. The trays are worn with special whitening gel once or twice a day for 30 minutes. Results are often visible in just a few days and the progress of your treatment is checked periodically. Total treatment time depends on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening. 

Once bleaching is completed, an occasional booster treatment will keep your new smile bright and beautiful.

What about over-the-counter Tooth Whitening kits?

Over-the-counter kits like Crest Whitestrips^® can be effective in certain situations. They are less expen sive but less controllable than custom-fitted trays and work best when the shade of the teeth does not have to be changed dramatically.

Have a question about tooth whitening? Please call us. We'll be happy to do a quick, complimentary shade evaluation to determine which technique is right for you.