Teeth Whitening

In-Office Professional Tooth Whitening

One option for whitening teeth is with in-office bleaching. This method begins with identifying the current color of your teeth using a professional shade guide. Dr. Oza then places a special barrier on your gums for protection. 3-4 applications of a professional strength bleaching solution are then applied, with each application taking about 8 minutes. The total appointment time takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. If you desire an even lighter shade, you can return for more visits to reach the correct shade. We also make custom whitening trays after your visit for you to take home and maintain that bright smile.

At-Home Professional Whitening

Another choice for whitening teeth is with take-home bleaching trays. This option is just as effective as an in-office system, but it is more gradual and uses a weaker strength of the bleaching chemical. We make custom trays for you, which you then use to apply the bleach to your teeth at home. With this method, we evaluate the current color of your teeth and make a mold of them. The molds are then used to create the custom bleaching trays. At your second appointment, we give you the trays to take home and go over the bleaching instructions.

Once brushing and flossing are done at home, you will apply a bead of the bleaching gel to the inside of the trays. The trays are then placed in the mouth and worn for one-hour minimum. Eating or drinking are to be avoided while the trays are being worn. After removing the trays, you should brush your teeth again and clean the trays with water.
The trays should be worn every night or every other night for 6-8 weeks for the best results.

Is Tooth Whitening a Permanent Solution?

Unfortunately, as soon as you begin drinking coffee, red wine, tea, or eat berries, your teeth will begin to stain again. With aging, teeth slowly darken over time. However, bleaching your teeth at a regular interval at home will maintain that initial whitened shade.

How Safe is Bleaching?

Bleaching products are very safe. Today’s professional bleaching products have an anti-sensitivity agent within them to reduce sensitivity. However, some people are more sensitive to bleach than others. If sensitivity does occur, it is short-term and can be dealt with easily. Using toothpaste specifically made for sensitive teeth a few weeks before bleaching can significantly lower sensitivity. It is best to continue using the toothpaste throughout the bleaching process and for a few weeks afterwards.

Make an Appointment Today

Before doing any tooth whitening, we always recommend a professional dental cleaning. This will ensure all plaque and tartar are removed and will provide a clean surface for the bleach, allowing the best possible results from tooth whitening.

The team at Prestige Dentistry is here to help you smile confidently. If you are unhappy with the brightness of your smile, please give us a call today to schedule an evaluation!