Teeth Whitening

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Whitening is probably one of the most exciting developments in the history of dentistry. It has provided patients with a simple and fast way to achieve lighter teeth. This has improved patients' self-esteem and given them a healthier appearance. Teeth are the most noticeable part of the face during conversation other than the eyes. The sound of our voice draws attention to our mouth when we speak.

Teeth whitening is effective on 99% of patients. There are situations when the whitening gels have no effect. Best results are achieved on patients with a yellowish tone to their teeth. Patients with multiple bands of color, tetracycline stain, or grey tones have limited results.

Each patient's final result will vary, this is similar to sun tanning. There is not complete predictability with the end color. Bright white is not a common end point goal, but a few shades lighter than the starting point is reasonable. A shade guide is used in the dental office to track the results.

Teeth whitening is a painless procedure that utilizes a chemical reaction to lighten dark, stained teeth. There are three main types of bleaching systems. The first one is a take-home system and the other two are completed within the dental office.

1. Home Whitening Numerous studies have been completed that prove home whitening to be exceptionally safe when instructions are adhered to at all times.

Home whitening is the least expensive and probably the safest method of whitening your smile. It is achieved through the use of soft customized trays made of clear acrylic plastics. These trays are made to fit snuggly around each individual tooth. There is a tray for both the upper and lower arch.

The first step is to brush and floss the teeth. The patient then places a special whitening gel into each tray and places the tray over the teeth. Directions are given for Day whitening solutions or Night whitening solutions. If sensitivity is noticed, the patient can immediately remove the trays and rinse with water.

Teeth can become stained again due to personal habits such as smoking or drinking red wine, Coke, etc. It is up to the patient to monitor the colour and whiten as required. The original trays can be re-used and additional vials of whitening solution can be acquired for a nominal fee.

2. Zoom Whitening Power bleaching is accomplished through the careful application of a much stronger whitening solution to the teeth under close supervision of the dentist. Due to the concentration of the applied material, results can be seen within one to three hours. The process may require an additional session, as patient's results will vary.

3. Laser Whitening Laser whitening is similar to power bleaching but a specialized laser light is used to activate the whitening solution. Results can be seen within one hour.