Teeth Whitening/Bleaching

An ever-conscious consumer market has driven demand for the esthetic dentistry forward. Many people are very interested in whitening or bleaching their teeth.

Bleaching can be accomplished by means of two chemical processes. Differing concentrations of products can be used to obtain great results.

Our office uses two different systems for bleaching vital teeth. The first and most convenient system, Crest Whitestripslink points to external site, is made by Crestlink points to external site. This system utilizes bleach impregnated into a moldable strip that is adapted to the teeth. Strips are usually worn up to two times a day for up to 30 minutes each application.

For teeth that have a difficult intrinsic stain, bleaching can more predictably reach a favorable result through overnight tray use. This process requires simple dental impressions to fabricate custom trays for the patient to use to contain and hold the bleach solution to the tooth structure.

Many people are aware of in-office, one-hour bleaching procedures as presented on extreme-makeover television programming. We do not use this form of bleaching because independent research shows poor long-term results. Studies reinforce that the bleaching from in-office treatments with activating lights will relapse to or near pretreatment shade within about one week.

Test Your Whitening IQ

Whitening can lead to loss of healthy teeth.
False. Not one healthy tooth has ever been lost.

Whitening requires a month or more.
False. Excellent results can be obtained in two weeks or less. And, in-office assisted techniques can lighten the shade of your teeth in a single visit.

Whitening can be done with over-the-counter products.
True. However, compared to what's available from your dentist, over-the-counter whitening products are not as effective.

Whitening is permanent.
False. Restaining can occur. Smoking, drinking coffee, tea and soda, eating berry pie, and not brushing or flossing regularly all contribute to tooth staining.

Whitening may contribute to tooth decay.
False. There is no evidence that whitening leads to loss of tooth integrity.

FAQs

What is the difference between over-the-counter Crest Whitestrips and Crest Whitestrips used in your office?
We offer professional-strength Crest Whitestrips, which offers better whitening and longer-lasting results.