Do you wish you had whiter teeth? Thanks to new materials and
technology, you can have a whiter, brighter smile!
Ever notice how some people can practically
light up a room with their bright, beautiful smiles? A natural-looking,
sparkling white smile can be yours with a safe, painless and
effective professional tooth-whitening procedure - and a little
help from us!
Tooth whitening is a bleaching process that
reverses discolorations of enamel (the outside layer of tooth
structure) to create a whiter, brighter appearance. No natural
tooth structure is lost, and no anesthetic is required.
We're glad to help you determine if you're
a good candidate. First, for your safety, we need to check the
strength and condition of your teeth through an exam and x-rays.
Then, before recommending tooth whitening
for you, we need to diagnose the exact cause of your tooth discoloration.
A number of factors can contribute to discoloration, including:
- Tetracycline (antibiotic) staining
- Excessive fluoride
- Trauma (injury) to the teeth
- Pulp (nerve) degeneration
- Restorative materials (silver, gold)
- Genetic and acquired illnesses
- Aging
- Use of staining substances, such as coffee,
tea or tobacco
Depending upon your unique situation, we may offer one of
two different types of tooth-whitening systems: in-office (active)
or at home use (passive) under our professional supervision.
Sometimes we recommend a combination of both to give you the
best results in the least amount of time. Regardless of which
type of system is best for you, it's important that you follow
our professional recommendations. We want to be sure you receive
the best and safest treatment available.
This procedure is done in a series of appointments (usually
three to five) until the desired effect is achieved. During the
visits, we take a number of steps:
- 1. Apply lubricant to your gums.
- 2. Place a protective material (dental dam) around the necks
of your teeth to shield your gums, tongue and lips.
- 3. Clean your teeth to remove excess lubricant.
- 4. Apply conditioner to your teeth, then rinse and dry them.
- 5. Apply the whitening solution to the teeth, and leave it
on for a period of time.
- 6. Rinse and polish your teeth.
This procedure involves wearing a custom-fitted appliance
containing tooth-whitening solution. You must wear this appliance
for a period of days or weeks as we prescribe for your situation.
In many cases, nighttime application alone is sufficient to achieve
the results you desire. When undergoing the passive tooth-whitening
program, you must return to the office periodically. These appointments
ensure that the whitening system is working effectively and that
your teeth and gums remain healthy.
To stay whiter and brighter, your teeth may require periodic
touch ups requiring that you wear your appliance with the whitening
solution for a few days to a week. Please call us to discuss
your needs, and we'll be happy to advise you.
Some patientsÍ teeth exhibit a chalky appearance for
a short time, due to a slight dehydration caused by the tooth-whitening
solution. Occasionally, patients experience mild sensitivity
to cold food and beverages for a day or two following the procedure.
Above: Before
Below: After
Whiter teeth can make a nice smile spectacular!
Above: Before
Below: After
Tooth whitening can erase those coffee, tea or tobacco
stains.
Advances in dentistry have made it easier than ever to help
you get the whiter, brighter smile youÍve always wanted.
To maintain this bright new appearance, we suggest that you avoid
enamel-staining substances such as coffee, tea and tobacco products
for several days following the procedure.
If you have any further questions about tooth whitening, please
ask us! Those patients in our practice who have undergone cosmetic
dental whitening treatment not only have acquired a more pleasing
smile, but have experienced enhanced self-esteem and self-confidence.
You can, too!
