Teeth Whitening

Professional Teeth-Whitening Overview

Chairside teeth whitening and power bleaching are other terms used to refer to in-office teeth-whitening treatments. Since these treatments are carefully performed by our dentists, you can achieve dramatic whitening results safely and quickly. Our professional-grade whitening gel can help you achieve a dazzling smile in as little as one treatment.

The best candidates for teeth whitening have healthy teeth and gum tissues, and teeth that are discolored or yellowed from using tobacco or drinking dark-colored beverages (coffee, tea, cola, and wine) typically respond best to the whitening process. Stains that occur deep within the structure of the tooth are usually resistant to whitening procedures. Examples include stains caused by exposure to too much fluoride, use of tetracycline antibiotics, defective fillings, or tooth decay. Additionally, bleaching materials will not whiten any type of restoration material, including fillings, veneers, bridges, and crowns.

Before beginning any whitening treatment, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to determine if you have any existing dental issues. If you’re not a candidate for traditional whitening, we’ll work with you to design a customized treatment plan that best meets your dental needs.

What Is Teeth Whitening at Home?

Our at-home teeth whitening kits are a popular alternative that’s offered in addition to in-office treatments. If you choose this treatment option, we’ll take a mold of your upper and lower teeth to create custom-fit whitening trays that fit your mouth precisely. The whitening trays are similar in appearance to a sports mouth guard, and you’ll fill the trays with our professional-strength whitening gel. To help you achieve the best possible results, you’ll receive instructions on how to properly use the trays and dispense the whitening solution. When worn for about an hour every day, it’s possible to whiten your teeth by six shades.

What Is the Price of Teeth Whitening?

The type of whitening treatment you receive is one of the biggest factors when it comes to how much you pay for teeth whitening. At-home whitening kits typically cost less than an in-office treatment. Other factors can also contribute to total costs, such as the level of your tooth discoloration, the total number of treatments you require, and whether any follow-up treatments are needed.

Since whitening treatments are considered a cosmetic treatment, they’re typically not covered by insurance. We encourage you to contact us to schedule a consultation so you can learn more about the teeth-bleaching cost. After discussing your unique needs and examining your mouth, we can give you an estimate of your expected costs.

Professional vs. DIY Teeth-Whitening Products: Which Should I Choose?

In comparison to professional whitening treatments, do-it-yourself whitening products don’t work as reliably, as comfortably, or as quickly. These types of products, including whitening trays and strips, toothpastes, and rinses can provide some improvement in the color of your teeth, but the concentration of whitening ingredients is relatively low. For this reason, it can take several applications before you see any type of improvement. DIY whitening products also come with some degree of risk. If the instructions aren’t followed carefully, it’s possible to experience inconsistent whitening or even damage and irritation to your teeth and gums.

In-office whitening treatments are performed by an experienced teeth-bleaching dentist, helping you achieve reliable and safe bleaching results and eliminating the risks associated with user error. Our dentists also use a powerful whitening gel, so you can obtain dramatic and immediate results.

How Is Teeth Whitening Performed?

The procedural steps for an in-office teeth-whitening treatment are based on the particular system used by your dentist. These steps describe a standard procedure offered by a teeth-bleaching dentist:

1. To prepare your teeth for whitening, they are first cleaned and then examined by your dentist.
2. Photos of your teeth may be taken to help monitor progress.
3. A cheek retractor is inserted to expose all visible teeth and keep your mouth open.
4. A protective liquid is applied to your gums to prevent irritation.
5. Your dentist applies the whitening gel to your teeth; several coatings may be applied and each application is left on for a specific amount of time.
6. The bleaching gel may be activated by an intense light.
7. Once you’ve received the last application of whitening gel, the cheek retractor is removed, and the color changes are evaluated. Your dentist will determine if follow-up visits or an at-home treatment is needed.

Are you thinking about revitalizing your smile with teeth whitening? Call us today at (443) 898-1240 or book an appointment online.