Whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is a great way to enhance the beauty of your smile.
Having whiter teeth has now become the #1 aesthetic concern of patients, so manufacturers of tooth-whitening treatments have created multiple products and processes to achieve the desired results for all. The most popular methods are home-systems that will whiten teeth dramatically. Since whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, your dentist must evaluate the need to replace old fillings, crowns, etc. Such replacements, if necessary, will be done after bleaching so their color matches the newly bleached teeth.
Watch this video to learn more about the process.
Tooth whitening is not permanent. A touch-up maybe needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.
Reasons for whitening:
- Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).
- Normal wear of outer tooth layer.
- Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.).
- Yellow, brown stained teeth.
What does whitening involve?
Tooth whitening usually requires two visits. At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic, trays. At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary.
The trays are worn with special whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level you wish to lighten your teeth. It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped treatment.
Dental Care on Golf Links will give you care instructions for your teeth and trays, and will encourage you to visit us regularly to help maintain a beautifully white smile.