Dental Topics

Bad Breath

Bonding/Veneers

Crowns/Inlays/Onlays

Invisible Fillings

Teeth Whitening

Teeth Whitening

The range of esthetic dentistry also includes teeth whitening which is sometimes referred to as bleaching. Some patients are dissatisfied with the color of their teeth, perhaps from staining caused by the use of tobacco, coffee and other beverages and foods. Discoloration also can be the result of aging, injury, excessive fluoride, certain illnesses and use of tetracycline, an antibiotic, in early childhood. Whitening can remove many discolorations and stains, but some are harder to remove than others.

The procedure takes from 30 minutes to one hour in our dental office, and teeth can become slightly sensitive just after the treatment. Whitening features a chemical solution that is painted on the teeth, and a special light often is used at five-minute intervals to help activate the solution, which is an oxidizing agent.

Patients also can have their teeth whitened at home in a procedure called nightguard whitening. This approach involves a custom-fitted mouth guard that holds a whitening gel in close contact with the teeth and is worn about two hours daily, day or night, for about two weeks, although the amount of time and the duration of the treatment can vary depending on individual needs.

The American Dental Association does not recommend over-the-counter teeth whitening products that are self-administered. Although such products may cost less, whitening should be done only under the supervision of a dentist after an oral examination and diagnosis of the discolored teeth. Some people with certain dental conditions may not be good candidates for whitening, such as patients with gum recession that has left sensitive tooth roots exposed.