Tooth Whitening

Everybody loves a bright white smile, and there are a variety of products and procedures available to help you improve the look of yours.

At Home Bleaching

Over-the-counter take-home bleaching products are available in many stores and they will work for you. Studies have shown that the Crest Whitestrips are the most effective of the over-the-counter methods.

Custom made bleaching trays can be made for you. A mold of your teeth is taken in the dental office and in two to three days custom trays are completed. They contain a reservoir to hold the bleaching solution with minimal waste. The trays can be used for a number of years.

The bleaching material our office gives to you is carbamide peroxide. Unlike hydrogen peroxide, which is harmful if ingested, carbamide peroxide has proved to be superior in study after study. Carbamide peroxide from the dental office is in prescription strengths that can vary in strength. We use a 15-18% solution, which is very effective in whitening. Usually 1-2 hours of bleaching for 2 weeks lightens teeth 1-2 shades for a result you will be happy with. For most people the whitening lasts for 1-2 years. The same trays can be used for future whitening regimines. Rarely the bleaching solution causes sensitivity to teeth. The sensivitivity is usually temporary and goes away when the bleaching is stopped.

Whitening toothpastes help remove surface stain through the action of mild abrasives. "Whitening" toothpastes in the ADA Seal of Acceptance program have special chemical or polishing agents that provide additional stain removal effectiveness. Unlike bleaches, these ADA Accepted products do not alter the intrinsic color of teeth.