Tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.
Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth. We offer in office ZOOM whitening. The in office method takes an hour and a half. With the in office whitening, we make custom whitening trays at no extra charge for you to take home so you can touch up your smile as needed. For those who don’t want an in office procedure but who want the same dramatic results of in office whitening, we can make custom whitening trays and supply you with prescription strength whitening gel. This method takes 2 weeks of 30 minutes per day. Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.
Tooth whitening is not permanent. A touch-up maybe needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.
Patient Reviews
I have been living for my entire adult life with unattractive teeth. I heard about Dr. DellAcqua and her cosmetic dentistry magic. I wanted to fix my smile in time for my 60th birthday celebration. I met her and really trusted her to make me look natural and not artificial. Well, she did it! I wish I would have done it sooner. I feel and look younger and I am finally proud to smile.
Reasons for tooth whitening:
- Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).
- Normal wear of outer tooth layer.
What does tooth whitening involve?
The in-office procedure requires the use of a bite block to hold the mouth open while the gums and lips are covered to protect them from the special light that is used to activate the whitening gel. The gel is then applied to the teeth and the light is turned on to activate the gel. The gel is removed and reapplied for a total of three , 15 minute cycles. Once the whitening process is completed, a fluoride relief gel is placed on the teeth to help decrease any sensitivity that you may have.
Take home whitening 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 of whitening. It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.
You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.
