What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening involves wearing a thin, transparent plastic tray molded to your teeth, which is used to hold a whitening agent in contact with the tooth surface.
The active agent in the bleach is usually carbamide peroxide. This chemical quickly breaks down into urea and 7% hydrogen peroxide. It is the hydrogen peroxide that lightens the teeth.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening may be a good option for patients with healthy teeth and gums who want to brighten stains caused by aging, coffee, tea, wine, tobacco, or everyday foods and drinks.
Whitening does not change the color of crowns, veneers, fillings, or some types of internal tooth discoloration. Your dentist can examine your smile and help determine whether whitening is likely to give you an even result.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Professional teeth whitening is generally considered safe when used as directed under dental supervision. Some patients may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation.
Dentists know the whitening process should not be abused, because repeated bleaching beyond the recommended level can damage enamel.
Minor complications are uncommon, but may include slight gum irritation and increased cold sensitivity in the enamel.
Before whitening, it is a good idea to ask your dentist whether your teeth are likely to bleach evenly. Whitening will not change certain types of discoloration caused by antibiotic use during childhood.
The Tray & Solution
The difference is the custom-fitted tray. At your first visit, your dentist takes models of your teeth. These trays are made specifically for your mouth and will not fit anyone else.
They are made of a very thin, clear plastic material.
Our whitening solution contains 16% carbamide peroxide, which bleaches the tooth enamel. It is a sticky, clear gel that is gentle, safe, and easy to use.
Your dentist will provide instructions for using the whitening gel safely and effectively.
The Procedure
Your dentist will give you a kit including the custom mouthpiece, whitening material, and instructions. You load the whitening gel into the trays and wear them on your teeth daily.
A common treatment plan is to wear the mouthpiece for two-hour sessions, once a day, for 14 days.
Your dentist may schedule a follow-up visit to check your progress.
The Pros
- This is one of the most proven and effective whitening methods
- Designed for safe, dentist-supervised use when instructions are followed
- Affordable and practical for most people
- Easy to fit into your daily routine
- You can choose the time that works best, such as during a commute or while watching TV
The Cons
- Teeth may become sensitive during treatment
- Some people may experience soft tissue irritation
- Irritation can come from a tray that does not fit properly
- Irritation can also happen if solution touches the soft tissues
If side effects become bothersome, talk with your dentist.
What Results Can You Expect?
Teeth whitening results vary from person to person. Many patients see a brighter smile, but the final shade depends on the type of staining, the natural color of your teeth, and how closely the whitening instructions are followed.
Your dentist can evaluate your teeth before treatment and help you understand what kind of results may be realistic for your smile.
Questions & Answers
How long does teeth whitening last?
Whitening results can last for months or longer, depending on your diet, oral hygiene, tobacco use, and normal tooth aging. Touch-up whitening may be recommended over time to help maintain your results.
Are whitening toothpastes very effective?
No. The active ingredients in whitening toothpastes are present in much lower concentrations than those in professional whitening kits, and they are quickly washed off the tooth surface by saliva.
Teeth Whitening and Payment Options
The cost of teeth whitening can vary depending on the whitening system, your starting shade, and your treatment goals.
Greenberg Dental & Orthodontics offers payment options and can help you understand whether whitening is a good choice before you begin treatment.
Helpful Patient Resources
Want a Brighter Smile?
Professional teeth whitening trays can help brighten stained or discolored teeth with guidance from your dentist.
Schedule a visit at one of our Florida locations to find out whether teeth whitening is right for your smile.