The confidence that comes with a set of white teeth and a reinvigorated smile can have a lasting positive benefit in many facets of a patient’s life. While take-home teeth whitening kits exist and have also enjoyed a wave of popularity, the Centers for Dental Implants recommends you consider the professional approach.
Unlike home systems that use low-dose bleaching agents, our office only uses higher concentration professional products. The procedure is also overseen by professionals and under carefully controlled conditions.
The advantages to the in-office approach are several fold:
Faster results
Safest form of bleach in a professional setting
Reduced gum and tooth sensitivity thanks to the use of thicker peroxide gels and potassium nitrate and fluoride that act as tooth desensitization agents
In-office chairside treatments are also best at removing what’s known as “organic” stains and discoloration attributed to aging, diet (coffee, red wine and sodas being the biggest offenders) and tobacco use. It’s important to note, however, that inorganic stains are harder to remove. Fluorosis, an over exposure to fluoride, which causes tooth discoloration, is one example where teeth whitening may not achieve the desired effect.
After a standard cleaning your teeth will be checked for damage and cavities. This is to ensure your teeth are in good health to be bleached. Photos will also be taken and the color of your teeth will be measured on a color shade guide. This will ensure the degree of whiteness you are looking to achieve.
Next, a cheek retractor is inserted into the mouth. Then, a liquid hardening resin covers the gums to prevent irritation from the bleaching agent. The bleaching gel (containing hydrogen peroxide) is applied to the smile zone of your teeth and allowed to sit for approximately 15-30 minutes.
After 30 minutes this “first coat” is removed. Then, a second coat is applied also for 15-30 minutes.
In most cases patients report that after the new natural color comes out after a few days their teeth have whitened by as much as two to three shades out of a 16-point scale. Some patients report an 8-shade improvement.
If you’re interested in an in-office teeth whitening procedure contact The Centers for Dental Implants today and schedule your appointment. The white, bright, radiant smile of your dreams is only a phone call away.
