Overview of Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is used to correct discoloration of the
teeth by removing the brown and yellow staining. The term "teeth whitening" can
refer to a number of techniques to improve the brightness of the patient's teeth. Among
them are chemical whitening, mild acid whitening, abrasive teeth brightening and the
newest technique, laser teeth whitening.
Teeth Bleaching
Teeth bleaching is chemical process used to lighten the
color of the patient's teeth. The procedure can be performed entirely in the cosmetic
dentist's office or it can be performed by the patient in their home, using a materials
provided by the dentist. The home method is often used because it saves the patient from
having to make an office visit for each treatment.
Before the patient embarks on the home teeth whitening
regimen, the cosmetic dentist creates a custom mouth tray for the patient. The custom tray
is a critical component of the treatment. It ensures that the correct amount of whitening
solution is used and that the patient's teeth are properly exposed to the whitening
solution. The custom made mouth tray provides for a better fit than a one-size-fits-all
mouth tray to help increase the margin of patient safety.
The steps in the home teeth whitening regimen are
fairly straightforward. The dentist's office provides the patient with the
materials and instructions and also answers questions the patient may have about the
routine. Your dentist's office can also provide you with off-site supervision should you
have any questions once you've begun.
A home whitening session can last for two to three
hours, during which time you will have the tray and solution in your mouth.
Depending upon your needs and desired results, your dentist may instruct you to keep the
tray in your mouth overnight. Typically, you will follow your home teeth whitening
regimen for two to three weeks, after which time you will return to your dentist
for a follow up visit.
How long does teeth whitening last?
Teeth whitening is not a permanent procedure. Results
can last for one to or more years, depending upon your personal habits. In most cases, the
whitening procedure is very effective and the patient is pleased with the results.
Next: Typical costs of the
whitening procedure
- Introduction to teeth whitening
section
- How white can your teeth become?
- What causes your teeth to become discolored?
- Procedure description: Teeth whitening
- Typical cost of teeth whitening procedures
- Types of teeth whitening available
- The tray bleaching procedure to
whiten your teeth
- How much does tray teeth bleaching
cost?
- Laser teeth whitening
- How much does laser teeth whitening cost?
- Pros & cons of whitening your teeth
- Before and after photos - teeth whitening
- Personal experiences of teeth whitening patients
- Discuss teeth whitening in our discussion area
  
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