There are a few tooth whitening procedures available that correct
discoloration of the tooth by removing the brown and yellow staining. While each work
effectively, there are advantages and disadvantages to each procedure dependent upon your
objectives and commitment to the processes. The type of procedures available should be
discussed with your dentist, and a they will recommend the most appropriate tooth
whitening procedure for you.
Laser Bleaching (In-Office)
Using a laser with a whitening gel, this is an
in-office bleaching system. The translucent bleaching gel is applied to the tooth
and a laser light is used to activate the crystals to absorb the energy from the light and
penetrate the tooth enamel to increase the lightening effect on the tooth. The length of
time in the dentist's chair depends on the degree of discoloration you have.
Tooth Bleaching (In-Office)
A small amount of the bleaching abrasive is
applied to the tooth. This is the most common technique because it costs less, but is most
effective for mildly stained teeth. This procedure is sometimes used in conjunction with
the in-office laser bleaching if you have severe discoloration (dark gray or purple) or
internal tooth staining.
Dental Veneers (In-Office)
Often an alternative to crowns, veneers are very thin
pieces of specially-shaped porcelain or plastic that are glued over the front of your
teeth with little or no anesthesia needed. They are the cure for teeth that are severely
discolored, chipped, have small holes or pits, misshapen or crooked, or for the correction
of unwanted or uneven spaces. Unlike crowns, veneers won't require the dentist to remove
much of the tooth itself. Veneers are created from an impression taken in your
dentist's office. Your custom veneer is then glued directly onto your tooth. Typically
costing less than crowns, veneers won't stain, making veneers a very popular solution for
many people seeking that perfect smile. Strong and very durable, veneers last from ten to
fifteen years, and come in colors that will brighten dark teeth without the worry of them
changing color.
Store-Bought Whitening Strips (In-Home)
A whitening strip is fitted over your
upper and lower teeth.
You'll wear them for a half hour to one hour once a day depending on the
brand. This is the most common technique because it's easy to use and costs less.
The strips are comfortable and have no trouble staying in place.
Speaking is slightly awkward while wearing them. While some results may be seen in a
couple days, it usually takes one week for the faster strips to one
month for the slower systems for you to see the full whitening of your teeth.
This procedure is sometimes used in conjunction with the in-office laser bleaching if you
have severe discoloration (dark grey or purple) or internal teeth staining.
In-Mall Whitening Stores or Stands (In-Store)
This is a newer whitening
option but is basically the same as the in-home kits. A custom fitted tray
or strips are worn over your teeth.
While some results may be seen right away, it is usually recommended
that you return to the treatment center weekly to achieve the full whitening of your teeth.
Next: Costs to whiten a tooth
- Introduction to tooth whitening
- How much can a tooth be whitened?
- What causes a tooth to become discolored?
- Procedure description: cosmetic tooth whitening (bleaching)
- What types of tooth whitening are there?
- How much does tooth whitening cost?
- What are the pros and cons of the procedure?
- Before and after photos - tooth whitening
- Personal stories from bleaching patients
- Discuss tooth whitening on the dentistry Message
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