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. The most popular method is using a home tooth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically. 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 year or so, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea or wine.
Reasons For Tooth Whitening:
- Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).
- Normal wear of outer tooth layer.
- Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.).
- Yellow, brown stained teeth.
What Does Take-Home Tooth Whitening Involve?
This type of tooth whitening usually 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.
What Does In-Office Tooth Whitening Involve?
Dr. Norton utilizes the very latest techniques with in-office tooth whitening systems. In most cases, an in-office session can make your teeth dramatically whiter, sometimes as much as eight shades, in just over an hour.
How long the results will last is difficult to predict. Some patients may need periodic touch-ups every few months while others get a sustained effect for years. Whenever you want a touch-up, you can have periodic re-treatments done at the office, or we can provide custom-fabricated trays for your use at home. You can do this touch-up teeth whitening whenever you see the need, and in the comfort of your home.
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