Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening can make your teeth sparkle, but it can also damage them. So think carefully before you try one of the numerous whitening options on the market.

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth 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.

How does teeth whitening work?

Most products contain peroxide(s) which help remove deep stains from within the tooth by penetrating into the pores in your tooth enamel. The strength or “percentage” of peroxide used in any product varies from 10% to 44%. The higher percentages generally offer faster results but have a greater risk of side effects.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe

If you’re thinking about getting your teeth whitened, you might be wondering if it’s safe. And this is a reasonable question! While most cases of teeth whitening are totally safe, there are some risks and side effects you should know about before you get started.

The first thing to know is that your teeth will be more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures for up to 36 hours after the procedure. Your teeth could also become sensitive to sweet foods and drinks for up to 48 hours after the procedure.

The second thing to ask yourself is: how long does it last? The answer depends on how well you take care of your teeth after the procedure. You can expect the results of your treatment to last one to three years.