What is teeth whitening?
What options do I have for whitening?
The most effective teeth whitening techniques available today are in-office teeth whitening and at-home teeth whitening with either custom-fit trays or pre-formed trays. These teeth whitening techniques are best performed under supervision to ensure the safest results.
What does in-office whitening involve?
In-office teeth whitening methods are performed with a whitening gel. This is a good method of teeth whitening for sensitive teeth, as the process may be closely monitored by our staff. The teeth are carefully isolated from the lips, cheeks, and gums, and then the whitening gel is applied to the teeth. We use Opalescence Xtra Boost with Sensitivity Protection (35% solution) by Ultradent for the in-office teeth whitening and is considered one of the top brands of in-office or laser whitening. We also are featuring a new product, Quick White, a 47% solution, by Ultradent. This process is shorter and can be used alone or in conjunction with Xtra Boost. It can also be used to maintain already whitened teeth.
What is at-home whitening?
There are several choices for at-home teeth whitening. We take molds (imprints or impressions) of your teeth and fabricate custom trays for you to take home to complete the teeth whitening process. We recommend Discuss Dental’s Nite White 22% solution. It is a 3 week process that is done at home every day for 1 hour.
The concentration of the whitening gel used in the custom trays can cause sensitivity, primarily to the gums. Because of this, teeth whitening for sensitive teeth may best be performed in-office.
We also recommend the pre-formed teeth whitening kits, Tres White by Ultradent, to assist you in brightening your smile. This product is a 10 day pack that is used for 30-60 minutes of per day. These products can be used for both initial whitening or for maintenance whitening.