Teeth Whitening

 

Tooth Whitening

  Tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental procedure 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.  Island Dental also does chairside whitening which takes approximately 2 hours and instantly whitens your teeth. 

  Tooth whitening is not permanent.  A touch-up may be needed every several years, and more often if you smoke or drink coffee, tea or wine.

What does tooth whitening involve?

  In our office we offer two types of whitening:  In-office (chair-side) and take-home whitening. The take-home whitening usually requires two visits.  First the impressions will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic trays.  At the 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.

  The in-office whitening usually requires one visit where we use stronger agents.  The result is equivalent to two or three weeks of take-home whitening in one or two hours.

  You will receive home-care instructions for your teeth and trays, and will be encouraged to visit our office regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy and white smile.