Teeth Whitening

Remarkable Technique, Remarkable Smile

Supervised, Safe & Simple

People often underestimate how great it feels to have a bright, healthy smile and shining teeth. Besides, this kind of smile doesn't come naturally to everyone. Fortunately, though, there's an effective and safe means of achieving this is through dentist-supervised tooth whitening. Tooth whitening can lighten your teeth color, with one treatment lasting as long as 5 years. As far as safety, several recent studies have proven whitening both safe and effective; several of the required products have also received The American Dental Association's seal of approval. Occasionally, patients may notice slight gum irritation or tooth sensitivity during the process, but such side effects are resolved when the treatment is over.

Considerations, Cautions & Candidates

First, Dr. Weygandt will want to discuss with you how teeth whitening might impact your particular situation, as well as the specific whitening system that would best suit your needs. Some people are simply better candidates than others for a successful whitening treatment. For example, yellow, brownish or orange-tinged teeth resulting from age, coffee, tea, or smoking, usually respond very satisfactorily to teeth whitening--about 90 percent of patients find this to be the case. However, dark gray tones from fluorosis, smoking, or tetracycline use may render whitening results less dramatic. Plus, whitening does not lighten artificial materials such as resins, silicants or porcelains. Finally, sensitive teeth, teeth with periodontal disease, and teeth with worn enamel typically do not whiten well.

Methods, Materials & Miracles

A variety of whitening methods are available. One of our favorites actually utilizes a photoactive material, allowing us to 'jump start' the procedure for a more pronounced result. This can be done in only one session.

Other patients opt for dentist-supervised at-home whitening. This process requires a few separate steps. First, Dr. Weygandt or one of our hygienists will make impressions of your teeth, from which we'll fabricate a comfortable, lightweight, customized whitening tray appliance. These trays are thin and comfortable enough to be worn night or day, during conversation, working, sleeping, etc. Upon receipt of the trays and usage instructions, you'll also be provided with the proper whitening materials and a list of recommended whitening session lengths. Typically, a system including two to four 'treatment' hours per day requires three to six weeks to complete; those including nighttime wear may be completed within 10 to 14 days.

Although it's not possible to predict precisely how light your teeth will be, you'll typically see a two-shade improvement as indicated on Dr. Weygandt's shade guide. And your new, brighter smile will be preserved the longest by eliminating such habits as smoking, drinking coffee, and drinking tea. After one to five years, should you notice that the new color has become less bright, you may choose to have a touch-up. The second procedure is usually less costly than the first, as the original whitening trays may often be reused. Second treatments generally require less treatment time, as well.

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