Get a bright new smile! Brushing and flossing are everyday ways to keep your teeth bright, white and healthy. Still, you might feel that your smile is lacking sparkle or is more yellow than you would like. We offer professional teeth whitening so that you can be confident that your treatment is safe and effective. We provide convenient at-home and in-office whitening treatments to suit your unique needs.
Why do my teeth change color?
Coffee, tea and red wine and other dark beverages are among the major staining culprits. Tobacco also creates stubborn stains. And age may also cause your teeth to appear darker: Below the hard, white outer shell of your teeth (called enamel) is a softer
layer called dentin. Over time, the outer enamel layer gets thinner with brushing and more of the yellowish dentin shows through. In addition, if your teeth have been traumatized by a hard knock, your teeth may change color because it reacts to an injury by laying down more dentin, which is a darker layer under the enamel, or by changes in the other tissues in the tooth (pulp). Tooth darkening can also be a side effect of certain medications.
At home whitening
At home whitening kits are a convenient way to brighten your smile. We will provide you with a whitening gel and custom designed trays that you put on your teeth at home. We will give you instructions on how to place the whitening solution in the trays and for what length of time. This may be a preferred option if you feel more comfortable whitening in your own home at a slower pace, but still with the our skilled assistance and supervision. At home whitening can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
In office whitening
In office whitening treatment usually takes a single appointment so you can get a brighter smile almost instantly. After we apply a protective gel to your gums, we then apply whitening material to the teeth. This treatment usually takes between one and a half to two hours.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to whiten my teeth?
Yes. Professional whitening treatments are safe if they are administered by a trained professional using approved treatments.
How long will my teeth stay white?
Professional whitening might last up to a one year, or even more. The actual time can vary depending on your dental hygiene habits, diet, whether you smoke, and many other factors. After your whitening treatment, we will evaluate your tooth shade at each subsequent visit to help you determine whether there has been any change in your tooth color during the months and years following tooth whitening.
Can my crown or bridge be whitened?
Whitening treatments are formulated to whiten natural tooth enamel, so they won’t have an effect on porcelain or ceramic restorations. But we can help you with other options to change the color of your crowns and other restorations.
I have sensitive teeth; can they be whitened?
Most professional whitening treatments are safe or can be modified for patients with sensitive teeth. Before your tooth whitening treatment, we will give you directions to help minimize any tooth sensitivity.
Does Whitening work on all teeth?
No. It is important to talk to us before deciding to whiten your teeth, because whitening may not correct all types of discoloration. For example, yellow teeth will more likely whiten well, while brown teeth and teeth with gray tones may not respond as well. Whitening will not brighten crowns, veneers or filings. It also may not be as effective if your tooth discoloration is caused by medications or a tooth injury.
