Teeth Whitening

There are many products and techniques available for patients who want to achieve a brighter smile. The best way to begin any teeth-whitening regimen is to schedule an appointment and talk to your doctor to choose the method that is right for you.

At-Home Teeth Whitening

• Tray Whitening

Tray bleaching is a type of professional whitening that uses trays and whitening gel only available through your dentist. The whitening gel is placed in custom-fitted trays that fit perfectly over your teeth. As the peroxide in the gel breaks down, hydroxy-radicals help whiten stained teeth. Unlike strips, this process whitens all your natural teeth and contains ingredients intended to minimize tooth sensitivity. At-home custom tray whitening generally takes ten to 14 days, although you may notice results in as little as three to five days. You can keep these trays and use them again for touch-up whitening.

We also offer tooth whitening using disposable trays.  The disposable trays are good for patients who need touch-up whitening, and is a less expensive option than custom-made bleaching trays. 

• Teeth-Whitening Strips

Teeth-whitening strips are thin, flexible plastic (polyethylene) strips with a thin film of hydrogen peroxide on one side. Whitening strip kits come with two types of strips: strips for the upper teeth and strips for the lower teeth. The whitening agent is applied by placing the strips across your teeth and gently pressing the strips to ensure contact with all your teeth. Teeth-whitening strips are typically worn for 30 minutes a day, twice a day. The duration of treatment will vary.

• Whitening Toothpaste and Mouthwash

The least expensive options are whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes. Designed to have “whitening” capabilities, toothpastes and mouthwashes work to remove surface stains using mild abrasives. However, unlike the materials used in professional whitening procedures, these products do not lighten the actual color shade of the tooth. Whitening toothpastes affect surface stains and will mildly lighten your teeth.

If you would like to learn more about teeth whitening, please contact our practice to schedule an appointment.