Teeth Whitening
Actual patient of Dr. Epstein
Tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment 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.
Tooth whitening is not permanent. A touch-up maybe needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.
Reasons for tooth whitening:
- Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).
- Normal wear of outer tooth layer.
- Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.).
- Yellow, brown stained teeth.
What does tooth whitening involve?
Dr. Epstein offers three different types of whitening procedures, depending on your desires and the natural color of your teeth. Regardless of which procedure you choose, Dr. Epstein dispenses a high fluoride toothpaste to minimize tooth sensitivity that is to be used 7 to 10 days prior to, during and after whitening.
1) Take home whitening
This type of tooth whitening usually requires two visits. At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic, trays.
At your 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. Dr. Epstein dispenses a high fluoride toothpaste to minimize tooth sensitivity that is to be used 7 to 10 days prior to, during and after whitening. Some people do experience tooth sensitivity during whitening teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.
2) Boost In-office whitening
This type of tooth whitening is a single 1 1/2 hour visit in the office. After this visit you will see your teeth get 7-8 shades lighter instantly. We provide you with the trays as well, so you can touch up your pearly whites on an ongoing basis. Usually this only requires 1-2 days per month to maintain your smile.
3) Deep Bleaching
This process was developed by a dentist for people with brown or gray teeth. This involves 3 visits. The first visit we will take impressions of your teeth to fabricate your custom trays. The second visit you will come in for a 20 minute in- office procedure in which a special formula will be delivered with your trays. After you will whiten at home for 14 days and return for another 20 minute in-office procedure. The results are DRAMATIC! If you were ever told that your gray or brown teeth could not get any whiter, this procedure is definitely for you!
