Tooth Whitening There are two ways patients can choose to bleach their teeth:  home or office bleaching.  Home bleaching involves the fabrication of plastic mouthpieces that look like protective sport mouth guards.  The patient then must wear these mouthpieces with a hydrogen peroxide based bleach for two to four hours a day for four to eight days. Office bleaching is much simpler for patients though a little more expensive.  Patients typically come in for one  thirty to forty-five minute appointments depending upon the amount of color change desired.

There are no shots or drilling. Patients will commonly relax  to watching TV and listening to music during the procedure.  Color changes are readily apparent after the first visit.  We nearly always use this technique in our office because of the fabulous results and patient convenience.  We've been doing this procedure  for several years and have found it to be both safe and effective.

Only natural tooth structure responds to bleaching. Fillings  and porcelain will NOT bleach.  Patients need to consider this before bleaching because significantly whiter teeth may cause your old porcelain and/or bonding to look fairly yellow.

Post Bleaching Instructions

It is common for teeth to be sensitive for a few days following office bleaching. Patients may describe this sensitivity as a momentary tingling or stinging sensation. This is a common post operative symptom that usually resolves within a few days. Refer to the section on Post Operative Instructions for Patients Following Dental Procedures regarding the use of pain medication if necessary.

Use a Fluoride mouthwash, several times a day for the week  following the bleaching. Avoid tobacco, coffee, tea and dark colored sodas and staining types of foods. If you must indulge, drink a glass of water immediately afterwards to minimize the staining effects.