Bleaching
What is Home Bleaching?
Home bleaching involves wearing a thin, transparent plastic tray molded to your teeth, which is used to hold a bleaching agent in contact with the tooth surface.
The active agent in the bleach is usually carbamide peroxide. This is a chemical which quickly breaks down to urea and 7% hydrogen peroxide. It is the hydrogen peroxide that lightens the teeth.
Is Home Bleaching Safe?
Yes. Hydrogen Peroxide (the whitening agent) is actually produced in the body in small amounts and the effects have been studied for many years. Dentists know that the whitening process should not be abused, because teeth being bleached repeatedly past the recommended level can damage the enamel.
The only minor complications are rare cases of slight gum irritation and heightened cold sensitivty in the enamel. It would also be wise to check first with your regular dentist to see if all your teeth would be likely to bleach evenly. Bleaching will not alter the effects of certain types of antibiotic drug use which may occur during childhood.
The Tray & Solution
The difference is our custom fitted tray. At your first visit to the dentist, we take models of your teeth. These trays are made specifically for your teeth and will not fit anyone else's mouth. They are made of a very thin, clear plastic material.
Our bleaching solution contains 16% carbamide peroxide, which bleaches the tooth enamel. It is a sticky clear gel that is gentle, safe and easy to use. It has a pleasant peppermint taste and carries the ADA seal of approval.
The Procedure
Your dentist will give you a kit including the custom mouth piece, bleaching material, and instructions. Load the bleaching gel in the the trays on a daily basis and proceed to wear the trays on your teeth.
A common treatment plan is to wear the mouth piece for two hour sessions, once a day, for 14 days. The dentist may recall you to check on your progress.
The Pros
This method is the most proven and effective method of bleaching your teeth. It is safe and easy to use, with lasting results. It is affordable and also the most practical for most people. It is easy to stay with the treatments because you can choose the best time to do the treatment each day (such as during a commute, while watching TV, etc.).
The Cons
You may want to speak with your dentist should any side effects become bothersome. For example, teeth can become sensitive during the period when you are using the bleaching solution. Some people experience soft tissue irritation either from a tray that doesn't fit properly or from solution that may come in contact with the tissues.
Our Results are Guaranteed
Experience has shown very few cases have been unsatisfactory. As a matter of fact, we have been quite astounded with the beautiful results we have achieved over the past 10 years.
How long does the bleaching last?
The bleaching is permanent, however teeth can still become dirty and they will continue to age in a normal way with the passage of time.
Are bleaching toothpastes very effective?
No! The active ingredients in bleaching toothpastes are present in much lower concentrations than those in home bleaching kits, and they tend to be immediately washed off the tooth surface by saliva.
