Teeth Whitening
Related Links
- Introduction to General Dentistry
- Preventive Care
- Oral Screening
- Common Conditions
- Restorations (Fillings)
- Teeth Whitening
- Missing Teeth
general dentistry
Having a beautiful smile may be even easier than you think. Many people achieve the look they've been dreaming of with our simple "bleaching" procedure. It's safe, quick, and inexpensive. Just let us know at any appointment if you would like to begin bleaching. You can lighten only your upper teeth or both the upper and lower, depending on how much of each shows when you talk and smile.
Dental bleaching can be used to correct many tooth discolorations. Staining, aging, or chemical damage to teeth may have caused these discolorations. Using the latest in bleaching technology, we can offer a safe method for creating a beautiful smile. In cases of extreme tooth discoloration, crowns or veneers may be the only choice. However, because of the low cost of bleaching treatments, bleaching is nearly always worth a solid try.
Key Benefits
- Corrects brown, yellow and mottled tooth staining.
- Works on people of all ages.
- Is a near permanent solution for a "dull" smile, restoring brightness and bringing a smile alive.
Considerations
Over-the-counter bleaching agents are available at drug stores and pharmacies. However, since these products can harm the gums and teeth, it’s better to use products recommended by your dentist or hygienist.
Take Home Whitening
An impression is taken to make a specialized "mouthguard" or "stent" to hold the bleach against the teeth. In only a day or two your custom bleach splints will be ready for you to pick up. We provide you with a special bleaching agent that you put into the clear, almost invisible splints. With only a few hours of wear per day, our special bleaching agent bubbles stains right out of your enamel in a very short time without altering tooth structure or existing dental work in any way. When your teeth reach the brightness you want, only occasional treatment is needed to maintain your new smile. For confidence in appearance, bleaching technology offers improvements in yellowing, aging or stained teeth. For very severely stained teeth, crowns or veneers may be more appropriate.
In-Office Whitening (Zoom!®)
If you prefer teeth that are immediately whiter right now, Wendel Family Dental Centre has your answer with Zoom! The Zoom! In-Office Whitening System uses proprietary technology to whiten your teeth an average of eight shades* in a little over an hour while you relax at your dentist’s office. It’s ideal for anyone who wants immediate results. Zoom! is a peroxide-based bleaching process with addition of UV light that lightens discoloration of enamel and dentin .
The most common causes of tooth discoloration include aging and consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea or tobacco. During tooth formation, consumption of tetracycline, certain antibiotics or excessive fluoride may also cause tooth discoloration. As with any tooth whitening product, Zoom! is not recommended for children under 13 years of age or women who are pregnant or nursing.
By following some simple post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. We recommend flossing, brushing twice daily, and touch-ups with take-home gel. These are professional formula products designed specifically to keep your teeth their brightest.
Some people experience temporary increased tooth sensitivity to cold after treatment. These symptoms disappear within 1-3 days after interruption or completion of the treatment. The entire procedure takes just over one hour. The procedure begins with a preparation period followed by one hour of bleaching. A five-minute fluoride treatment completes the procedure (a current examination and cleaning are required prior to the Zoom! whitening session).
