Teeth Whitening - Dentistry Library

~We can bring out your very best smile

Simple & Safe

Most people would like to have a healthy, bright smile and shining teeth. And one of the most popular, effective and safe means of achieving this is through dentist-supervised tooth whitening. Tooth whitening can lighten your teeth color, with one treatment lasting as long as 5 years. As far as safety, several recent studies have proven whitening both safe and effective; several of the required products have also received The American Dental Association's seal of approval. Occasionally, patients may notice slight gum irritation or tooth sensitivity during the process, but such side effects are resolved when the treatment is over.

Specific & Successful

First, you'll want to talk with Dr. Tartagni regarding how teeth whitening might impact your particular situation, as well as the specific whitening system that would best suit your needs. Some people are simply better candidates than others for a successful whitening treatment. For example, if your teeth are darkened to a yellow, brownish or orange tinge due to age, coffee, tea, or smoking, chances are very good that teeth whitening will bring you very satisfactory results. About 90 percent of patients find this to be the case. However, if your teeth are a dark gray tone from fluorosis, smoking or tetracycline use, whitening results may be less dramatic. And it's important to know that whitening does not lighten artificial materials such as resins, silicants or porcelains. Finally, sensitive teeth, teeth with periodontal disease, and teeth with worn enamel typically do not respond well to whitening.

Supervised & Systematic

A variety of whitening methods are available, although most patients opt for dentist-supervised at-home whitening. This process requires a few separate steps. First, Dr. Tartagni or one of our hygienists will make impressions of your teeth, which will be used to fabricate a comfortable, lightweight, customized whitening tray appliance. These trays are thin and comfortable enough to be worn night or day, during conversation, working, sleeping, etc. Upon receipt of the trays and usage instructions, you'll also be provided with the proper whitening materials and a list of recommended whitening session lengths. Typically, a system including two to four 'treatment' hours per day will require three to six weeks to complete; those including nighttime wear may be completed within 10 to 14 days.

Spectacular & Shiny

It's not possible to predict precisely how light your teeth will become, but you'll typically see a two-shade improvement as indicated on Dr. Tartagn's shade guide. And your new, brighter smile will be preserved the longest if you're willing to forgo such habits as smoking, drinking coffee and drinking tea. After one to five years, should you notice that the new color has become less bright, you may choose to have a touch-up. The second procedure is usually less costly than the first, as the original whitening trays may often be reused. Second treatments generally require less treatment time, as well.

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