Teeth Whitening

in-office and at-home whitening products

If you want to obtain a bright and white smile, teeth whitening may be just what you are looking for. Teeth whitening is not only effective, but it can also considerably change your smile and improve your self-esteem.

The ingredient that actually bleaches (whitens) enamel is called peroxide and is present in most teeth whitening products.

The strength of the whitening treatment typically depends on the strength of the peroxide contained in the whitening product. The current percentages of peroxide in teeth whitening products vary between 10%, 16%, and 22%.

Your dentist is the professional capable to determine whether your teeth and gums are healthy enough to go through a whitening process, and if so, a teeth whitening procedure can be chosen.

Teeth Whitening Options:

• In-Office Whitening- In-office teeth whitening offers excellent results. This procedure is performed in the dental office and can be done in one appointment only, usually in a little over an hour.
• At-home Whitening- Used with custom made trays (by the dentist) and bleaching gel, this option is very effective, but the desired results may take longer to be achieved than with in-office whitening. Depending on the strength of peroxide in the gel, these clear trays are usually worn a couple of hours a day or overnight and could take anywhere from 3 days to 10 days before any results are noticed. These trays are recommended after the in-office procedure as a maintenance program*. There is also over the counter whitening strips.

*Teeth whitening kits from the dentist produce faster and more effective results because they contain a stronger peroxide-bleaching agent than whitening strips purchased over the counter. Another benefit of trays and gels from the dentist is that the trays are custom made and fit your teeth exactly. Over-the-counter trays are generic sized and could allow the bleaching agent to come into contact with your gums, usually causing irritation.

• Teeth Whitening Toothpastes –Some toothpaste have mild abrasives that help in whitening teeth. We recommend natural fluoride-free toothpaste.

If you need an evaluation by Dr. Sharp, Dr. Ravazzi or any other dentist in our office, please call for an appointment at (305) 857-0990.

_{Source: American Dental Association: www.ada.org}