Everybody loves a bright white smile and in our office we do multiple procedures to help you improve the look of yours. In many cases, easiest way to improve your smile is teeth whitening. Two main types of teeth whitening treatments are:

• Professional teeth whitening performed by your dentist;

• At-home whitening trays

Professional teeth whitening by your dentist is your best choice when you need immediate whitening results. This procedure is called chair-side bleaching and usually takes about 2 hours. During chair-side bleaching, the dentist will apply a protective barrier to the gums. A bleaching agent is then applied to the teeth and a special light may be used to enhance the action of the agent. In our office we use the Zoom whitening system.

At-Home Whitening System consists of using custom-fitted trays that have been fabricated by your dentist. Bleaching agent, usually carbamide peroxide which comes in several different concentrations, is placed into a bleaching tray and worn by a patient for an hour at a time. In order to achieve the desired effect, this procedure has to be repeated at least 5-6 times.

Teeth whitening can have minor side effects and you should speak with your dentist if these become bothersome. For example, teeth can become sensitive during the period when you are using the bleaching solution. In most cases, this sensitivity is temporary and should lessen once the treatment is finished. Some people also experience soft-tissue irritation, either from a tray that doesn’t fit properly or from solution that may come in contact with the tissues. If you have concerns about such side effects, you should discuss them with the dentist.

Schedule a visit with your dentist to learn whether whitening procedures would be effective for you. Whiteners do not correct all types of discoloration. For example, yellowish teeth will probably bleach well, brownish teeth may bleach less effectively, and grayish teeth may require extended bleaching time or other esthetic dentistry treatment options. Likewise, whitening may not enhance your smile if you have had tooth-colored fillings or crowns. The whitener will not affect the color of these materials and they will stand out in your newly whitened smile. In these cases, you do have other options, such as porcelain veneers. Upon oral exam, Dr. Palagi can determine if you are a good candidate for bleaching.