Teeth Whitening

There are many products and techniques available for patients who want to achieve a brighter smile, and with so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the method that is right for you. The best way to begin any teeth-whitening regimen is to schedule a consultation appointment and talk to our doctors about the differences between in-office chairside whitening, at-home whitening tray and over the counter whitening products.

In-Office Chairside Whitening

The first professional option is commonly referred to as in-office chairside whitening. This procedure is performed in a dental office. During an appointment, the dental professional will apply a whitening gel to the surface of your teeth. The entire office visit generally takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours and you will be able to see results immediately.

At-Home Teeth Whitening

• Tray Whitening

Tray bleaching is a type of professional whitening that uses custom-made trays and whitening gel only available through the dental office. The whitening gel is placed in custom-fitted trays that fit perfectly over all of your teeth. As the peroxide in the gel breaks down, hydroxyradicals help whiten stained teeth. Unlike strips, this process whitens all your natural teeth and may contain ingredients intended to provide maximum comfort. At-home professional tray whitening generally takes ten to 14 days, although you may notice results in as little as three to five days.​

• Teeth-Whitening Strips

Teeth-whitening strips are thin, flexible plastic (polyethylene) strips with a thin film of hydrogen peroxide on one side. Whitening strip kits come with two types of strips: strips for the upper teeth and strips for the lower teeth, covering only front six teeth. The whitening agent is applied by placing the strips across your teeth and gently pressing the strips to ensure contact with all your teeth. Teeth-whitening strips are typically worn for 30 minutes a day, twice a day. The duration of treatment will vary. Our office carries the professional strength teeth-whitening strips that is not available over the counter.

• Whitening Toothpaste and Mouthwash

Whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes work to remove surface stains using mild abrasives. However, unlike the materials used in professional whitening procedures, these products do not lighten the actual color shade of the tooth. Whitening toothpastes affect surface stains and will mildly lighten your teeth.

If you would like to learn more about teeth whitening, please contact our practice to schedule a consultation appointment.