Bleaching

Bleaching

Many people are unhappy with the yellow appearance of their teeth. These teeth can often easily be brightened by a variety of different bleaching methods. Bleaching will not change the color of existing crowns or tooth colored filling that are visible so this should be a consideration before starting…consulting a dentist is the best way to know what your options are and what the possible results would be. Also beware that all bleaching can cause tooth sensitivity especially to cold and can be combated with fluoride rinses and gels. I will outline the ways below that you can brighten your smile:

1. Toothpastes
Currently I am unaware of any toothpastes that significantly whiten successfully and testing by a consumer magazine found no significant change.

2: Bleaching strips
These are available in most stores and can be quite effective but are limited to bleaching only one side of the teeth. Still you may see teeth 1-3 shades lighter after using. They are also a bit technique sensitive as they need to be applied to the teeth and molded to them carefully.

3. Custom Bleaching tray
This is my preferred method of bleaching as it is quick, effective and cost effective. The dentist makes impressions of your teeth and makes a soft plastic tray that forms to each tooth exactly. Bleaching gel is then placed into the trays and placed in the mouth for 4-6 hours usually done at night, but may be done in between meals as well. Often results will be visible in 1-3 treatments but the average number of treatments will be around 7 to get a nice bright smile. Once done you can buy refills for the trays at a cost lower than bleaching strips to brighten your smile down the road. Maintenance of 1-2 nights every 6-12 months is recommended to keep that sparkling white smile.

4. UV light bleaching or One hour bleaching
First off I highly discourage this form of bleaching. This is where gels are placed on the teeth in the dental office and exposed to a light to activate. I have seen far too many negative side effects with this rapid bleaching system that includes extreme tooth sensitivity, gum damage and skin damage. I also have had many patients try this and they were disappointed in the results.