Discover the Best Whitening Treatment for You
Over time, factors like stain-causing foods, beverages, smoking, and thinning enamel can dull your smile. If you're feeling self-conscious about your teeth, your dentist can help you find the right whitening treatment to restore your confidence.
At-home Whitening
Home treatments can effectively reduce surface stains and are generally more affordable than professional whitening options. However, these methods are typically less potent than in-office treatments and often require several weeks of daily use to achieve noticeable results.
Whitening Toothpastes and Rinses
Whitening toothpastes and rinses employ mild abrasives and bleaching agents, typically peroxides, to tackle surface stains from foods, beverages, and smoking. They are also useful for maintaining brightness after professional whitening treatments. Although they have limited impact on deep stains or overall tooth color, they can enhance surface stains with consistent use over several weeks.
Whitening Strips
These flexible plastic strips come in two sizes to fit both upper and lower teeth, with one side coated in a peroxide-based gel. To use, place the gel-coated side against your teeth and press gently to ensure full contact. Avoid letting the strip touch sensitive gum tissue to prevent irritation. Typically, these strips are used once a day for 30 minutes each session. The total treatment duration varies, ranging from several days to a few weeks.
In-Office Treatment
In-office whitening treatments are typically faster, more effective, and longer-lasting compared to over-the-counter products. Dentists use gels with higher concentrations of peroxide, providing more significant results. During the procedure, your dentist will first ensure your teeth and gums are healthy, protect your surrounding gum tissue, and monitor the treatment process.
ZOOM Whitening
Zoom Whitening consists of hydrogen peroxide based gel brushed on your teeth which is light activated. While the light itself doesn’t whiten teeth, it activates the whitening gel’s molecules, accelerating the chemical reaction that removes stains. This is a 2 hour procedure in office and a sensitivity (fluoride) toothpaste is to be used 2 weeks before the appointment. We provide our patients with this toothpaste.
Custom Bleach Trays
For those preferring at-home whitening, custom trays made by your dentist are a precise option. These trays are tailored to fit your teeth exactly and ensure an even application of the provided whitening gel. Using these custom trays typically requires about two weeks for optimal results.
However, some teeth may not respond well to standard whitening methods. If you have deep discoloration from trauma or medications, or if you have dental restorations like veneers, crowns, or bridges that are darker than your natural teeth, consult with your dentist. They can recommend the most effective whitening treatment or alternative cosmetic procedures to help you achieve a brighter smile.