Teeth Whitening

Teeth Whitening that Works

Teeth whitening is a wonderful way to take years off your smile’s appearance. The simple, straightforward process naturally lifts stain particles that have built up deep within your porous tooth enamel. Most of our patients experience teeth that are several shades whiter after their treatment, and results can last for years with proper maintenance.

Teeth whitening has become a popular dental procedure for achieving a brighter smile. Various methods of tooth whitening treatments, such as teeth whitening kits, allow individuals to bleach teeth at home. These teeth whitening kits typically include tooth-bleaching agents like whitening gel containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.

A Girl With a Beautiful Smile

They may also contain components like whitening strips and whitening toothpaste, designed to effectively lift surface stains and enhance tooth color.

For more intensive results, individuals may explore professional teeth whitening treatments. Among these methods, in-office vital bleaching has gained traction. This procedure involves applying bleaching agents under controlled conditions, ensuring optimal results and minimizing risks. Similarly, in-office tooth whitening is conducted within dental clinics, utilizing advanced techniques to deliver remarkable improvements in tooth shade.

Woman in a whitening treatment

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity during teeth whitening is a common concern for many individuals. Some people may experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures during or after a professional teeth whitening treatment. This sensitivity is usually mild and should subside within a few days after the whitening procedure. If you experience prolonged or severe sensitivity, it is essential to consult with your dentist to determine the best course of action for managing this discomfort.

Nightguard Vital Bleaching

Nightguard Vital Bleaching (NGVB) involves using a custom-fitted mouthguard with a 10 percent carbamide peroxide whitening gel worn during sleep. This bleaching technique gradually brightens teeth without causing discomfort. The standard bleaching treatment typically lasts one to two weeks but may be extended to months for tough surface stains. When used in a professionally supervised manner, nightguard vital bleaching is as safe as any other routinely used dental treatment. The quest for a brighter smile has led to the development of top teeth whitening kits, offering comprehensive solutions for at-home treatments.

Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional whitening treatment is another option for those seeking a brighter smile. Dental bleaching, a key part of professional teeth whitening, uses specialized agents to break down stains and reveal whiter teeth. In some cases, dental implants can even be used in conjunction with teeth whitening procedures to enhance the overall aesthetic.

It is important to note that dental implants do not respond to whitening procedures. While professional teeth whitening treatments can effectively lighten natural teeth, dental implants are not affected by these procedures. Dental implants are made of artificial materials that do not change color like natural teeth.

Smiling with closed eyes
If you have dental implants and are interested in improving their appearance, it is best to consult with your dentist to explore other options, such as replacing the crown or prosthetic to achieve the desired aesthetic result.

The success of teeth whitening hinges on the quality of dental materials used. Dental professionals rely on a range of advanced dental materials to ensure the safety and effectiveness of whitening methods. As teeth whitening treatment continues to evolve, it remains an exciting frontier in cosmetic dentistry, enabling individuals to display their radiant smiles confidently.

The most common sources of tooth stains are:

Medication

Tobacco

Tea, Coffee, and Red Wine

Age

Over time, these factors can lead to tooth discoloration, making teeth appear less vibrant than desired.

A range of teeth-whitening products is available to combat these surface stains and restore the natural brightness of your teeth. Whitening toothpastes, enriched with special abrasives and polishing components, help gently remove surface stains, making them a convenient part of daily oral care routines. These toothpastes often contain a mild whitening agent to enhance their stain-removing capabilities.

Individuals can apply a whitening solution or gel containing active whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide directly to the teeth for more targeted whitening. Whitening pens, which are portable and easy to use, deliver such solutions to specific areas, allowing for touch-ups on the go. Similarly, whitening trays, customized to fit your teeth, can hold whitening gel for consistent and even coverage.

Whitening mouthwash is another option that complements daily oral hygiene. It helps freshen breath while containing a gentle whitening agent to gradually brighten teeth.

To address deeper stains, professional whitening procedures conducted by dental experts are recommended. These procedures involve the application of more vital whitening agents and may incorporate advanced whitening systems, ensuring thorough and efficient results. In-office treatments are particularly effective for individuals with more stubborn discoloration or yellow teeth.

For those who prefer a natural approach, baking soda or the best whitening toothpaste can be beneficial. Baking soda’s mild abrasive properties can help remove stains, while specialized whitening toothpaste formulations provide a gentle yet effective means of maintaining a bright smile.

In summary, teeth whiteners come in various forms, from toothpaste, gels, mouthwash, and professional treatments. With careful use and consideration of individual needs, these whitening products and agents can help address tooth discoloration and gradually restore a brilliant, confident smile.

Man with a big smile

Professional Whitening Trays

To whiten your smile, we will take an impression of your teeth and create customized whitening trays that fit snuggly around your teeth. A small dot of whitening gel is then placed inside each tooth reservoir, and the tray is worn over your teeth for about one hour each day. Within two weeks, you will see full results from your treatment.

Maintain your smile by touching up your whitening after your professional cleanings every six months or more often if necessary.

Are you a candidate for teeth whitening? One of our dentists will check your teeth and gums for signs of infection or disease before recommending a whitening routine. Schedule your check-up with Monrovia Family Dentistry today to find out more.