In-office tooth whitening procedures can make tooth color five to seven shades brighter. Dental offices use different methods of tooth whitening to achieve effective results.
Whitening products can brighten teeth that have been stained or darkened by:
- Food
- Tobacco
- Injury
- Aging
In-Office Teeth Whitening Procedures
Types of dental office whitening procedures may include:
Professionally Applied Tooth Whitening Products
These products are applied at the dentist’s office and have a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide, a whitening agent, than do over-the-counter preparations.
Laser Or Light Treatment
During these procedures, whitening solution is applied to the teeth in combination with the use of a special light or laser. Results can usually be seen after just one session.
Custom Mouth Tray
A custom mouthpiece or tray is created by the dentist specifically for the particular patient’s use. The patient is provided with the mouthpiece, a peroxide-based whitening solution and instructions for home-use of the whitening device.
In-office teeth whitening takes place over a series of one-hour appointments at the dentist’s office. Teeth will be examined and cleaned to make sure there are no cavities, loose fillings, gum problems or any other issues that may be exacerbated by the whitening process. Patients who choose to use the whitening products in combination with home treatment may be monitored by their dentist for results.
Whitening procedures are effective but not permanent. Depending on the procedure used, whitening may fade over time. Patients are advised to avoid problem food and drinks that may stain or darken the shades of the teeth.
