Tooth Whitening
One of our most popular procedures, tooth whitening essentially bleaches tooth enamel to restore a brighter, whiter smile. A non-invasive, non-permanent treatment, tooth whitening can improve the appearance of:
- Normal wear and tear of tooth enamel
- Yellowing from smoking and beverages high in tannins (such as juices, wine, tea, coffee)
- Discoloration related to fluorosis (excess fluoride)
- Stains caused by medications (such as tetracycline)
Fortunately, there are multiple ways to whiten teeth, from store-bought whitening systems that bleach teeth over days or weeks to in-office tooth whitening which offers faster, dramatic results. In-office whitening uses more concentrated bleaching agents than home whitening systems, thus it’s recommended for patients with significant discoloration or time constraints. The procedure can usually be performed in one session, making it ideal for those wanting a whiter smile for a business meeting, photos, or a special event such as a reunion, wedding or prom. Because of the “instant results,” in-office whitening costs more than store-bought systems. If your budget is a concern, you can still receive excellent results with a home whitening kit.
First Things First
If you are considering restorative dentistry, such as veneers, crowns or implants, it’s wise to have your teeth whitened first. That way, the restorations will better match your newly whitened smile.