 |
What
is Tooth Whitening?
Tooth
Whitening is actually a mild bleaching process that restores
stained or discolored teeth to
a healthy, natural color. Don't be misled by unproven and
ineffective over-the-counter whitening solutions. Our office
uses an advanced procedure that is only available from your
dentist.
|
|
What
Causes Tooth Discoloration?
Teeth
become discolored for different reasons:
- Frequently
drinking coffee, tea, or colas.
- Some
antibiotics may darken developing teeth in children.
- Aging
- The dentin underneath the enamel of a tooth gradually
darkens with age.
- Use
of tobacco products.
- Accidents
- If a tooth has been traumatized, sometimes the nerve will
gradually "die", and the tooth becomes dark.
- After
Root Canal Therapy or Pulp
Therapy, a tooth will generally darken.
Is
Bleaching Safe?
Bleaching
is very safe. We use a product that has been proven safe when
used under the direction of a dentist.
Is
Bleaching For My Child?
Drs. Stoker or Dr.
Adams
will evaluate your child's teeth and smile to determine whether
bleaching is right for them. In some cases a different cosmetic
procedure may better meet your expectations, but bleaching
is a safe, fast and easy process that is effective for almost
everyone!
|
| What
Is The Bleaching Process? |
 |
First,
we will make impressions of the teeth so that our lab can create
custom bleaching trays. These trays will guide the bleaching
agent to the areas of the teeth that need to be bleached. We
will record the current color of the teeth to help monitor the
progress. |
 |
Next, we
will fit the custom trays in your child's mouth to ensure they
feel comfortable. We will instruct you and your child on how
to apply the bleaching agent to the trays and how to insert
them into the mouth. You will take the custom trays and bleaching
agent home with you. Most patients wear the bleaching trays
at night while they sleep, but they may be worn during the day
since the clear, custom-fitted trays are barely visible and
do not interfere with your ability to speak. |
When
Will We See Results?
 |
Immediately!
Most patients see results after the first night. It will typically
take from 2 to 6 weeks to restore your child's teeth to a beautiful
white. The time it will take depends on the original color of
their teeth, how discolored they were, and how frequently the
treatment is applied. |
How
Long Will The Results Last?
The
effects typically last several years. Many patients choose to "touch-up"
their teeth every 6 to 12 months by applying the treatment for 1
or 2 nights. "Touch-ups" are especially useful for patients
that drink beverages that stain teeth, like coffee, tea, and colas.
Are
There Any Side-Effects?
Some
patients may experience heightened tooth sensitivity
to cold, or mild tooth or gum sensitivity during treatment, but
these symptoms are only temporary and disappear within a few days.
|
