Teeth Whitening

Concerned About Discolored Teeth?

Consult with your dentist before beginning a teeth whitening regimen. The dentist needs to check for cavities and existing fillings. Your dentist can advise you on proper usage and reliable whitening products. Your dentist can also discuss reasonable expectations from whitening and help manage any sensitivity that may occur.

Tooth-whitening options range from gentle surface whiteners to stronger ones that can also remove deeper stains.

In-office whitening is done in the dental office. In-office whiteners are much stronger than whitening toothpastes and home-use whiteners because they have higher concentrations of peroxide. They can change the color of your teeth faster than the other methods. The product we use to whiten teeth is called Glo.

In-office whitening is usually done in about one hour. To help protect your mouth from the peroxide, your gum tissues will be covered with either a thin sheet of rubber or a protective gel. A light or laser may be used in addition to the peroxide.

Side effects of teeth whitening

Whitening treatment may cause your teeth to be sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. Whitening may also irritate your gums for a short time. If the side effects do not go away after a few days, see your dentist.

To avoid harming your teeth and gums, always follow the product directions and all instructions from your dentist. If your teeth become sensitive or if you get sores in your mouth, stop using the products and call your dentist.

There is such a thing as too much whitening! Do not use whitening products for longer than listed in the product directions or by your dentist. Too much whitening can make your teeth and gums hurt, or even harm your tooth enamel.

Tooth whitening is not a good choice for all people. If your gums have pulled away from the teeth in some places, whitening may irritate these areas. If you have tooth decay, cavities or gum disease, your dentist may recommend that these be treated before whitening. Also, it is important to be aware that the color of fillings, crowns, and some stains cannot be changed by tooth whitening.

Talk to your dentist about teeth whitening before you begin. He or she will do an oral exam to find out if it’s right for you.

Keeping Your Teeth White

If you have whitened your teeth recently, they may stain more easily. To keep your teeth white for as long as possible, avoid tobacco products and stain-causing food and drinks (like coffee, tea, and red wine) for several days after whitening. Keep in mind that teeth usually return to their original shade over time. But if you can steer clear of tobacco and large amounts of stain-causing food and drinks, your teeth may stay bright for several years.

The American Dental Association does not recognize cosmetic dentistry as a specialty.

Take home whitening options: 

1. 3D Crest white strips: A system of strips for upper and lower teeth meant to wear daily for 7 days total.
2. GO tooth whitening trays: A system of prefabricated trays for upper and lower teeth meant to wear daily for 10 days.
3. GLO Pro White vials + Guide light: A coupling system for upper and lower meant to wear as needed. *Note: this system is also meant to support and is provided for additional whitening following in-office GLO whitening.