Tooth Whitening & Teeth Bleaching FAQ

I am unhappy with the dingy or yellowish color of my teeth. What tooth whitening or bleaching options do I have?

There are a wide range of tooth whitening options that you can explore. To acheive a subtle or gradual whitening, there are several over-the-counter agents such as whitening toothpastes, whitening strips, or tooth whitening trays. These options are inexpensive and are ideal for those who wish to simply maintain the current whiteness of their teeth or to improve it subtly or gradually over the course of several weeks or months. The alternative is an in-office tooth whitening procedure, in which your dentist will use a combination of a laser treatment and a strong bleaching agent to acheive a whiter, brighter smile right away.

What does the in-office tooth whitening procedure comprise of?

First, a dental hygienist will clean your teeth to remove all plaque and buildup. Then, your dentist will apply the bleaching gel which is then activated by the laser whitening treatment.

How long does the tooth whitening process take?

The entire whitening process takes no more than a couple of hours, and your teeth will be several shades lighter upon exiting the office.

Is tooth whitening safe for my teeth? Are there any side effects of the tooth whitening procedure?

The teeth whitening procedure is very safe and done very often in our offices to acheive pleasing and long-lasting results. Sometimes, patients do experience a bit of tooth sensitivity, which will fade within a few days. We recommend a desensitizing toothpaste in the meantime if necessary.

What does your office recommend to maintain my new white teeth following the tooth whitening procudure?

Over-the-counter whitening toothpastes are recommended. Try to steer clear of red wine, coffee, and dark juices as much as possible, but always brush following their consumption.

How long will my new look last?

Patients may wish to come in approximately six months for another tooth whitening treatment, but white teeth can be maintained by following a good diet as outlined above as well as brushing and flossing on a regular basis.

In closing, our patients have been thrilled with the new confidence they experience following a tooth whitening procedure. To improve the look of your smile by scheduling an in-office tooth whitening consultation or procedure, please call our offices at 713.795.5905.

Sincerely,

The Medical Center Dental Group

Dr. Dale Brant, Dr. Charles Campbell, and Dr. Elizabeth O'Sullivan-Winslow