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?
Dr. Gifford 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!
We Give You Choices!
You can choose in-office light-activated bleaching for immediate results, or you can choose at-home bleaching.
What
Is In-Office Bleaching?
For In-Office
bleaching, we utilize the advanced BriteSmile light-activated process. Click
here to learn more about 
What Is The At-Home 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.
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© Copyright 2004- Dental WebSmith, Inc. and Don R. Gifford, DDS, PC. All rights reserved. Disclaimer: The information provided within is intended to help you better understand dental conditions and procedures. It is not meant to serve as delivery of medical or dental care. If you have specific questions or concerns, contact your health care provider.
