Tooth Whitening For an appointment call 301-424-2030
About Tooth Whitening
Tooth whitening is one of the easiest procedures that can be done to improve
the appearance of a smile. Today, tooth whitening is a safe and long-lasting
way to achieve a brighter smile. A dentist-supervised whitening treatment
is the safest and most effective method for obtaining whiter teeth.
Teeth become darker with age and exposure to substances
such as coffee, tea, and tobacco. These yellow, brown or orange colored
stains respond best to lightening. Other stains may be caused by
exposure to a drug called tetracycline or the excess fluoride during
early stages of tooth development. These gray stains can be lightened
but results are not as predictable.
 
The Whitening Process
After a thorough exam to ensure oral health, your dentist will determine if
you are a candidate for a whitening process. There are several whitening
processes available toady; our dentists will recommend one that will give
you the best results.
In-office whitening is done at our office with the highly recommened Zoom! Whitening system, as seen on ABC's Extreme Makeover television show. While it
may require several visits depending on the number of teeth that
need whitening, in-office whitening is the fastest way to brighten
your smile. A special heat light may be used to activate the agent.
A dentist-supervised, at-home whitening system is the
most popular way to achieve a whiter smile. One of our fabulous assistants will
take an impression of the teeth to create a custom-bleaching tray.
When you receive the bleaching tray, you will also receive the whitening
gel and specific instructions from your dentist on how to use the
system. This system usually takes 10 to 14 days to complete but some
patients may begin to notice results right away. Your dentist will
ask you to come back to check on you progress.
Side Effects of Tooth Whitening
Tooth whitening is very safe, especially when supervised by our dentists.
The whitening process does not harm existing enamel, tooth structure, bonding
or restorations. However, whitening agents will not lighten bonding or tooth-colored
fillings, only the teeth around them.
For some people, teeth may become sensitive during
the 10 to 14 days of treatment with whitening gel. Your dentist
may choose to alter the treatment to alleviate sensitivity. However,
the sensitivity is usually temporary and will lessen after treatment
is over. Some people may have slight gum irritation from small amounts
of the whitening gel coming in contact with the tissue.
Length of Effectiveness
Depending on personal habits, whiter, brighter teeth should last one to five
years. Smoking and drinking coffee, tea and dark colas can darken teeth sooner
and may require a whitening touch-up. Twice-daily brushing, daily flossing
and regular dental checkups will help keep whitened teeth bright.
For More Information visit Discus Dental's Zoom FAQ's page
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