Whitening

Tooth Whitening is an exciting option for those who are looking for a whiter and brighter smile.  Dr. Jennifer Bartlett is able to give patients that dazzling smile with a simple safe and effective procedure, that can take place in one visit, and involves absolutely no pain.  Nine out of ten patients report instant dramatic results, and the effects are far greater and last longer than traditional “store bought” solutions.

Whitening is accomplished through means of  bleach gel that is applied to the teeth and allowed to set using a custom made mouth tray.  This tray ensures that the proper amount and coverage of gel is applied, and determines the proper amount of time that the teeth are exposed to the whitening solution, which usually consists of hydrogen or carbonide peroxide.  The gel promotes the introduction of oxygen into the enamel and dentin of the tooth structure, removing stains and promoting a whiter smile.

There are many kinds of whitening approaches that Dr. Bartlett may recommend to her patient.  One type, is a take home kit which can be simple and effective, time saving.  Before taking the kit home, Dr. Bartlett will fashion a custom mouth tray for the patient, and give them easy to follow direction.  The primary difference in a take home kit and an in-office cleaning concerns the amount of time that the teeth are exposed to the gel in the tray.

In office whitening procedures often produce more immediate results. In some cases a special light or laser may be used to help promote the whitening process.   Depending upon the procedure, a whitening session can last anywhere from one to three hours.   One notable benefit of a professional teeth whitening, from that of store brands, is the use of custom, made to fit, individual mouth trays during the procedure, this ensures a more direct fit and application of the whitening gel, and does not have additional complications related to other past dental work, such as fillings and crowns.  If that were not enough, the effects of an office whitening session can remain for up to an entire year!

One system that is offered as both a take-home and in-office option, is called the Zoom Whitening system.  A special tray and gel are prepared and applied to the teeth, and a special light called a Zoom Light, is used to expose the teeth.  The entire process takes about an hour.

If you have questions about the different kinds of whitening options available, contact Dr. Bartlett’s office.  One of her friendly staff will be happy to help!