 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. Sexton 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!
What
Is The 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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