Dr. Levin is in the business of brilliant smiles
Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening can make a big difference in the appeal of a smile. Dr. Levin’s teeth whitening (or bleaching) procedure is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel. It is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.
What is the number one aesthetic concern of dental patients that come to Dr. Levin? Patients want whiter teeth. There are various ways to get that bright, white smile. The most popular method is using a home teeth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically. Since teeth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, and other dental work. Therefore, replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching to match the newly bleached teeth.
Teeth whitening is not permanent. A touch-up may be needed every several years, and more often if you stain your teeth with tobacco, coffee, tea or wine.
Reasons for teeth whitening
- Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).
- Normal wear of outer tooth layer.
- Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.).
- Yellow, brown stained teeth.
What does teeth whitening involve?
This type of teeth whitening requires two visits. At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear, plastic trays.
At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary. The trays are worn with special whitening solution, twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks. The way the trays are used depends on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.
Tooth sensitivity is the big side effect of teeth whitening. However, it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching. You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays. You should visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a beautiful, brilliant, white smile.
Tooth discoloration?
Tooth discoloration is never a pretty sight. The common culprits include aging and consumption of substances that cause staining such as tea, tobacco, even vegetable juices. The consumption of certain antibiotics or excessive fluoride during childhood may also cause tooth discoloration.
Is tooth whitening safe?
Tooth whitening is extremely safe. Many dentists consider whitening the safest cosmetic dental procedure available. Note: As with any tooth whitening product, many are not recommended for children under 13 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.
Do the results last a long time?
If you follow post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. We recommend flossing and brushing twice daily using professional formula products designed to keep your teeth their brightest. These products can be purchased at Dr. Levin’s office.
Is there any difference between over-the-counter tooth whiteners and professional grade whiteners
The first step to whitening your teeth safely is a consultation with an experience professional like Dr. Levin. Over-the-counter tooth whitening strips, brush-on gels and toothpastes take weeks or months to get the results that can be obtained by professional teeth whitening in a few visits.
