Bleaching/Whitening Natural Teeth

Bleaching/Whitening is a simple and effective process that lightens discoloured enamel and dentin. The system uses a peroxide-based gel retained in a custom-fitted gasket that is worn over your teeth. It can be an in-office treatment or an in-home treatment used during the day while you read, watch television, or while you sleep.

What causes tooth discolouration?

There are several causes, the most common being aging, staining substances (coffees, teas, colas, tobacco use), trauma, medical treatment/prescription drug therapy, excessive fluoride, and nerve degeneration. Almost everyone with natural teeth can benefit from teeth whitening. However, there are cases where treatment may not be effective. A Denturist will determine if you are a candidate following a thorough examination. The tooth-whitening system is ideal for people who have healthy, unrestored teeth and would like to have a whiter, brighter smile. The whitening process is most effective on mildly discoloured teeth. Darker stains, such as those caused by drug therapy, take longer to respond to treatment. The degree of whiteness will vary from person to person, depending on the structure of the teeth and how long the system is used.

Results are usually seen following the first treatment. The best results generally occur when the process is continued for 10 to 14 treatments.  Teeth will always be lighter than they were. However, some patients may need periodic re-whitening for one or two nights, every six months to a year.