Teeth Whitening

Many products and techniques are available for patients who want to achieve a brighter smile. With so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the method that is right for you.

The best way to begin any teeth-whitening regimen is to schedule an appointment and talk to us about the differences between in-office professional whitening and at-home whitening.

In-Office Teeth Whitening

The first professional option is commonly referred to as in-office whitening. This procedure is performed in a dental office. During an appointment, a dental professional will apply a whitening gel to the surface of your teeth. The entire office visit generally takes about 90 minutes and you will be able to see results immediately.

Zoom! WhiteSpeed Light-Activated Whitening System

The Zoom Chairside Light-Activated Gel greatly accelerates and enhances the whitening process, and delivers the dramatic results you will love. Along with the all-new Whitening LED Accelerator, your teeth can become up to eight shades lighter in just 45 minutes!

The gel and light work together gently to break up the stains on your teeth, while leaving the structure of your teeth unchanged. After just three 15-minute applications in one hour, you rinse and the treatment is complete, leaving you with a brighter, whiter smile.

At-Home Teeth Whitening

  • Opalescence®

Opalescence Take Home Whitening Gels are only available through a dental professional. While using the Opalescence Tooth Whitening System, he will supervise your treatment from initial consultation through completion. The special whitening gel will not affect your gums, and in many cases can help improve your oral health by strengthening tooth enamel, decreasing sensitivity, and offering increased cavity prevention.

Opalescence Take Home Whitening Gels are delivered through customized bleaching trays designed to fit your unique smile. Dr. Deese will create your personal trays from an alginate impression of your mouth; this customization is part of what makes Opalescence Take Home Whitening Gels so effective.

  • Paint-On Teeth Whiteners

There are many over-the-counter teeth whitening options. One type of readily accessible whitening products is commonly referred to as a “paint-on” teeth whitener. Paint-on whiteners can be purchased over the counter and generally are less expensive and less effective than whitening strips or professional options.

Paint-on teeth whiteners consist of a gel applied to the tooth using a small brush. Paint-on whitening gel hardens into a film that coats the teeth, and dissolves in the mouth. As with any teeth-whitening regimen, it is wise to consult with a dental professional before use.

  • Teeth-Whitening Strips

Teeth-whitening strips are thin, flexible plastic (polyethylene) strips with a film of hydrogen peroxide on one side. Whitening strip kits come with two types of strips: strips for the upper teeth and strips for the lower teeth.

The whitening agent is applied by placing the strips across your teeth and gently pressing them to ensure contact with all your teeth. Teeth-whitening strips are typically worn for 30 minutes a day, twice a day. The duration of treatment will vary.

  • Whitening Toothpaste and Mouthwash

The least expensive options are whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes. Designed to have “whitening” capabilities, toothpastes and mouthwashes work to remove surface stains using mild abrasives.

However, unlike the materials used in professional whitening procedures, these products do not lighten the actual color or shade of the tooth. Whitening toothpastes affect surface stains and will mildly lighten your teeth.

If you would like to learn more about teeth whitening, please contact our practice to schedule an appointment.