Tooth Whitening

Key Benefit

Removes a variety of stains and whitens the teeth without harming them. Fact: teeth are one of the first things people notice about each other.

Overview

Tooth Whitening is a process that exposes the tooth surface to a bleaching agent that creates microscopic pores in the tooth surface and then flows through these pores to dissolve (oxidize) stains and other impurities. The tooth-whitening agent only bleaches the outer enamel surface-not the underlying dentin layer.

The bleaching agent, usually a concentrated form of hydrogen peroxide, is poured into a thin plastic tray that is custom-modeled for an individual's teeth. It is then inserted onto the teeth and holds the bleaching agent against the teeth for several hours at a time over a period of several weeks to achieve the level of whitening desired.

Tooth whitening can also be done with bleaching lights in the office. This method produces faster results.

Potential Irritation of Teeth & Gums

Any irritation caused by bleaching is temporary. Most people experience either no irritation or only slight irritation. Occasionally, someone with very sensitive teeth and/or gums may need to discontinue bleaching until the irritation stops. Bleaching with lights tends to produce more irritation than a bleaching tray holding a gel bleach against the teeth.

Who Benefits?

Anyone with discoloration of the teeth can benefit, but it is recommended mostly for adults who have been exposed to staining foods, drinks or tobacco products throughout their life. Some stains respond less to bleaching than do others. Tetracycline stains of teeth (grey-brown) are about the most difficult stains to bleach from the internal structure of teeth.

Schedule an Appointment

If you'd like a dazzling smile, or would like more information about teeth whitening, contact Natural Horizons Health & Wellness Center at (877)-292-1571.