What
is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth 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,
a tooth will generally darken.
Is Whitening Safe?
Whitening is very safe. We use a product that
has been proven safe when used under the direction of a dentist.
Is Whitening For Me?
Dr. Kopczyk, Dr. Vieth, or Dr. Majors
will evaluate your teeth and smile to determine whether whitening
is right for you. In some cases a different cosmetic procedure
may better meet your expectations, but whitening is a safe,
fast and easy process that is effective for almost everyone!
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We Give You Choices!
You can choose in-office light-activated whitening for immediate
results, or you can choose at-home whitening.
What
Is In-Office Whitening?
For In-Office whitening, we utilize the advanced Zoom! light-activated
process. Click
here to learn more about 
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What Is The At-Home Whitening Process?
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First, we will make impressions of your teeth so that
our lab can create custom whitening trays to fit your
mouth. These trays will guide the whitening agent to the
areas of your teeth that need to be whitened. We will
record the current color of your teeth to help you monitor
your progress. |
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Next, we will fit your custom trays in your mouth to
ensure they feel comfortable. We will instruct you on
how to apply the whitening agent to your trays and how
to insert them into your mouth. You will take the custom
trays and whitening agent home with you. The treatment
can be applied any time of day since the clear, custom-fitted
trays are barely visible and do not interfere with your
ability to speak. |
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When Will I See Results?
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Immediately! Most patients see results after the first
treatment. It will typically take from 2 to 6 weeks to
restore your teeth to a beautiful white. The time it will
take depends on the original color of your 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 once or twice. "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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