Maternity / Dental implants / Weight Control / Plastic Surgery / Facial / Derma Laser / Teeth Whitening / Request an Appointment

Vital Tooth Bleaching

Tooth bleaching is changing the tooth shade to a lighter shade be using a peroxide containing whitening agent.

There are two techniques for the application of the whitening agent.

1. Take home bleaching:
    This technique uses a custom-fitted soft mouth guard, loaded with the material, and applied one to two times, 1 to 2 hours duration at home, for 10 to 14 days.

2. Chair side bleaching:
    This technique is done in the dental office and uses a higher concentration of the whitening material after the isolation of the teeth, with the light of the chemical activation.

The treatment usually takes one hour, and gives the results quickly, compared with the other technique. However it is recommended to use the bleaching trays after the treatment to support and extend the treatment results.

Success rate:

Human clinical studies have shown a 92% over all success rate with most persons experiencing lightning of their teeth, however not all teeth are responsive to the treatment and not all teeth respond at the same rate. The only way to know at this time is to attempt the treatment. Teeth that are discolored by age, genetics, smoking, or coffee stains are the most responsive to the treatment, whereas those stained by the antibiotic tetracycline, and teeth with white spots is the two less responsive to bleaching. The average duration of the color change seems to be 1 to 3 years, although it may be permanent.

 

Side effects:

Recent data seem to indicate that this form of dentist-prescribed bleaching, when preceded by a proper examination and correct diagnosis, is as safe as other accepted dental procedures.

Some teeth may be more sensitive to temperature changes during treatment, however sensitive teeth return to normal when treatment is terminated and no long-term effects are noted. Often reduction of the amount of treatment time per application, or reduction of the frequency of the treatment will reduce or alleviate the sensitivity, such that the bleaching treatment may still be continued.

It is advisable to cease smoking during treatment.

Treatment is not recommended on pregnant or nursing women because there is no reason to prescribe an elective procedure in the face of their more important responsibilities.