TEETH WHITENING SYSTEMS

Many professional teeth whitening systems are available, including trays, whitening agents  and laser whitening. Teeth whitening is ideal for people who have healthy, unrestored teeth (no fillings) and gums. Individuals with yellow tones to their teeth respond best.

Tray Based Whitening

Tray-based tooth whitening systems, purchased either over-the-counter or from Dr. Watkins, involve filling a mouth guard-like tray with a gel whitening solution -- which contains a peroxide-bleaching agent -- and wearing the tray for a period of time, generally from a couple hours a day to every day during the night for up to four weeks and even longer (depending on the degree of  discoloration and desired level of whitening).

In-Office Whitening

In-office bleaching provides the quickest  way to whiten teeth. With in-office bleaching, the whitening product is applied directly to the teeth. These products can be used in combination with heat, a special light, and/or a laser. Results are seen in only one, 30- to 60-minute treatment. But to achieve dramatic results, several appointments are usually needed. However, with in-office bleaching, dramatic results can be seen after the first treatment.

Laser Teeth Whitenening 

Laser teeth whitening can produce dramatic results in just one visit. While results will vary from person to person, it is not uncommon for patients to achieve up from 5 to 10 shades of whitening in one session.

After Dr. Watkins cleans the teeth and gum line, a whitening gel is placed on the teeth. This gel is the same as the gel used in other whitening methods, such as when used with a tray. The laser activates the gel, causing it to be more effective than when used without the laser.

Whitening results that normally would take several treatments can be accomplished in just one visit. This makes laser teeth whitening the perfect choice for people who need the best results in the shortest possible time.

Costs vary, but expect to pay between $500-$2000. While that may seem like a lot of money, consider that other options, such as veneers, can cost up to $1000 per tooth. People with sensitive teeth can still use laser teeth whitening. They might not be able to tolerate the treatment as long as someone who does not have a problem with sensitivity, so this may result in the need for more than one treatment in order to achieve maximum results. For someone with gum disease, that will likely need to be treated prior to doing any laser teeth whitening.

How Long Do Teeth Whitening Effects Last?
Teeth whitening is not permanent. People who expose their teeth to foods and beverages that cause staining may see the whiteness start to fade in as little as one month. Those who avoid foods and beverages that stain may be able to wait one year or longer before another whitening treatment or touch-up is needed.

The degree of whiteness will vary from individual to individual depending on the condition of the teeth, nature of the stain, the type of bleaching system used, and for how long.
Schedule an appointment for Teeth Whitening services with Dr. Watkins.