Over-the-counter whitening trays contain much lower concentrations of peroxide and are not as effective as dental-grade whitening trays.
The journey begins with a comprehensive consultation, where Dr. Michael Hanna will evaluate your dental and facial structure using X-rays, photos, and impressions. The goals of your treatment will be discussed and the best option for you will be recommended, whether it is traditional braces or clear aligners.
After the initial evaluation, the orthodontist develops a personalized treatment plan. This includes detailed steps in aligning your teeth, and if braces or aligners are recommended, they will discuss the specifics, including duration, potential adjustments, and anticipated results.
This stage involves wearing braces or aligners to actively shift the teeth into their desired positions. For braces, regular visits are scheduled for adjustments. With clear aligners, you’ll switch to new aligners approximately every two weeks, with periodic visiting check-ins to track progress.
Once the teeth are properly aligned, retainers are used to maintain your new smile. These retainers prevent your teeth from shifting back, and your Dr. Hanna will advise on how often to wear them to protect your results long-term.
Take-home whitening is a great option for those with sensitive teeth, busy schedules, or who don’t need an instant drastic whitening treatment. One appointment is required so we can take impressions of your teeth.
These impressions enable us to have a dental lab create custom-fit whitening trays that fit snugly over your teeth and don’t come into contact with your gums, unlike over-the-counter trays which can damage your soft tissue.
Once your trays are ready, you’ll pick them up along with the whitening gel and we’ll give you written instructions on how to use them over the next 2 weeks. The trays are to be worn each day as instructed for 2 weeks and your teeth will gradually become whiter each day.
The in-office treatment will instantly and dramatically whiten your teeth by up to 10 shades in one session, making it desirable for special occasions like weddings or graduations. During your appointment, we will utilize a cheek retractor and protective gel to keep the bleaching agent away from the soft tissue inside of your mouth.
The whitening gel is carefully applied to each of your teeth and activated with a UV light. The entire process takes about an hour and multiple treatments may be necessary for severely discolored teeth.
Red wine, coffee, tea, and smoking cause tooth discoloration and should be avoided to preserve your whitened teeth.
Teeth whitening lasts anywhere from 6 months to 3 years. Increase the lifespan of your whitening treatment by practicing good oral hygiene, attending regular dental cleanings, and reducing your exposure to staining foods, drinks, and tobacco products.
This depends on the whitening treatment you get. In-office whitening treatment will produce the most noticeable instant change, lightening your teeth by up to 10 shades in one hour. While the take-home treatment is just as effective at whitening your teeth, it will be a gradual process, slowly whitening your teeth each day over 2 weeks.
Teeth whitening can cause temporary tooth sensitivity because the peroxide demineralizes your teeth and exposes the dentinal tubules which contain nerve endings, causing hypersensitivity. Within a few days, the minerals will be restored to the tooth and the sensitivity will diminish. You can reduce tooth sensitivity by using a desensitizing gel and brushing your teeth with toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.
You can avoid drinks staining your teeth by sipping through a straw.
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