General Information
Tooth whitening is designed to lighten the color of your teeth. Significant whitening can be achieved in the vast majority of cases, but the results cannot be guaranteed. When done properly, the whitening will not harm your teeth or gums. However, like any other treatment, it has some inherent risks and limitations. These are seldom serious enough to discourage you from having your teeth whitened, but should be considered when deciding to have the treatment. Almost anyone is a candidate for tooth whitening. However, people with dark yellow or yellow/brown teeth tend to whiten better than people with gray or bluish-gray teeth. Multi-colored teeth, especially if due to tetracycline, do not whiten very well. Teeth with many fillings, cavities, chips, etc., are usually best treated by bonding, porcelain veneers or porcelain crowns. Any current restoration you have, such as, fillings, porcelain crowns, onlays and inlays cannot be whitened.
In-Office Whitening
This process can usually be done in one visit. The appointment takes approximately 1½ hours. The advantage of in-office whitening includes doing all the work for you and in less total time than you would spend whitening your teeth at home. The disadvantages include the normal inconveniences of any dental treatment, such as having to come to our office to have the procedure done and having to keep your mouth open for the duration of the appointment.
Potential Problems
Tooth Sensitivity – During the first 24 hours following whitening, some patients experience transient sensitivity. This sensitivity is usually mild if your teeth are not normally sensitive. With in-office whitening, this sensitivity will usually subside in 1-2 days. However, if your teeth are normally sensitive, whitening may make your teeth more sensitive for an extended period of time. Under these circumstances, you may choose to delay the whitening process until we are able to complete desensitization procedures. If your teeth are sensitive after whitening, a mild analgesic such as Tylenol or Advil will usually be effective in making you more comfortable until your tooth sensitivity returns to normal. Gum Irritation – This is the result of a small amount of solution coming into contact with the gums. This can cause temporary inflammation and white spots. A burning sensation on your gums may also occur. This should resolve itself between a few hours to a few days. You may also experience burning and/or swelling of the lips.
Completion of Treatment
Level of Whitening – There is no totally reliable way to predict how light your teeth will whiten. With in office whitening, one session usually significantly whitens your teeth. Some patients require an additional session. There are no guarantees as to the degree of whitening of your teeth. The amount of whiteness varies with each individual. Relapse – Following completion of whitening, pigments found in food and drinks will re-stain your teeth, commonly called whitening relapse. You may use daily whitening toothpaste available in drug stores. I have read the information provided and understand the whitening procedure. I consent to this treatment.
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