Whitening Dentists McKinney
We feel that every patient in our practice deserves to have a beautiful white smile. We are excited to reward our patients for good dental hygiene. When you keep your scheduled cleaning visit twice in a row you may select one FREE whitening product of your choice from our office.
Your long term dental health is as important to us as it is to you. Research shows that preventative visits help greatly reduce dental emergencies. That is why we are happy to provide this extra bonus for our patients who are committed to their dental health. If you need to change an appointment please provide at least 48 hours notice. In order to provide exceptional services like Whitening for Life to all of our patients, we ask that you give us the courtesy of advanced notice for schedule changes.
Teeth Whitening
There are many products and techniques available for patients who want to achieve a brighter smile. With so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the method that is right for you. The best way to begin any teeth whitening regimen is to schedule an appointment and talk to your doctor about the differences between in office professional whitening, and at home alternatives.
AT-HOME TEETH WHITENING
TRAY BLEACHING
Tray bleaching is a type of professional whitening that uses custom-made trays and whitening gel only available through your dentist. The whitening gel is placed in custom-fitted trays that fit perfectly over your teeth. As the peroxide in the gel breaks down, hydroxyradicals help whiten stained teeth. Unlike strips, this process whitens all your natural teeth and may contain ingredients intended to provide maximum comfort. At home professional tray whitening generally takes 10-14 days, although you may notice results in as little as three to five days.
PAINT-ON TEETH WHITENERS
There are many over-the-counter teeth whitening options, and one type of readily accessible whitening product is commonly referred to as “paint-on” teeth whiteners. Paint-on whiteners can be purchased over-the-counter and generally are less expensive and less effective than whitening strips or professional options. Paint-on teeth whiteners consist of a gel that is applied to the tooth using a small brush. Paint-on whitening gel hardens into a film that coats the teeth, and dissolves in the mouth. As with any teeth whitening regimen, it is wise to consult with a dental professional before use.
TEETH WHITENING STRIPS
Teeth whitening strips are thin, flexible plastic (polyethylene) strips with a thin film of hydrogen peroxide bleaching on one side. Whitening strip kits come with two types of strips: strips for the upper teeth and strips for the lower teeth. The bleaching agent is applied by placing the strips across your teeth and gently pressing the strips into place to ensure contact with all your teeth. Teeth whitening strips are typically worn for 30 minutes a day, twice a day. The duration of treatment will vary.
WHITENING TOOTHPASTE AND MOUTHWASH
The least expensive options are whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes. Designed to have “whitening” capabilities, toothpastes and mouthwashes work to remove surface stains using mild abrasives. However, unlike bleaching materials used in professional whitening procedures, these products do not lighten the actual color shade of the tooth. Whitening toothpastes affect surface stains and will mildly lighten your teeth.
If you would like to learn more about teeth whitening, please contact our practice to schedule an appointment, or visit www.teethwhitening.com for additional information about teeth whitening.
IN-OFFICE TEETH WHITENING
The first professional option is commonly referred to as “in office” whitening. Commonly this is know as ZOOM whitening or laser whitening. This type of bleaching is usually completed in a dental office within one hour and causes significant increases in tooth temperature, which can lead to sensitivity and sometimes burns the gums. We no longer offer this option in the office because the same or better results can be achieved with use of tray bleaching with less sensitivity and side effects. It works by utilizing a cold-type photochemical activation, which shortens the bleaching process and speeds up the peroxide activation.