Dallas, TX Teeth Whitening Dentist Explains Custom Whitening

Written by Dr. Lin on Jul 5, 2013

Your smile is one of your greatest assets and the first thing people notice about you. It’s no wonder that whiter teeth have become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients. Fortunately, teeth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to brighten natural tooth enamel and enhance the beauty of your smile.

Today there are several options you can choose to whiten your teeth. Remember, though, that tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel so it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc.  At the Dallas, TX Teeth Whitening Dentist office we replace these restorations only after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

It is also important to remember that any bleaching or tooth whitening treatment is not permanent. Depending on your individual habits of consuming stain-producing products like tobacco, coffee, tea or wine, a touch-up may be needed periodically.

Reasons for Teeth Whitening

  • Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development)
  • Normal wear of outer tooth layer
  • Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.)
  • Yellow, brown stained teeth
What Does Custom Teeth Whitening Involve?

By far the most effective and longest lasting results are obtained with custom tooth whitening done by your dentist. Custom tooth whitening normally requires two visits to your Dallas, TX Teeth Whitening Dentist office. During the first appointment, impressions will be made of your teeth and used to create custom, clear plastic trays.

At your second appointment, the trays will be adjusted as needed to ensure a proper fit. Another advantage to custom teeth whitening is that your dental professional will ensure that the trays fit properly and are not exposing sensitive gum tissue to the bleaching agent.

You will take home the trays and wear it with the teeth whitening gel provided by your dentist. Dr. Lin will recommend the length of time and frequency that the trays should be worn, depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.  Increased tooth sensitivity is a normal side effect experienced during the whitening process, but will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.