Teeth Whitening

Why is tooth whitening done?

Tooth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure done to reduce stains and discolouration of teeth or to provide brighter and whiter teeth. Teeth whitening can be done by

1. Vital whitening

• Brites smile teeth whitening (in-office)
• Laser bleaching (in-office)

2. Non-vital whitening

3. Custom fit tray bleaching (in-home)

Teeth enamel discolouration is caused by staining, aging, genetic factors, and chemical reactions caused by medications, tea, coffee, cigarettes etc.

How is the procedure done?

• Vital Whitening
  The translucent bleaching gel is applied to the teeth and a high intensity light or laser is directed at the teeth to activate the bleaching agent
• Non-vital whitening
  • If the tooth has had a root canal, the solution can be placed on the outside as well as the inside of the tooth.
  • The bleaching solution is placed inside the tooth and the opening is sealed with a temporary filling.
  • The solution inside the tooth is changed about once a week.
• Custom fit tray bleaching (in-home)
  • At the first appointment, the dentist takes impressions of the patient’s teeth and then creates a perfectly fitted mouthpiece.
  • The custom made plastic tray made is taken home and a small amount of the bleaching gel is placed in the tray and worn for about one to two hours per day.