Frequently Asked Questions about Tooth Bleaching

Q: Who may benefit from tooth whitening?
A: Almost everyone. However, there are some cases where treatment may not be effective. Tooth lightening is ideal for patients who have healthy, unrestored teeth and would like a whiter, brighter smile. Tetracycline discolorations and artificial dental work are usually not greatly responsive to dental bleaching.

Q: What is the treatment procedure?
A: An impression of your teeth will be made by you at home with our easy-to-use instant moldable mouthpieces or with our ProLab impression kit. You will then apply our whitening gel inside the mouthpiece and place the mouthpiece over your teeth. You may wear the mouthpieces from 30 minutes to 4 hours per day. Most people see quick results after only a few hours of bleaching time.

Q: What is the teeth whitening process?
A: Teeth Whitening is actually a bleaching process that lightens discolorations of tooth enamel. Dental bleaching systems use an effective whitening solution retained in a custom-fitted mouthpiece that is worn over your teeth for 1-4 hours per day, or even overnight. Many people notice an immediate whitening of their teeth just a few hours of bleaching, but it usually takes between 10 - 30 hours of cumulative bleaching time to complete the whitening process (This is true for all at-home dental bleaching systems, no matter who the manufacturer). You can break your hours into just a few days (for people who are in a hurry) or a few months (for people who are not). Professional strength whitening gel formulated with 16% carbamide peroxide is the most widely used and most desirable active ingredient in effective dental bleaches. Tougher staining may require longer timeframes or stronger gel (like our 22% formula).

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