Teeth Whitening

Having a beautiful smile may be even easier than you think. Many people achieve the look they’ve been dreaming of with our simple “whitening” procedure.

What are the details of teeth whitening?

It’s safe, quick, and inexpensive. Just let us know at any appointment if you would like to whiten your teeth. You can lighten only your upper teeth or both the upper and lower, depending on how much you show when you talk and smile.

Dental whitening can be used to correct tooth discoloration. Discolorations can be caused by staining, aging, or chemical damage to teeth. Using the latest in whitening technology, we can offer a safe method for creating a beautiful “brilliant” smile. In cases of extreme tooth discoloration, crowns or veneers may be the only choice, but because of the low cost of whitening treatments, teeth whitening is nearly always worth a solid try.

Key Benefits of Teeth Whitening

  • Corrects brown, yellow and spotted tooth staining
  • Works on people of any age
  • Is a near-permanent solution for a “dull” smile, restoring brightness 

Considerations for Teeth Whitening

Over-the-counter bleaching agents are available for purchase at drug stores and pharmacies. However, since these products can cause harm to the gums and teeth, it’s better to use products that our practice recommends.

in office whitening

Zoom Whitening

What is Zoom! teeth whitening?

Zoom! is a bleaching process that uses a laser light in combination for a professional get to lighten discoloration of enamel and dentin.

Who may benefit from teeth whitening?

Just about anyone can benefit from tooth whitening. However, treatment may not be as effective for some as it is for others. With an oral exam, Dr. Yowell or Dr. Buckbee can determine if you are a candidate for this procedure, including a shade assessment.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Yes, research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. In fact, many dentists consider whitening the safest cosmetic dental procedure available. As with any tooth whitening product, Zoom! is not recommended for children under 13 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.

Do the results last a long time?

By following some simple post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. We recommend flossing, brushing twice daily with Zoom! Whitening Toothpaste, and touch-ups with Zoom! take-home gel. These are professional formula products designed specifically to keep your teeth their brightest. They are available through our office.

How does the Zoom! In-Office System work?

Prior to your zoom whitening appointment, a digital scan of your upper and lower teeth will be acquired. This will allow us to fabricate custom bleach trays for you to take home for at home applications of sensitivity gel if needed and at home bleach maintenance. 

The day of your appointment you will arrive and be seated in a operatory. Cheek retractors and barriers will be placed in preparation for the Zoom! whitening gel. The Zoom! light-activated whitening gel’s active ingredient is Hydrogen Peroxide. As Hydrogen Peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching any colored substance while keeping the structure of the tooth unchanged. The Zoom! light aids in activating the Hydrogen Peroxide and helps it penetrate the surface of the tooth. Typically, patients will receive 3-4 sessions of gel application leaving them with beautiful, immediate results. 

Is the Zoom! In-office procedure painful?

No. During the procedure, patients can actually watch television or listen to music. Many fall asleep.

Are there any side effects?

Some people experience temporary increased tooth sensitivity to cold during treatment. These symptoms disappear within 1-3 days after interruption or completion of the treatment. All patients are sent home with custom trays and a relief gel after treatment to reduce the chances of sensitivity.

boost whitening

BOOST whitening is a speed, 1 hour immediate in office whitening treatment. At your appointment you will be seated in a operatory and cheek retractors and tissue barrier placed. After proper isolation and patient comfort are assured, the BOOST whitening gel will be applied to the teeth. Each gel application last 20 minutes and immediate results are seen. This treatment option is great for patients who have sensitive teeth as treatment time is shorter and a light is not needed for activation. 

At Home Whitening

Opalescence Go

What are Opalescence Go whitening trays?

The Opalescence Go whitening system is so powerful and effective it is only dispensed by dentists. This whitening treatment has been proven successful at providing dramatic, long-lasting results, and has received many awards in the dental world.

How do Opalescence Go whitening Trays work?

Opalescence Go whitening trays are prefilled, disposable trays that contain a powerful whitening gel. Simply insert the comfortable trays in your mouth and wear for the recommended time, and your teeth will be whiter and brighter.

How long do I wear Opalescence Go whitening trays?

Wear times for Opalescence Go whitening trays differ depending on whether you use 10% or 15% Hydrogen peroxide gel and how dramatic you want your results to be. Trays are generally worn from 15 minutes to one house per day for anywhere from 5 to 10 days.

How are the Opalescence Go whitening trays different from other whitening treatments – store-bought and professional?

Store-bought whitening treatments, such as whitening strips, can lighten teeth. But for optimal results, you want to rely on a professional treatment.  These trays are different than other professional treatments because they are extremely affordable and effective. With the adaptable, form-fitting Ultrafit tray, whitening is also extremely comfortable.

Will whitening cause tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can occur as a result of whitening. If sensitivity occurs, it is temporary and typically disappears whiting a few days after the completion of whitening treatments. Desensitizing treatments can be used to help treat or prevent sensitivity if it occurs. Contact your dentist to learn more about these treatment options. If sensitivity persists, contact your dentist.

Will whitening with Opalescence whitening products weaken my teeth?

No. Opalescence whitening products have not been shown to weaken teeth.

How long to whitening results last?

Teeth whitening results are very stable, leaving you with a stunning smile long after treatment is over, however, there are a few factors that can make seen those their brightness. Things like diet and certain habits (like smoking) may affect the length of your whitening results. Fortunately, touch-up treatments are quick and easy, helping you get that bright, white smile back.

Opalescence Gel Syringes

What is Opalescence take-home whitening?

Opalescence take-home whitening is a professional teeth whitening treatment that is so powerful and effective that it is only dispensed by dentists. Proven successful at providing dramatic, long-lasting results, is has received many awards in the dental world.

How does Opalescence take-home whitening work?

Opalescence take-home whitening is a teeth whitening gel that you wear in custom-made trays. We will take a digital scan of your teeth to fabrication trays perfectly tailored to your smile. You’ll be given syringes of gel to use during the treatment.

How long do I wear Opalescence take-home whitening?

The length of time you need to wear Opalescence take-home whitening will vary depending on your unique circumstances and the concentration of whitening gel used. A typical treatment lasts one week to 10 days. You may need to wear the trays for 15 minutes a day and several hours a day, or overnight, depending on what your dentist recommends.

How is Opalescence whitening different from other whitening treatments, Store-bought and professional?

Store-bought whitening treatments, such as whitening strips can lighten teeth. But for optimal results, you want to rely on a professional treatment. Opalescence whitening is the global leader in teeth whitening, it has won numerous industry awards and one thing we often hear is, “it just works better!”