Teeth Whitening
 What
is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth Whitening is actually a mild bleaching process that restores
stained or discolored teeth to a healthy,
natural color. Don't be misled by unproven and ineffective over-the-counter
whitening solutions. Our office uses an advanced procedure that
is only available from your dentist.
What Causes Tooth Discoloration?
Teeth become discolored for different reasons:
- Frequently drinking coffee, tea, or colas.
- Some antibiotics may darken developing teeth in children.
- Aging - The dentin underneath the enamel of a tooth gradually
darkens with age.
- Use of tobacco products.
- Accidents - If a tooth has been
traumatized, sometimes the nerve will gradually "die," and the
tooth becomes dark.
- After Root Canal Therapy, a tooth
will generally darken.
Is Whitening Safe?
Whitening is very safe. We use a product that has
been proven safe when used under the direction of a dentist.
Is Whitening For Me?
Dr. Huff
will evaluate your teeth and smile to determine whether whitening
is right for you. In some cases a different cosmetic procedure may
better meet your expectations, but whitening is a safe, fast and
easy process that is effective for almost everyone!
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We Give You Choices!
You can choose in-office whitening for immediate results, or you
can choose at-home whitening.
In-Office Whitening
 We
are proud to offer the 2-hour Zoom chairside whitening procedure.
Many of our patients have enjoyed beautiful smiles in just one appointment.
Please call for a whitening consultation.
What is At-Home Whitening?
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First, we will make impressions of your teeth
so that our lab can create custom whitening trays to fit your
mouth. These trays will guide the whitening agent to the areas
of your teeth that need to be whitened. We will record the current
color of your teeth to help you monitor your progress. |
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Next, we will fit your custom trays in your mouth
to ensure they feel comfortable. We will instruct you on how
to apply the whitening agent to your trays and how to insert
them into your mouth. You will take the custom trays and whitening
agent home with you. The treatment can be applied any time of
day since the clear, custom-fitted trays are barely visible
and do not interfere with your ability to speak. |
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When Will I See Results?
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Immediately! Most patients see results after the first treatment.
It will typically take from 2 to 6 weeks to restore your teeth
to a beautiful white. The time it will take depends on the original
color of your teeth, how discolored they were, and how frequently
the treatment is applied. |
How Long Will The Results Last?
The effects typically last several years. Many patients choose
to "touch-up" their teeth every 6 to 12 months by applying
the treatment once or twice. "Touch-ups" are especially
useful for patients that drink beverages that stain teeth, like
coffee, tea, and colas.
Are There Any Side-Effects?
Some patients may experience heightened tooth sensitivity
to cold, or mild tooth or gum sensitivity during treatment, but
these symptoms are only temporary and disappear within a few days.
For more information about teeth whitening, visit
the American Dental Association's web page.
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