Teeth whitening is a safe, fast and easy process that is effective for almost everyone. There are certain dental or health problems that may disqualify an individual from getting this procedure. Dentists evaluate each patient's teeth and smile to determine whether whitening is right for the patient. In these cases a dentist may recommend a different cosmetic procedure, which may better meet a patient's expectations. Prior to any procedure, a dentist conducts a thorough exam of an individual's oral health. He/She examines the gums and takes x-rays during the initial visit. If an individual qualifies for the teeth whitening procedure, he/she can schedule an appointment for the teeth whitening procedure.

Q - How long does it take for a procedure?

A - This depends on which whitening procedure a patient chooses:

Laser teeth whitening takes maximum of 1.5 hours.

The procedure itself takes 45-50 minutes. A patient should expect to be in the dentist's chair for 45-50 minutes. The patient is recommended to allow an addition 30-40 minutes to make payments and talk with the dentists regarding post procedure maintenance. During this time the dentist explains the precautions to take to avoid any stress to the gums and teeth.

Custom Tray - The dentist takes an impression of the teeth and then provides a custom fit tray and the bleaching products to the patient to use at home. Depending on the condition of the teeth, a dentist recommends the number of hours and days the patient should use the tray. The dentist may suggest the patient to have the tray on for 2-3 hours a day for up to 4 weeks.

Q - How many dental visits does it require?

A - In-Office Teeth Whitening procedure requires only 1 visit.

At Home Teeth Whitening procedure - It requires a maximum of 3 visits. The 3rd visit may not necessary, but if there are any concerns, a patient should see his/her dentist.

The dentist takes an impression of the patient's teeth and on the following visit provides all the products, tools, and the custom tray to take home. If the patient wants to see the dentist afterwards, he/she can go to the office for a follow-up, but the 3rd visit may not be necessary.

Q - What are the various things I should keep in mind to get prepared for the procedure?

On the day of the teeth whitening appointment, it is highly recommended that a patient cleans his/her teeth thoroughly. Even though, the dentist will check and clean the teeth prior to the procedure, it can save time to be prepared.

Q - What does the dentist need to know about the patient?

A - The dentist should be informed of any and all medical conditions. This is necessary to avoid any complications that may occur during or after the procedure.

Q - What should i expect during the procedure?

A - Tools used for In-office laser bleaching - Laser light, a rubber shield, gel

In-office laser bleaching - The dentist examines the teeth and if the teeth are clean, he applies a polish to the teeth. To protect the gums from the effects of the bleaching, the dentist will apply either a gel to the gum tissue or use a rubber shield (which slides over the teeth) prior to treatment. The rubber shield not only protects the gums, but also pushes the lips away, so the laser only hits the teeth. After applying a carbon peroxide jelly (tastes like mint) on the teeth the dentist shines a light on the teeth for 3 cycles. Each cycle last approximately 15 minutes.

The procedure is safe and painless. While a patient is comfortably relaxing and watching TV, listening to your favorite music, or snoozing, the dentist transforms the teeth to great white color in just 50 minutes.

Q - Does the dentist use a laboratory for the procedure and is the cost of lab included in cost of the procedure?

A - The laser tooth whitening does not require a lab. The custom trays are made in the office as well and the total cost is included in the procedure.

Q - What do most people experience after the procedure?

A - The laser teeth whitening process is normally painless. Some people may experience little tooth sensitivity because the bleach dehydrates the teeth. It is best to avoid very cold or hot drinks for the first 24 hours. A very small percentage of people may experience a minor, dull ache following the procedure and dentist recommend taking Advil or Tylenol to ease the pain.

Q - Are there any prescriptions provided after the procedure?

A - Usually Advil or Tylenol is recommended to ease the minor aches or pains that a patient may experience following the procedure.

Q - What medical conditions would disqualify a person from getting a certain procedure?

A - It is very important that a patient informs of his/her medical condition to the dentist. It is not recommended for individuals who have braces, ill health, just completed gum surgery, have bad gums or decayed or sensitive teeth, exposed roots, jaw joint problems, colitis, ulcers, periodontal disease or allergies to any of the ingredients used for teeth whitening.

Q - How long do the results last?

A - Teeth whitening provides instant gratification, is painless, and has been able to achieve dramatic results in most patients. Laser teeth whitening results can last for about 2 years assuming good hygiene and reasonable exposure to staining foods and beverages. The results may vary depending on the type of stain, thickness of enamel, your age and personal habits. People should avoid foods and drinks that can cause discoloration, such as red wine, coffee, and smoking. Everything should be taken in moderation.

Things to keep in mind:

a. Custom tray whitening - The dentist provides a gel to protect the gums from getting in contact with the bleaching product. It is important not to over fill the tray with the whitening jelly, which can cause some gum irritation. Even though, it goes away after few days it is safe to follow the dentist's instructions.

b. While results may vary, whitening procedures are generally not designed for caps, veneers or bonds. Depending on the patient's dental condition, a dentist may recommend to perform teeth whitening procedure prior to putting a crown or a cap. Usually a temporary crown or a cap is put on to the tooth during the teeth whitening procedure. The permanent crown or a cap is placed which matches the color of the teeth after the whitening procedure.