Teeth Whitening
Green Bay, WI
 The way that your teeth look plays a major role in the quality of your smile. When they are dull and discolored, an otherwise perfect smile can be dragged down, affecting both its quality as well as your confidence. These issues can affect the way that others see you. At Bay Lakes Center for Complex Dentistry, we can give you back your beautiful bright white smile with teeth whitening.
Eliminating Discoloration with Teeth Whitening
Teeth have a naturally bright white color. However, there are many different factors that can cause them to become discolored. These factors include such things as the foods and beverages you consume, lifestyle habits like smoking and other tobacco products, certain types of medication, and even your age. Teeth whitening is a procedure that is designed to eliminate these stains from your teeth, restoring their natural, bright white beauty along with your confidence. If there significant tooth decay we may need to look at options like crowns, dental veneers, inlays and onlays, or cosmetic reconstruction.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
There are two ways in which your teeth can be professionally whitened. We can perform an in-office procedure, often referred to as chairside whitening, or provide you with whitening trays. Chairside whitening takes only one visit and about an hour of your time. First, your teeth are cleaned. Next, a lip retractor is placed in your mouth, and a protective gel is applied to your gums. We then apply the whitening agent and shine a light over your mouth. The active ingredient breaks down, forming tiny oxygen bubbles. These bubbles enter into your enamel and your dentin clinging to stains and bleaching them away. Chairside whitening can whiten your teeth several shades with visible results right away.
Your other option is whitening trays. This type of whitening allows you to brighten your smile in the comfort of your own home. Trays are created from impressions of your mouth. They are designed to hold the whitening gel against the surfaces of your teeth. They should be worn twice a day for a few hours each time or once overnight while you sleep. Depending on your needs and your goals, treatment typically takes one to two weeks, with results beginning to show in just under a week.
Can I Use Over the Counter Products?
You have most likely seen the vast array of whitening products available in the oral care section of your local supermarket. There are toothpaste, strips, gels, pens, and more. All of these products claim to brighten your smile in no time at all. However, the whitening agents in these products are relatively low, meaning that it can take several applications and several weeks to even see a minor change. They can often be useful for minor surface stains, but if you want more drastic results, professional whitening will provide you with the best results possible.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Yes, teeth whitening is completely safe. It may, however, cause some sensitivity during your treatment. This sensitivity is only temporary. It can often be managed with a toothpaste designed to combat sensitivity. Once your treatment is over, the sensitivity should disappear.
Maintaining Your Smile
The results of whitening, while incredible, are not permanent. Your teeth can become stained again. There are ways to help the results last as long as possible.
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Limit foods and liquids that stain.
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Quit smoking.
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Drink plenty of water.
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Brush and floss daily.
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Have your teeth periodically touched up. |
With teeth whitening, we can restore the brightness of your smile, giving you back your confidence. Call Bay Lakes Center for Complex Dentistry at (920) 278-7678 today for more information and to find out just what teeth whitening can do for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is teeth whitening safe?
Teeth whitening is generally considered safe when performed under the guidance of a dental professional like Dr. Hallas or when using reputable at-home whitening products according to their instructions. Overuse or misuse of whitening products can potentially lead to side effects such as tooth sensitivity or gum irritation.
Can anyone get their teeth whitened?
In general, most people can undergo teeth whitening procedures. However, it's essential to consult with a dental professional before starting any whitening regimen, especially if you have pre-existing dental conditions such as gum disease, tooth decay, or highly sensitive teeth. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should also consult with their healthcare provider before undergoing teeth whitening treatments. Overall, a dental professional can assess your oral health and determine the most suitable whitening option for you.
How long does the teeth whitening procedure take?
Various whitening methods exist, with our in-office professional whitening utilizing hydrogen or carbamide peroxide coupled with UV light to expedite the process, saving time and effort compared to at-home treatments.
We provide swift, professional teeth whitening services, but also recognize the value of at-home solutions tailored to individual needs.
For those seeking the quickest route to a dramatically brighter smile in just one session, reach out to us at (920) 278-7678 to schedule your teeth whitening treatment today.
Does teeth whitening cause sensitivity?
Teeth whitening can cause sensitivity in some individuals, especially those with pre-existing tooth sensitivity or enamel wear. The active ingredients in whitening products, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, can temporarily penetrate the enamel and irritate the nerve endings inside the tooth, leading to sensitivity. However, this sensitivity is usually mild and transient, resolving within a few days after completing the whitening treatment. Using desensitizing toothpaste or consulting with a dental professional can help manage any discomfort experienced during or after whitening.
If you're using a home whitening kit, it's essential to buffer the bleach with a desensitizing agent like potassium nitrate. This will help reduce any sensitivity you experience while whitening your teeth. Be sure to follow the instructions that come with your kit for the best results.
If you're using a home whitening kit that includes hydrogen peroxide, it's important to buffer the bleach with baking soda. This will help to reduce the risk of sensitivity. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with every four teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide and brush your teeth with this mixture twice daily.
Are there side effects of teeth whitening?
There can be side effects to teeth whitening, though they are typically mild and temporary. Common side effects include tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, along with gum irritation. These effects usually subside shortly after the whitening treatment is completed. However, overuse or misuse of whitening products can potentially lead to more severe side effects, such as enamel damage or uneven tooth coloration. It's essential to follow professional guidance and manufacturer instructions to minimize the risk of adverse effects and achieve safe, effective results. |
GREEN BAY (920) 278-7678
