Consultation
Schedule a consultation at your dentist's office or with someone she recommends when you decide to have your teeth whitened at a dental office. During this consultation, your dental health will be evaluated. If you have gum disease, tooth sensitivity, worn enamel and tooth restorations, you may not be a candidate for teeth whitening. If you are a candidate, a custom mouth tray will be created for you using a mold of your mouth. The mouth guard will protect your lips and gums from the bleaching solution.
Bleaching Solution Application
A bleaching gel will be applied to the teeth that you wish to whiten once your mouth guard is ready for use. Professional teeth whitening is typically performed only on the front teeth. Since the gums and lips do not come into contact with the bleaching solution, the back teeth are typically not professional treated.
The bleaching gel can be removed after being on the teeth for a set time determined by the dentist. A professional whitening session typically lasts between 30 and 60 minutes depending on the severity of your tooth discoloration. Although you may notice results after the initial session, multiple appointments are typically required to get the full effect.
Laser Whitening
Laser whitening can produce quicker results since the laser can penetrate tooth enamel. Before the dental professional removes the gel, a laser light is used to activate the crystals inside the bleaching gel.
