Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.

Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth. The most popular method is using a home teeth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically. Since teeth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

Teeth whitening is not permanent. A touch-up may be needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.

Reasons for teeth whitening:

Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).
Normal wear of outer tooth layer.
Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.).
Yellow, brown stained teeth.

What does teeth whitening involve?

We currently have 3 options for teeth whitening:

1) In-office whitening - This type of teeth whitening is best for immediate results and the best part is that it will only take one visit and a couple of hours. Your teeth will be 2-4 shades lighter.

2) Custom whitening trays - This type of teeth whitening usually requires two visits. At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear, plastic, trays.

At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary. The trays are worn with a special whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.

3) Take-home whitening trays - For this option, we recommend Opalescence Go. Our doctor has personally tried it and it worked for him, that's why we are recommending it to our patients. It comes in a box of 10 pairs of upper and lower trays and it is to be used 15-30mins daily for a total of 10 days. It is great for people who experience more sensitivity with whitening products such as when using Crest Strips.

For all the options, patients might experience sensitivity to a certain degree but it should subside a few days after they have stopped bleaching.

Testimonials

Ira Spiro has been my dentist for 17 years. He is an excellent doctor. In addition to being a knowledgeable expert, he is conscientious and easy to talk to. He takes his time to talk through options and LISTEN to my concerns. While using up-to-date techniques in a modern office, his personal, friendly manner hearkens back to a less-rushed, less corporate era of family dentists.

Mitch R.

I have been a patient of Dr. Spiro’s for over 15 years. My wife and 3 children are also his patients. I’ve been very pleased with his work and of his staff. For example, last year, I needed a root canal and a crown. During an office visit, Dr. Spiro thoroughly explained to me in language I could understand why I needed the work done. He also described my options in terms of costs and his recommendation on when the work should be done. His staff also worked with my insurance carrier so I could anticipate what my costs would be for the entire procedure. I felt I was part of the decision process and was very satisfied with the outcome.

I appreciate Dr. Spiro’s honesty and his ability to explain things so I can understand them. He has also been very flexible accommodating my busy schedule. I trust him and his staff to take care of my entire family’s dental needs.

Peter A.