Modern Family Dental
Teeth Whitening
Having a white, bright smile can do wonders for your self-confidence, and we are happy to help. We provide patients with the most advanced teeth whitening options including the state-of-the-art Zoom whitening system for superior results that last.
What causes teeth to become yellowed and discolored?
Teeth can become discolored for many reasons. Some causes affect the top layers of teeth – the translucent enamel and the underlying dentin, which provides teeth with their whitish coloration. Tobacco use – both smoking and smokeless, dark-colored beverages like red wine, coffee and tea, and some foods like dark-colored berries can all cause staining in these layers, and stains can usually be removed with teeth whitening treatments. Deeper staining in the interior portion of the tooth can be caused by trauma, infection or decay, some chronic diseases and long-term use of certain medications. Deeper staining may not respond to bleaching and may require bonding or veneers to correct.
How is teeth whitening performed?
Teeth whitening can be done at home using special whitening kits that we can provide, or it can be performed in a single office visit using the Zoom whitening system. Zoom uses special whitening agents made especially for use by dentists, combined with a light system that helps activate the whitening agents so they can penetrate more deeply and more consistently for better, longer-lasting results. Some patients have Zoom performed in the office and perform touch-up treatments using the take-home kits.
Will teeth whitening make my teeth sensitive?
Some patients may experience sensitivity during whitening treatment, but the effects will resolve soon after treatment has ended. The sensitivity is not permanent.
How long do the results of teeth whitening last?
Professional whitening with the Zoom system last about four to six months or sometimes a little longer, depending on your personal habits – that is, how often you consume dark-colored foods or beverages, whether or not you use tobacco products and how well you brush your teeth. The results obtained from take-home kits don’t last as long as the results from Zoom professional whitening treatments.