Teeth Whitening: An Overview
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular treatments in cosmetic dentistry. Practically anyone can benefit from teeth whitening, a quick and affordable way to improve the esthetics of your smile.
Tooth enamel darkens naturally over time. Exposure to dark foods and beverages or tobacco use can accelerate changes in the color of your teeth. In addition, certain medications, childhood illnesses, or improper oral hygiene can lead to tooth discoloration.
Dr. Raj Upadya of the Metropolitan Center for Complete Dentistry in East Hanover, NJ, offers convenient options for restoring your natural, bright smile with teeth whitening.
Teeth Whitening Pros and Cons Infographic
Teeth Whitening: What to Expect
There are many over-the-counter options for teeth whitening, including whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels. Professional treatment is still the best choice for patients who want the best results.
Dr. Upadya offers teeth whitening systems with custom-fit trays to ensure even whitening of teeth. In addition, our products are specially formulated to reduce tooth sensitivity, a common side effect of whitening.
Zoom! Teeth Whitening
Zoom! Teeth Whitening is one of the most popular technologies for in-office teeth whitening. Zoom teeth whitening is completed in our office in less than an hour and produces instant results up to 8 shades lighter.
Zoom teeth whitening is great for special events such as weddings, graduations, and job interviews. In-office tooth whitening can also provide a great “jump start” to at-home teeth whitening treatment.
Zoom teeth whitening uses a professional bleaching gel activated using a special lighting system. The gel penetrates the teeth to lighten stains and discoloration. The whole process should only take an hour at our East Hanover, NJ, area cosmetic dentist office.
Zoom whitening is gentle and effective. While some patients report tooth sensitivity immediately following the procedure, they typically can eat and drink normally within hours of the procedure.
At-Home Teeth Whitening
Some patients prefer the convenience of professional at-home teeth whitening kits. Our at-home teeth whitening system includes a custom-fit bleaching tray and special bleaching gel. Dr. Upadya will create custom bleaching trays to fit perfectly against your teeth and gums.
These customized trays ensure that the bleaching gel will be administered evenly and properly without causing damage to the gums or tooth enamel.
At-home teeth whitening treatment takes place over several weeks where the trays are worn either during the day or overnight, depending on the patient, for a set amount of time.
Touch-up products are available to maintain your brighter, whiter smile.
Other Options for Teeth Whitening
Unfortunately, some people have teeth that will not respond to these teeth whitening methods. Dr. Upadya may suggest other cosmetic dentistry procedures such as dental crowns or porcelain veneers for those patients.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
How much does teeth whitening cost?
Teeth whitening is one of the most affordable cosmetic dentistry treatments available. The cost of your whitening treatment will depend on the type of whitening you choose and your desired outcome. Contact our office for more specific details.
Will bleaching cause my teeth to be more sensitive?
One of the more common side effects of teeth whitening is tooth sensitivity. Dr. Upadya carefully supervises teeth whitening treatments to ensure minimal side effects. The products we use are specially formulated to virtually eliminate sensitivity.
How long does whitening last?
The results of teeth whitening will vary based on each individual. Most patients can expect Zoom teeth whitening to last up to a year or more. Touch-up treatment every four to six months can help extend the results of your treatment. Visiting the dentist regularly and avoiding smoking and dark foods will also help to keep your teeth white and bright.
Will teeth whitening permanently whiten my teeth?
No. Even professional teeth whitening can not offer permanent whitening results. Teeth whitening can last a long time but is not permanent. You must follow up with more treatments to keep the brightness for a long time.
Are there permanent alternatives to teeth whitening?
Yes. Dental veneers are an excellent, permanent solution for teeth whitening, especially for those teeth with deep dark stains that do not go away after teeth whitening. Porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant and stay bright for years with proper dental hygiene.
What can you not do after teeth whitening?
After teeth whitening, we recommend avoiding food and drinks likely to stain, such as coffee, wine, soda, etc. We also recommend cutting out any smoking or use of tobacco products, as these will make your whitening effects wear off quickly.
Are you looking for a dentist who offers teeth whitening options in the East Hanover, NJ, area? Dr. Upadya offers his patients many cosmetic dentistry treatments to whiten teeth, including the Zoom teeth whitening system. We gladly welcome new patients. Call us today at (973) 287-3153 or schedule an appointment online.