There are many products and techniques available for patients who want to achieve a brighter smile, and with so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the method that is right for you. The best way to begin any teeth-whitening regimen is to schedule an appointment and talk to your doctor about the differences between in-office professional whitening and at-home whitening.
IN-OFFICE TEETH WHITENING
The first professional option is commonly referred to as in-office whitening. This procedure is performed in a dental office. During an appointment, your dental professional will apply a whitening gel to the surface of your teeth. The entire office visit generally takes about 90 minutes and you will be able to see results immediately.
AT-HOME TEETH WHITENING
- TRAY WHITENING
Tray bleaching is a type of professional whitening that uses custom-made trays and whitening gel only available through your dentist. The whitening gel is placed in custom-fitted trays that fit perfectly over your teeth. As the peroxide in the gel breaks down, hydroxyradicals help whiten stained teeth. Unlike strips, this process whitens all your natural teeth and may contain ingredients intended to provide maximum comfort. At-home professional tray whitening generally takes ten to 14 days, although you may notice results in as little as three to five days.
- PAINT-ON TEETH WHITENERS
There are many over-the-counter teeth whitening options, and one type of readily accessible whitening products is commonly referred to as a “paint-on” teeth whitener. Paint-on whiteners can be purchased over-the-counter and generally are less expensive and less effective than whitening strips or professional options. Paint-on teeth whiteners consist of a gel that is applied to the tooth using a small brush. Paint-on whitening gel hardens into a film that coats the teeth, and dissolves in the mouth. As with any teeth-whitening regimen, it is wise to consult with a dental professional before use.
- TEETH-WHITENING STRIPS
Teeth-whitening strips are thin, flexible plastic (polyethylene) strips with a thin film of hydrogen peroxide on one side. Whitening strip kits come with two types of strips: strips for the upper teeth and strips for the lower teeth. The whitening agent is applied by placing the strips across your teeth and gently pressing the strips to ensure contact with all your teeth. Teeth-whitening strips are typically worn for 30 minutes a day, twice a day. The duration of treatment will vary.
- WHITENING TOOTHPASTE AND MOUTHWASH
The least expensive options are whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes. Designed to have “whitening” capabilities, toothpastes and mouthwashes work to remove surface stains using mild abrasives. However, unlike the materials used in professional whitening procedures, these products do not lighten the actual color shade of the tooth. Whitening toothpastes affect surface stains and will mildly lighten your teeth.
If you would like to learn more about teeth whitening, please contact our practice to schedule an appointment.
KÖR WHITENING
YOU DESERVE A BRIGHT, WHITE SMILE, REGARDLESS OF YOUR AGE. KÖR® WHITENING DEEP BLEACHING SYSTEM CAN RESTORE THE BEAUTY OF YOUR SMILE IN JUST TWO WEEKS, WITH RESULTS THAT CAN LAST A LIFETIME.
Over many years, stains from foods can work their way deep into the enamel of your teeth. KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching System provides a thorough removal of these stains from your enamel, rejuvenating your teeth with amazing whiteness. This happens by restoring your teeth's ability to absorb oxygen. Oxygen from the KöR whitening gel is absorbed deeply into the tooth, dissolving stains at the molecular level. Discover the benefits of KöR Whitening!
- KöR Whitening is the only recognized system in the world that will whiten tetracycline (dark) stained teeth, previously thought to be impossible.
- With easy periodic at-home maintenance, your teeth will stay white permanently even while you continue to drink red wine, tea, and coffee.
- During the whitening process, nearly all patients experience low to no tooth sensitivity.
- Teeth whitening has been clinically proven to be entirely safe for teeth and gums, so there is no need to worry about harming your smile.
THE KÖR WHITENING PROCESS
During your visit to our office, we will make a mold of your teeth and create a set of thin, form-fitting, ultra-comfortable KöR Whitening Trays. You only need to wear your trays, filled with KöR patented bleaching gel, while you sleep, so they won't interfere with your lifestyle. With a final in-office whitening session, your treatment will be complete and your smile will be the ideal shade of white that's just right for you.
(503) 590-4300
- 15125 SW Beard Rd
- Beaverton, OR 97007