There are two ways patients can choose to bleach their teeth: home or office bleaching. Home bleaching involves the fabrication of plastic mouthpieces that look like protective sport mouth guards. The patient wears these mouthpieces with a hydrogen peroxide based bleach for two to four hours a day for four to eight days.

Office bleaching is much simpler for patients though a little more expensive. Patients typically come in for one thirty to forty-five minute appointment. There are no shots or drilling — patients commonly relax watching TV and listening to music during the procedure. Color changes are readily apparent after the first visit. We've been doing this procedure for several years and have found it to be both safe and effective.

Important Note: Only natural tooth structure responds to bleaching — fillings and porcelain will NOT bleach. Post-Bleaching Instructions: It is common for teeth to be sensitive for a few days. Use a Fluoride mouthwash several times a day for the week following bleaching. Avoid tobacco, coffee, tea and dark colored sodas and staining foods.