Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that uses a medical-grade bleaching solution to remove stains from the surface of your teeth. The gel-like substance oxidizes the molecules within your tooth enamel, causing the stains to lighten, leaving you with a beautiful, refreshed-looking smile. There are various options available for whitening, including over-the-counter toothpastes, rinses, strips, gels, as well as professional treatments and take-home kits. However, the most effective and safest whitening solutions are those provided by dentists. These professional treatments use higher concentrations of whitening agents and are applied under expert supervision. While over-the-counter products may work for individuals with healthy teeth and gums, they can be harmful if there are any underlying dental issues.

Your teeth can lose their whiteness, become dull in appearance, or discolored for various reasons, including:

Change to the color of your teeth also occurs as you age. Your enamel wears down, which reveals the dentin layer of your teeth, which is yellowish in color.

When you come into the practice for your outpatient teeth-whitening procedure, the team has you comfortably sit in a dental chair. They then apply a whitening gel into a tray that fits on your teeth. The process works in 15-20 minute increments while your provider points a blue light at your teeth, triggering the process. Your provider repeats this action several times until you reach your desired whiteness. The overall procedure only takes about an hour.

Dr. Trogan also provides professional-strength, at-home treatments. They include the trays and the bleaching solution that you wear on your own schedule. You can achieve the same whiteness you get at an appointment at the practice, but it takes longer. You can also use the at-home treatments for touch-ups.

Results typically last about four to six months, but you can make them last longer when you practice good oral hygiene, plus other healthy habits.
They include:

You should also visit Signature Smile General & Cosmetic Dentistry every six months for routine cleanings. Your hygienist uses a professional-grade abrasive toothbrush to remove any stains that might’ve developed since your last visit.

To schedule your professional teeth whitening treatment, call the office or book your appointment online.