In-office bleaching is the fastest and most effective way to whiten teeth. With this process, the whitening product is applied directly to the patient’s teeth. This process may include the use of heat, a special light, and/or a laser. These tools help to accelerate the whitening process. In order to achieve dramatic results, several appointments will usually be needed. However, with laser-enhanced bleaching, dramatic results can be seen after the first treatment.

Whitening is not permanent, and people who expose their teeth to smoking, and foods or beverages that cause staining may see the whiteness start to fade in as little as 1 month. People who stay away from these things may be able to last up to a year or even longer before another whitening treatment or touch-up is needed.

The degree of whiteness will vary from individual to individual. Depending upon the condition of the teeth, nature of the stain, and whether or not an individual is a smoker, can all be factors.

Call Columbia Dental at (860) 645-0111 to find out if the whitening process is right for you.

Keeping Teeth White

• Avoid foods and/or beverages that can cause stains to your teeth.
• After consuming stain-causing beverages or foods, brush or rinse immediately.
• Practice good oral hygiene.
• Use a whitening toothpaste to remove surface stains once a week. This can also help to reduce and prevent yellowing.
• You may need periodic touch-up treatments.
• Avoid tobacco products and smoking.