Alice Yang Family Dentistry

General Tips

• For sensitive teeth avoid foods with citric acid. If sensitivity persists:
• Have patient call office immediately.
• Prescribe fluoride for alternate nights.
• Purple tray after bleaching session indicates presence of zinc in fillings.
• Keep bleach refrigerated (store standard bottles upside-down).
• Pregnant women should only bleach with the agreement of their physicians.
• Bleach upper arch first.
• Do not smoke, eat or drink with tray in place.
• Wait two weeks before doing crowns or fillings.

Ask About Tooth Whitening

How did my teeth get so yellow?

Over the years, like almost everyone, you've experienced a natural buildup of organic pigments on your teeth. Colorized proteins from coffee, tea, and other foods have simply darkened the natural whiteness of your teeth. The use of tobacco, antibiotics, and certain minerals usually speeds the darkening process. But, yellowing can be easily reversed.

Is whitening safe?

Whitening is gentle and safe when supervised by your dentist. In fact, dentist-supervised whitening has been done for nearly a century, but has increased in popularity in recent years as yellowed teeth are becoming less and less acceptable, both socially and professionally. Procedures have been simplified and shown to be safe.

What about those over the counter products?

The "boil-and-bite" trays used by the over-the-counter products overlap soft tissue producing more irritation. They also feel bulky in your mouth. This results in discomfort and possible TMJ problems.

• A dentist-designed tray is less bulky.
• It conforms more closely to the natural contours of the teeth, is far more comfortable, and assures a superior result.
• You'll find a significant difference in both the comfort and safety of dentist-designed trays vs. unsupervised over-the-counter, one-size-fits-all, "boil & bite" trays.

Who can use tooth whitening?

Nearly anyone ages nine to 90. If you want to obtain a more confident smile by improving the whiteness of your teeth, talk to us.

What if I have more questions?

Just ask your dentist. We'll be happy to refer you to a dentist in your area who is experienced with tooth whitening.

How long will whitening take?

You'll see results right away, usually within three days of starting the whitening process. The complete process normally takes between one and two weeks, but treatment times will vary depending on the source, type, and depth of the discoloration.

How does whitening work?

Your dentist will first check your teeth and gums to be sure that you begin the treatment in good dental health. Then your dentist will take an impression of your teeth in order to provide you with a custom fit plastic tray designed to hold the bleaching gel next to your teeth. Following the bleaching program your dentist suggests, you'll notice the results quickly, as the gentle oxygenating action of the gel begins to whiten your teeth. Your dentist may choose to begin with a short in-office bleaching session.

Is there any discomfort?

There is little, if any. Some patients might feel an increased sensitivity to cold, heat, or pressure during the whitening process, but this sensitivity ends a day or two after the treatment is completed. Any note of persistent discomfort should be reported to your dentist.

Will the whitening damage my teeth?

Not at all. The whitening process will not affect your enamel, tooth structure, bonding or restorations. Whitening acts only on the molecules that carry the discoloration.

How long will it last?

Non-smokers who don't drink coffee or tea often see little or no change over five years. But your own long-term results will depend on your habits and the specific foods you eat. Based on those variables, some patients may require a "touch-up" treatment at regular intervals.

What's the difference between dentist-supervised and over-the counter treatments?

There are many differences, starting with the fact that your teeth and your own dental situation are absolutely unique. Which is why the safety of your treatment requires a dentist's evaluation and supervision. You'll also find that custom trays designed by the dentist will fit better and will consequently expel far less bleaching gel than the unsupervised, over-the-counter, one-size-fits-all treatment alternatives.

What if I have more questions?

Just ask. Our office is well experienced in tooth whitening treatments, and we'll be happy to answer any questions you may have about the process or the results. Email us or give us a call at (203)265-0788

Key Benefits of bleaching

• Corrects browns, yellow and mottle tooth staining.
• Works on people of any age.
• Is a near permanent solution for a "dull" smile, restoring brightness and brings a smile alive.

Capabilities

An impression is taken to make a specialized "mouth guard" or "stent" to hold the bleach against the teeth. The material is used each night for about 3-4 hours for a week or two, and at the end of this time, a major smile whitening will occur. In some cases, the change is nothing short of brilliant. For confidence in appearance, bleaching technology allows us to promise improvements in yellowing, aging or stained teeth. For very severely stained teeth, crowns or veneers may be more appropriate.