Teeth Whitening Specialist

What Are The Reasons People Get Their Teeth Whitened?

The main reason that people get their teeth whitened is simply because they are not happy with the way their smile looks. When teeth are dark, yellowish or dirty looking, it can prevent you from feeling confident enough to smile. There are several reasons that teeth may darken. In some cases, teeth get darker as a person ages. People who have been exposed to excess levels of fluoridation during the development of their adult teeth may suffer from darkened teeth, as well. Sometimes, medications can cause teeth darkening, especially antibiotics like tetracycline. Drinking coffee, tea, and brown sodas are all common causes for teeth darkening. Nicotine use is another reason for teeth discoloration.

What is the Process for Custom Teeth Whitening?

Custom teeth whitening typically takes place over two separate visits to the dentist's office. At the initial appointment, the dentist will create molds of your teeth. The molds will then go to a laboratory where clear plastic trays matching the dimensions of your mouth are fabricated. During the second dental appointment, the dentist will have you try the plastic trays on to be sure they fit properly. You'll be provided with a whitening solution to take home along with your plastic trays. You'll then use the whitening solution two times daily for half an hour, or as you sleep -- this depends on how much whitening needs to be done. You'll continue this routine for about two weeks. After that time, there will typically be a very significant lightening of the teeth.

How Much Whiter Can Your Teeth Get?

This will vary by patient. Most people can expect to achieve anywhere from two to eight shades of teeth whitening. It is important that you discuss your whitening goal with Dr. Jeon so that he can create the ideal whitening routine for you.