Get a Brighter Smile with Lakewood Dental
Teeth whitening is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment that can change the color of your natural tooth enamel and enhance the beauty of your smile.
All About Teeth Whitening
Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern in our office, there are several ways to whiten teeth. The most popular method is using a home teeth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically.
Since teeth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate the replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.
Teeth whitening is not permanent. A touch-up may be needed every several years and more often if you smoke or drink coffee, tea, or wine.
Reasons for Teeth Whitening
- Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development)
- Normal wear of outer tooth layer
- Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.)
- Yellow, brown stained teeth
The Teeth Whitening Process
This type of teeth whitening usually requires two visits. At the first appointment, we'll take detailed impressions of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic trays.
You will try on the trays for a proper fit at your second appointment, and we'll make adjustments if necessary.
You'll wear the trays with a special whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks, depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.
It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity while whitening your teeth, but it will subside after you have stopped bleaching.
You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays and be encouraged to visit our office regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.
Lumibrite 1-Hour Whitening
A pearly-white smile is beautiful to look at and can significantly improve self-confidence. Many people are opting for Lumibrite Chairside Whitening System for fast, safe, and effective teeth whitening.
Lumibrite combines the newest advances in dental technology with proven chemical formulas. This ensures that your bleaching experience is painless and the results are satisfying.
There are many reasons teeth become stained or discolored, including tobacco use and drinking dark liquids such as red wine, coffee, tea, and cola. However, the natural aging process and prescription medication can also cause yellowing and graying.
The Lumibrite Whitening Difference
Hundreds of whitening treatments are available in the marketplace, including take-home strips, bleaching toothpaste, and take-home whitening gels. Many take-home gels are ineffective and may not give you the bright white results you’re looking for.
Lumibrite has many advantages over these other treatments, including:
- All teeth are treated simultaneously
- Faster treatment times
- Longer lasting results
- Reduced sensitivity
- Removal of stains on crowns, veneers, and other restorations
- Safe procedure and treatment
- Treatments are performed by an experienced professional
It’s important to consult with Drs. Thompson and Amann before beginning a bleaching regime. Women who are pregnant or lactating should not seek bleaching treatment.
The Lumibrite Whitening Process
Before treatment, you'll have a consultation where our doctor and hygienist will outline your exact procedure. On treatment day, we'll do a deep cleaning (prophylaxis) to rid the teeth of debris and plaque.
Then, you'll put on special eyewear to protect your eyes from the halide light and splash guards to protect your clothing from the bleaching agent. Here’s a brief overview of the Lumibrite procedure:
- We'll use cheek retractors to expose the entire surface of the teeth.
- The gums will be painted or covered to reduce sensitivity.
- Dr. Thompson or Dr. Amann will apply the whitening gel to the teeth.
- The halide light will then be applied to activate the gel. This specialized Lumibrite light can be positioned to work on all the teeth simultaneously.
- After 15 minutes, Dr. Thompson or Dr. Amann will remove the gel from the teeth, and you'll rinse your mouth.
- Dr. Thompson or Dr. Amann will apply more gel for another 15 minutes.
- Again, we will remove the gel and thoroughly clean your mouth.
- Dr. Thompson or Dr. Amann will apply the final treatment of gel for 15 minutes.
- We will remove the gel for the final time.
How Lumibrite Works
Lumibrite is a bleaching process that lightens the dentin and enamel of the teeth. Lumibrite contains a hydrogen peroxide component (25%), which is the active ingredient in the gel.
When we apply the hydrogen peroxide to the teeth, the peroxide component breaks down into tiny oxygen bubbles that eliminate yellowing and staining.
A mercury metal halide light activates the gel and expedites the whitening process. This specialized light contains a unique infrared filter that reduces the heat and sensitivity on the surface of your teeth during the procedure. The internal structure of the teeth remains completely healthy and intact during and after the treatment.
As with any whitening system, post-treatment results vary according to the degree of staining and condition of your teeth. A consultation with Drs. Thompson and Amann before treatment will provide information on what kind of results Lumibrite can provide in your unique case.
We only use Lumibrite on healthy teeth and gums at Lakewood Dental. If tooth decay or gum disease is an issue, these must be treated before your bleaching treatment.
What to Expect After Treatment
The same external factors that caused the initial discoloration can quickly work their way back onto the teeth. For this reason, we recommend flossing once a day, thorough cleaning with anti-sensitivity toothpaste twice a day, and occasional retreatment with Lumibrite Weekender.
These post-treatment measures will ensure that the smile stays at its whitest for a long time. If you have questions about Lumibrite Chairside System, contact our office and we’ll help you get the shining smile you deserve.